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Google AI Overviews follow up questions jump you directly to AI Mode
This will result in less traffic to your site and more traffic to Google's AI Mode. Plus, Gemini 3 is now powering all AI Overviews globally by default.
Health care stocks rocked by proposed Medicare Advantage rates
The proposal threatens revenue and margins in a core profit engine for major health insurers.
Scientists engineer unsinkable metal tubes
The superhydrophobic design of unsinkable metal tubes could lead to resilient ships, floating platforms, and renewable energy innovations.
Data Science as Engineering: Foundations, Education, and Professional Identity
Recognize data science as an engineering practice and structure education accordingly.
HHS has new vaccine rules. They're doomed to fail.
Trying to import Denmark's vaccine schedule into the United States is like bolting a jet engine onto a toy plane.
Scientists say quantum tech has reached its transistor moment
Quantum technology has reached a turning point, echoing the early days of modern computing. Researchers say functional quantum systems now exist, but scaling them into truly powerful machines will require major advances in engineering and manufacturing. By comparing different quantum platforms, the study reveals both impressive progress and steep challenges ahead. History suggests the payoff could be enormous—but not immediate.
Beyond the Box: How West Entertainment is Re-Engineering the IFEC Ecosystem
As the IFE industry pivots toward a dynamic, data-driven, and rights-aware content ecosystem, West Entertainment is positioning itself as a technical bridge between airlines and the latest technology.
2026 Hill Prizes for Texas science, technology, health announced
The seven $500,000 awards from Texas Academy of Medicine, Engineering, Science and Technology in collaboration with Lyda Hill Philanthropies will support top researchers to drive groundbreaking innovations across the state....
Business jet with 8 on board crashes during takeoff in Maine
The condition of the eight was unavailable. The twin-engine jet took off from Bangor airport when it went down, according to the FAA.
6 Performance Cars You Probably Didn't Know Used Yamaha Engines
Yamaha is renowned for its high-performance motorcycles, but lesser known is the legendary builder has also put together some impressive car engines.
Scientists Just Created Tiny Earthquakes Inside a Microchip
Engineers have learned how to create tiny earthquakes on a microchip—and it could change how smartphones are built.
Business Notes for Jan. 25, 2026
The Gazette's Business Notes is a compendium of the week's promotions, new hires, certifications, added business lines and business events, among other items, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa City and the rest of the Corridor.
What's The Biggest Difference Between Ford's Coyote And GM's LS Engines?
The biggest differences between Ford's Coyote and GM's LS engines are their camshaft locations and their sizes. The Ford engines also produce more horsepower.
Rolex 24 brings record-breaking attendance and economic boost to Daytona Beach
The roar of engines isn’t the only thing turning heads in Daytona Beach this weekend. Record-breaking crowds for the Rolex 24 are bringing new energy and dollars to the local economy.
Engineering, computer science programs rank among world’s best
In the 2026 Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject, the university's engineering program is ranked 85th in the world, while the computer science program is listed in the 101-125 range.
This startup will send 1,000 people's ashes to space -- affordably -- in 2027
Started by an engineer who worked on the space shuttle program, and at Blue Origin, Space Beyond has a spot on a 2027 Falcon 9 flight.
The challenges facing Alpine ahead of F1 2026
It’s a new era at Alpine, after Renault’s engine programme ended
Epic and Google have a secret $800 million Unreal Engine and services deal
Epic disputes that it impacts their ongoing antitrust dispute.
Microsoft Teams to add brand impersonation warnings to calls
Microsoft will soon add new fraud protection features to Teams calls, warning users about external callers who attempt to impersonate trusted organizations in social engineering attacks.
Alarm as US mulls prioritising citizens in research funding
A senior White House official said the Trump administration is considering ways to prioritise research funding to American citizens, triggering alarm in the research community that the country could destroy its century-long status as a magnet for overseas talent.Michael Kratsios, director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), said last week that it is “important for us to continue to emphasise the use of federal R&D dollars towards American scientists and technologists that are staffed by Americans in their labs.” Asked about support for Chinese students during a Congressional hearing, Kratsios went on to say that in future funding announcements, the OSTP would “emphasise” that “we're funding American students.”The precise meaning of his impromptu comments, and what they could mean in policy terms, isn’t yet clear. The OSTP did not respond to multiple requests for clarification from Science|Business.But given that US science and technology has relied on overseas talent for the past century, Kratsios’s words have alarmed former US science officials.Immigrants have made up around 30-40% of US Nobel Prize winners since the 1940s, for example. Except for some sensitive projects, countries typically grant research funding on a nationality-blind basis, lest they deter foreign scientists from immigrating. “If director Kratsios’s statements are taken literally and become official policy of the White House, [research-intensive] universities will likely have to close labs if not entire research divisions,” said David Biggs, a former science and technology official in the US State Department. In their most extreme interpretation, Kratsios’s comments would imply that foreign scientists established in the US would see access to funding curtailed. This would “result in many world-leading professors who work in the United States in fields that this administration considers a priority (like fusion energy, artificial intelligence, and quantum computing) leaving the country,” said Cole Donovan, a former US science diplomat, and now associate director at the Federation of American Scientists.CripplingHowever, given the context of the conversation, Kratsios may have been referring more narrowly to funding for doctoral or postdoctoral students. At the hearing, he said he wanted to see labs staffed by US citizens. But even this would have devastating consequences for the US science system, say former officials, because the country is so dependent on early-career foreign researchers. Recent statistics show that nearly half of those in the US with a PhD in science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM) are considered short-term visitors, or non-residents in the official terminology. If this included residents who are not yet citizens, the proportion would likely be even higher. “Foreign PhD students are really a significant and core part of the university STEM workforce, and postdocs is similarly large,” said Donovan. Preventing US-based academics from hiring them from overseas would be a serious blow, he said. “If it's the case that this administration intends to limit funding to labs staffed only with US citizens, the effect will be to cripple the American scientific enterprise,” said Chris Marcum, a former OSTP official. “To think that these researchers can simply be replaced is a pipe dream. The labs will close,” said Marcum. Go elsewhereAround half of US-trained postdocs are foreign-born, said Biggs. “If these top international students cannot get funding to do their research, or even if they hear that funding for foreign students has been greatly restricted and will be super competitive, they will no longer choose to study in the US and will go elsewhere.” It’s unclear for now if Kratsios’s comments will translate into a real policy shift. But they could add to turmoil in the US science system since Donald Trump took over as president one year ago. Related articlesNIH turmoil risks reciprocal EU-US access to health research fundingUS set to close office responsible for global science and technology dealsTrump halts new NIH grants to international health-research partnersSince then, nearly 8,000 grants at the National Institutes of Health and National Science Foundation have been frozen or terminated, Naturereports. Courts have overturned most of these cancellations, but the disruption caused remains significant. Both those agencies have also dished out around a quarter fewer grants this year than normal, the journal reported. International student enrolment is also down by 17%. The Trump administration also proposes to cut research budgets by around a third, although Congress may mollify the cuts.
Country leads the entertainment lineup
Jason Aldean leads the entertainment highlights coming to local and regional entertainment over the next couple of weeks. The country singer, set to release his 12th studio album “Songs About Us” in A...
Alarm over US plan to prioritise citizens in research funding
The US’s leading science official has said the country will focus its research spending on scientists with US citizenship, triggering alarm that the country could destroy its century-long status as a magnet for overseas talent.Michael Kratsios, director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP), said last week that it is “important for us to continue to emphasise the use of federal R&D dollars towards American scientists and technologists that are staffed by Americans in their labs.” Asked about support for Chinese students during a Congressional hearing, Kratsios went on to say that in future funding announcements, the OSTP would “emphasise” that “we're funding American students.”Kratsios’s precise meaning, and what it could mean in policy terms, isn’t yet clear. The OSTP did not respond to multiple requests for clarification from Science|Business.But given that US science and technology has relied on overseas talent for the past century, Kratsios’s words have stunned former US science officials.Immigrants have made up around 30-40% of US Nobel Prize winners since the 1940s, for example. Except for some sensitive projects, countries typically grant research funding on a nationality-blind basis, lest they deter foreign scientists from immigrating. “If director Kratsios’s statements are taken literally and become official policy of the White House, [research-intensive] universities will likely have to close labs if not entire research divisions,” said David Biggs, a former science and technology official in the US State Department. In their most extreme interpretation, Kratsios’s comments would imply that foreign scientists established in the US would see access to funding curtailed. This would “result in many world-leading professors who work in the United States in fields that this administration considers a priority (like fusion energy, artificial intelligence, and quantum computing) leaving the country,” said Cole Donovan, a former US science diplomat, and now associate director at the Federation of American Scientists.CripplingHowever, given the context of the conversation, Kratsios may have been referring more narrowly to funding for doctoral or postdoctoral students. At the hearing, he said he wanted to see labs staffed by US citizens. But even this would have devastating consequences for the US science system, say former officials, because the country is so dependent on early-career foreign researchers. Recent statistics show that nearly half of those in the US with a PhD in science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM) are considered short-term visitors, or non-residents in the official terminology. If this included residents who are not yet citizens, the proportion would likely be even higher. “Foreign PhD students are really a significant and core part of the university STEM workforce, and postdocs is similarly large,” said Donovan. Preventing US-based academics from hiring them from overseas would be a serious blow, he said. “If it's the case that this administration intends to limit funding to labs staffed only with US citizens, the effect will be to cripple the American scientific enterprise,” said Chris Marcum, a former OSTP official. “To think that these researchers can simply be replaced is a pipe dream. The labs will close,” said Marcum. Go elsewhereAround half of US-trained postdocs are foreign-born, said Biggs. “If these top international students cannot get funding to do their research, or even if they hear that funding for foreign students has been greatly restricted and will be super competitive, they will no longer choose to study in the US and will go elsewhere.” It’s unclear for now if Kratsios’s comments will translate into a real policy shift. But they could add to turmoil in the US science system since Donald Trump took over as president one year ago. Since then, nearly 8,000 grants at the National Institutes of Health and National Science Foundation have been frozen or terminated, Naturereports. Courts have overturned most of these cancellations, but the disruption caused remains significant. Both those agencies have also dished out around a quarter fewer grants this year than normal, the journal reported. International student enrolment is also down by 17%. The Trump administration also proposes to cut research budgets by around a third, although Congress may mollify the cuts.
Declining Science and Engineering R&D in Higher Education Threatens US Competitiveness
U.S. higher education plays a central role in science and engineering R&D, yet investment in these fields has declined over the past decade. This erosion threatens the future of U.S. technological leadership and its ability to compete with China.
A roadmap for decoding the sound of boiling
npj Thermal Science and Engineering - A roadmap for decoding the sound of boiling
Making large language models reliable data science programming copilots for biomedical research
Nature Biomedical Engineering - AI is a powerful tool for facilitating data science programming in biomedicine. This study benchmarks the performance of existing tools and introduces a reliable AI...
Scientists are building viruses from scratch to fight superbugs
Researchers from New England Biolabs (NEB®) and Yale University describe the first fully synthetic bacteriophage engineering system for Pseudomonas aeruginosa, an antibiotic-resistant bacterium of global concern, in a new PNAS study. The system is enabled by NEB’s High-Complexity Golden Gate Assembly (HC-GGA) platform. In this method, researchers engineer bacteriophages synthetically using sequence data rather than bacteriophage isolates.
OpenAI is hiring engineers, not ad sellers, first to build its ad business
OpenAI is still in the foothills of building an ads business, and its looking for ad execs to help map the climb.
Quantum spin resonance in engineered proteins for multimodal sensing
Nature - A recently developed class of magneto-sensitive fluorescent proteins are engineered to alter the properties of their response to magnetic fields and radio frequencies, enabling multimodal...
This new building material pulls carbon out of the air
A new building material developed by engineers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute could change how the world builds. Made using an enzyme that turns carbon dioxide into solid minerals, the material cures in hours and locks away carbon instead of releasing it. It’s strong, repairable, recyclable, and far cleaner than concrete. If adopted widely, it could slash emissions across the construction industry.
System76 Continues Driving More Improvements Into The COSMIC Desktop
Following the December launch of Pop!_OS 24.04 LTS and the first major COSMIC desktop release, System76 software engineers have continued making improvements to their Rust-based desktop environment.
Lego’s Education sets are expanding beyond the classroom.
The sets teach STEM concepts like programming, engineering, and now AI. They’re typically only sold to teachers and schools, but Lego’s Education division has created four new sets designed for learning at home. They’re launching today and are themed around space and animals [Image: https://platform.theverge.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/01/lego_education1.jpg?quality=90&strip=all] [Image: https://platform.theverge.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/01/lego_education2.jpg?quality=90&strip=all] [Image: https://platform.theverge.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/01/lego_education3.jpg?quality=90&strip=all] [Image: https://platform.theverge.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/01/lego_education4.jpg?quality=90&strip=all] [Image: https://platform.theverge.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/01/lego_education5.jpg?quality=90&strip=all] [Image: https://platform.theverge.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/01/lego_education6.jpg?quality=90&strip=all] [Image: https://platform.theverge.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/01/lego_education7.jpg?quality=90&strip=all] [Image: https://platform.theverge.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/01/lego_education8.jpg?quality=90&strip=all]
Diffuser Films Market Report 2026-2032: New Revenue Opportunities, Next-Generation Business Models, $3.78 Billion Industry Roadmap
Diffuser films enable thinner, brighter, sustainable lighting systems, with market shifts driven by precision engineering and sustainability Diffuser Films Market Diffuser Films Market Dublin, Jan. 19, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Diffuser Films Market - Global Forecast 2026-2032" has been added to ResearchAndMarkets.com's offering. The Diffuser Films Market has experienced significant growth, expanding from USD 2.48 billion in 2025 to USD 2.63 billion in 2026, with a projected growth at a CAGR
Looking ahead: New Jersey business leaders weigh in on 2026
NJBIZ surveyed New Jersey business leaders on growth, uncertainty and emerging tech as they share how they are preparing for 2026.
NJBIZ Looking Ahead 2026: Top business risks in New Jersey
New Jersey leaders share the biggest risks for 2026, including labor, supply chains, inflation, geopolitics, and energy challenges.
TECH & INNOVATION: When politics overrides engineering
Politics is based on projection. Engineering is based on tangible results...It would be better if the makers in the world supervised the storytellers, rather than the other way around.
NJBIZ Looking Ahead 2026: Lessons from 2025 shaping NJ business
New Jersey leaders say 2025 taught the value of adaptability, collaboration, planning and disciplined execution to drive success in 2026.
Footage of ZeniMax's Cancelled Project Blackbird Surfaces Online
Two minutes of in-engine footage of ZeniMax Online Studio's cancelled Project Blackbird has leaked online.
PC hardware is entering a golden age of design and engineering, while Windows — with its newfound AI obsession — has never felt worse. Something must change.
Microsoft's cramming of AI into every corner of Windows is alienating lifelong users and creating unnecessary frustration. Too bad it's happening as PC hardware is hitting its stride.
NL elementary students show off their science skills
A select group of Slatington Elementary students have been celebrated for putting their scientific skills to the test. Superintendent Dr. Matthew J. Link said at Monday’s school board meeting that he ...
This engineering firm turned wires and poles into a $500M business: "The grid is transforming."
"When the grid was built and regulations were written, it was to manage power delivery to schools, homes, business and factories. It wasn't shipping solar power across four states. We can be essential because we understand the engineering, labor and capital needs for projects like that."
10 breakthrough technologies to expect in 2026 : Short Wave
Wanna know where tech is headed this year? MIT Technology Review has answers. They compile an annual list called "10 Breakthrough Technologies". Today, host Regina G. Barber speaks with executive editor Amy Nordrum about the list, and they get into everything from commercial space stations and base-edited babies to batteries that could make electric vehicles even more green. We also do a lightning round of honorable mentions you won't want to miss out on!Check out the full list from MIT Technology Review.Interested in more science? Check out our episode on last year’s top 10 technologies to watch and our episode on building structures in space.Email us your questions at shortwave@npr.org.Listen to every episode of Short Wave sponsor-free and support our work at NPR by signing up for Short Wave+ at plus.npr.org/shortwave.This episode was produced by Berly McCoy. It was edited and fact-checked by Rebecca Ramirez. The audio engineer was Robert Rodriguez.
BP accused of ‘insidious’ influence on UK education through Science Museum links
Campaigners claim firm has bought sway over the teaching of science, technology, engineering and maths
Second Graders Code with Milo the Science Rover
Second graders explored hands-on learning in their Design, Technology and Engineering class
Ford’s New Mustang Dark Horse SC Is the Successor to the Shelby GT500
The new Ford Mustang Dark Horse SC is powered by a supercharged 5.2-liter V-8 engine and is the successor of the Shelby GT500.
The inventor of the CMOS camera sensor just won the "Nobel Prize of Engineering"
The godfather of the active-pixel CMOS sensor, Eric R Fossum, PhD, has been awarded the 2026 Charles Stark Draper Prize for Engineering
Scientists watch microscopic plant 'mouths' breathing in real time with palm-sized tool
Scientists say their Stomata In-Sight tool can observe plants "breathe," which could be used to bioengineer crops that require less water, making them potentially more resilient to climate change.
Linking science to dance, culture and more expands who can take part
Through movement, sound, culture and community, some researchers are expanding the ways we learn, think about and communicate science and engineering.
FBI Search Journalist's Home, U.S. Greenland Talks, Mental Health Funding : Up First from NPR
The FBI searches the home of a Washington Post reporter as part of a leak investigation, raising concerns among press advocates about an escalation against press freedom.U.S. talks with Denmark and Greenland end without a deal on Greenland’s future, but a new working group forms as allies push back on President Trump’s security-driven claims.And after widespread confusion and backlash, the Trump administration reverses course and restores roughly $2 billion in funding for mental health and addiction programs nationwide.Want more analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Emily Kopp, Rebekah Metzler, Mohamad ElBardicy and Alice Woelfle.It was produced by Kaity Kline, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas.We get engineering support from Neisha Heinis. And our technical director is Carleigh Strange.Our deputy Executive Producer is Kelley Dickens.
Unlocking the secrets of dreams and nightmares
Ian Sample puts listeners’ questions on dreams and nightmares to Dr Michelle Carr, director of the Dream Engineering Laboratory in Montreal’s Centre for Advanced Research in Sleep Medicine, and author of the new book Into the Dream Lab
How “tribology” became a new industrial science
The deep study of friction and surfaces — so crucial to industrial manufacture — emerged from a mid-century engineering conference.
Synopsys Enters Definitive Agreement with GlobalFoundries For Sale of Processor IP Solutions Business
Synopsys, Inc. (NASDAQ: SNPS ) today announced it has entered into a definitive agreement for the sale of its Processor IP Solutions business to GlobalFoundries (Nasdaq: GFS) (GF). Synopsys' extensive investment in IP quality, comprehensive technical support and robust IP development methodology enables designers to reduce integration risk and accelerate time-to-market. This transaction enhances the focus of Synopsys' IP business on strengthening its leadership position in interface and foundation IP while pursuing the highest-value, AI-driven opportunities from the cloud to the edge for customers spanning HPC, mobile, automotive and consumer. "We are focusing our IP resources and roadmap to further our leadership in essential interface and foundation IP while winning new, high-value opportunities that advance our position as the leading provider of engineering solutions from silicon to systems," said Sassine Ghazi, president and CEO of Synopsys. "GF will be an excellent future
Ex-Meta engineer shares 4 strategies to avoid being an underperformer
Adrien Friggeri worked at Meta for over 10 years. He shared four strategies to avoid being a low performer across the tech industry.
The science of workforce design: how to build the talent engine for healthcare
With multiple forces disrupting the world of work, healthcare must also redesign its systems from the ground up and define a new operating model.
China’s swipe at Starlink; 2,000-year-old ‘computer’: 7 science highlights
From China’s record-breaking hypergravity machine to geoengineering deserts, here are some highlights from SCMP’s recent science reporting.
Foulkes says RIDOT needs in-house engineering expertise, outlines reforms: ‘Stop outsourcing safety’
The Rhode Island Democratic gubernatorial candidate also said Tuesday she is “very open” to the idea of a millionaires tax.
The New Mercedes S-Class Has Stronger Engines
The flagship undergoes its largest facelift, with more than half of its components new or updated.
The ozone layer is still healing…thanks to science : Short Wave
In the mid-1980s, scientists published a startling finding–a giant hole in the ozone layer over Antarctica. That’s the protective shield that blocks large amounts of harmful UV radiation. And without it, the rate of cancer, cataracts and crop failure would skyrocket. Today on the show, we dive into ozone science and examine how scientists successfully sounded the alarm and solved an Antarctic mystery.Check out our episode on an Antarctic plankton mystery. And, listen to our monthly series Nature Quest.Interested in more atmospheric science? Email us your question at shortwave@npr.org.Listen to every episode of Short Wave sponsor-free and support our work at NPR by signing up for Short Wave+ at plus.npr.org/shortwave.This episode was produced by Berly McCoy. It was edited by Rebecca Ramirez. Tyler Jones checked the facts. The audio engineer was Becky Brown.
Arkansas researcher makes Forbes 30 under 30 in science
A University of Arkansas biomedical engineering researcher has been named to the Forbes 30 Under 30 Science list for 2026.
This new sugar tastes like the real thing without the usual downsides
Scientists at Tufts have found a way to turn common glucose into a rare sugar that tastes almost exactly like table sugar—but with far fewer downsides. Using engineered bacteria as microscopic factories, the team can now produce tagatose efficiently and cheaply, achieving yields far higher than current methods. Tagatose delivers nearly the same sweetness as sugar with significantly fewer calories, minimal impact on blood sugar, and even potential benefits for oral and gut health.
National Science Foundation renews Montana State program offering hands-on research experience to elementary schoolteachers
The RET Engineering program will bring to MSU for six weeks at least eight elementary school teachers from rural communities throughout Montana, including tribal reservations.
This PVAMU alum has taught over 3,000 girls about cosmetic science and has now opened a STEM classroom
Kristen Wells-Collins ’15 ‘18 is inspiring young girls to become chemists. Wells-Collins was raised in an under-resourced community in Beaumont, TX, and said she had limited exposure to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), according to her commentary on “The Jennifer Hudson Show.” However, Wells-Collins went on to pursue a degree in chemistry at Prairie View A&M University, according to her […]
A new crystal makes magnetism twist in surprising ways
Florida State University scientists have engineered a new crystal that forces atomic magnets to swirl into complex, repeating patterns. The effect comes from mixing two nearly identical compounds whose mismatched structures create magnetic tension at the atomic level. These swirling “skyrmion-like” textures are prized for their low-energy behavior and stability. The discovery could help drive advances in data storage, energy-efficient electronics, and quantum computing.
167 developers weighed in on vibe-coding. Here's what they said.
167 software engineers responded to Business Insider's vibe-coding survey. Over 45% reported "keeping up" with AI tools. Almost 17% feel behind.
The sludge in your shower drain? That could be scientists’ next big find : Short Wave
Microbes are little alchemists that perform all manner of chemical reactions. A team of microbiologists co-founded a non-profit to try to harness those abilities to solve some of the world’s big problems — from carbon capture to helping coral reefs to cleaning up waste. Recently, the team turned their attention to the microbes living in people’s homes — on and in shower heads, drip pans, and hot water heaters. These rather extreme environments may have pressured microorganisms into surviving in ways that could be advantageous to humans. Science reporter Ari Daniel takes us on a treasure hunt in miniature.This episode was produced by Hannah Chinn. It was edited by Rebecca Ramirez. Tyler Jones checked the facts. The audio engineer was Robert Rodriguez.Interested in learning more about the weird and wonderful world of microbes? Email us your question at shortwave@npr.org.Listen to every episode of Short Wave sponsor-free and support our work at NPR by signing up for Short Wave+ at plus.npr.org/shortwave.
The sludge in your shower drain? That could be scientists’ next big find : Short Wave
Microbes are little alchemists that perform all manner of chemical reactions. A team of microbiologists co-founded a non-profit to try to harness those abilities to solve some of the world’s big problems — from carbon capture to helping coral reefs to cleaning up waste. Recently, the team turned their attention to the microbes living in people’s homes — on and in shower heads, drip pans, and hot water heaters. These rather extreme environments may have pressured microorganisms into surviving in ways that could be advantageous to humans. Science reporter Ari Daniel takes us on a treasure hunt in miniature.This episode was produced by Hannah Chinn. It was edited by Rebecca Ramirez. Tyler Jones checked the facts. The audio engineer was Robert Rodriguez.Interested in learning more about the weird and wonderful world of microbes? Email us your question at shortwave@npr.org.Listen to every episode of Short Wave sponsor-free and support our work at NPR by signing up for Short Wave+ at plus.npr.org/shortwave.
DuckDuckGo vs. Google: The Search Engine Choice That Says Everything About You
One prioritizes convenience and personalization. The other puts privacy first. Which one should you use? We help you decide.
Darden Professor Mike Lenox named Interim Dean of Darden School of Business
Lenox himself is an alumnus of the University, having graduated with a bachelor’s degree in systems engineering in 1993, followed by a master’s degree in systems engineering in 1994.
What Vortec Means On Chevy Engines
The term Vortec signals that a Chevy engine is using Vortex technology, which employs a circular motion within the cylinder as the fuel and oxygen mix.
New Science and Engineering Research Center Opens
Facility is among the most technologically advanced in Virginia
Broncos offensive line is the engine that drives offense
There are so many metrics that prove that the Denver Broncos offense line is as elite as it gets this season.
Alex Baker Serves as Sought-After Thought Leader for Utah College Sports
Spencer Fane attorney Alex Baker recently published an article, Utes Incorporated: The Legal Engineering Behind a $500M Windfall, that has made him a
L3Harris announces $845 million majority sale of Space Propulsion and Power Systems business
The deal with AE Industrial Partners is expected to close in the second half of 2026. L3Harris will retain full control over the RS-25 engine.
Tailwind cuts 3 of its 4 engineers, cites 'brutal impact' of AI
Tailwind's CEO said that while AI made the web tool more popular, it also led to cratering revenue and difficulty converting paid users.
Superconductors, an opportunity for science and society
Superconductive technologies have long been central to particle physics, but they have also repeatedly moved beyond the laboratory, most notably with the emergence of magnetic resonance imaging scanners (MRI), demonstrating how breakthroughs in fundamental research can benefit society. Today, as global energy, climate and healthcare pressures grow, the conversation is shifting from “What can science give to society?” to “How can science and industry jointly develop technologies that benefit society while advancing research?” The event “Catalysing Impact – Superconductivity for Global Challenges” held at CERN in December was aimed precisely at answering this question. The workshop brought together leading researchers, industry representatives, investors and policymakers to explore how collaboration on superconducting technologies can advance particle physics while addressing some of the world’s most pressing societal challenges. The event sought to bridge fundamental research with real-world deployment and to accelerate collaborative pathways. Across keynotes, panels and round tables, participants examined both the current technological landscape and the opportunities ahead. Introducing the discussions, Frédérick Bordry, Chief Technology Officer of the Gauss Fusion company and former CERN Director for Accelerator and Technology, noted that “Superconductivity has become the silent engine of discovery science.” While the research community needs more capable and more resilient superconductors for the next generation of experiments, they also have significant potential for societal applications. Beyond their role in collider magnets, high-temperature superconductors (HTS) now promise lossless power transmission, compact fusion magnets, efficient renewable systems and new capabilities in healthcare, transport, computing and quantum technologies - all aligned with SDG-17’s emphasis on partnership-driven innovation. Participants also stressed that major hurdles remain. Global competition is accelerating, and Europe must act quickly to secure technological and economic leadership. Doing so will require coordinated investment and supportive policies, including stronger risk capital investment and mechanisms to bridge the gap between laboratory innovation and industrial deployment. The summit set in motion several concrete follow-up priorities, including aligning R&D roadmaps with societal goals and the UN Sustainable Development Goals; making it easier for public–private consortia to build demonstrators that serve both industry and research needs; and advancing investment pathways that better connect research institutions, governments and the private sector. A series of interviews of key participants is available here: Frédérick Bordry & Milena Roveda Mike Lamont Francesca Ferrazza Peter Schroth Ziad Melhem Pietro Corsaro
Entertainment around the area
Rob Thomas leads the new year’s batch of entertainment highlights coming to local and regional entertainment over the next two weeks. The singer-songwriter, with both solo and Matchbox Twenty hits to ...
Saudi's SABIC agrees to sell Sabic Europe, ETP business in Americas and Europe
Saudi chemical major Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (SABIC) has agreed to divest its entire stake in SABIC Europe and its Engineering Thermoplastics (ETP) business in Europe and the Americas, company said in a bourse filing on Thursday.
Replit boss: CEOs can vibe code ideas themselves without engineers
Replit CEO Amjad Masad says CEOs are showing up to meetings with prototypes, and product managers may just be "some of the best vibe coders."
CES 2026: The Tone Outdoors T1 solved the biggest problem with leaf blowers
Whisper Aero's new spinoff used aerospace engineering to reduce the annoyance of cleaning your yard.
The politics of free speech in US schools today
Research shows schools are not engines of indoctrination but complex institutions balancing free speech and learning.
Entertainment leaders amp up discussions about AI, creators and innovative tech at CES 2026
LAS VEGAS – The world’s largest tech showcase does not come without theatrics. Innovations and gadgets like a lollipop that sings to you as you consume it, a laundry-folding robot and a “smart” LEGO b...
Computer Science Colloquiums Series: Balanced Allocations: The Power of Choice Versus Noise
AbstractIn the balanced allocation problem we wish to allocate m balls (jobs) into n bins (servers) by allowing each ball to choose from some bins sampled uniformly at random. The goal is to maintain a small gap between the maximum load and average load.
Klipsch’s feature-packed range of powered speakers boasts precision engineering from Onkyo
Klipsch reveals The Fives II, The Sevens II and The Nines II
Quantum structured light could transform secure communication and computing
Scientists are learning to engineer light in rich, multidimensional ways that dramatically increase how much information a single photon can carry. This leap could make quantum communication more secure, quantum computers more efficient, and sensors far more sensitive. Recent advances have turned what was once an experimental curiosity into compact, chip-based technologies with real-world potential. Researchers say the field is hitting a turning point where impact may soon follow discovery.
UI wins $1.5 million to accelerate materials science research
The University of Iowa has won nearly $1.5 million to expand its materials science center and to explore new ways to leverage materials for quantum technologies. The award from the U.S. Department of Defense will unite researchers in chemistry, engineering, and physics to investigate which materials can be combined to build light- or electronic-based quantum systems. Ravitej Uppu, John Prineas, and Thomas Folland are co-principal investigators on the award.
World’s first 240Hz AR glasses aim to replace big gaming monitors
Republic of Gamers unveiled the Xreal R1 gaming glasses, featuring a massive 171-inch virtual display and an industry-first 240 Hz micro-OLED refresh rate.
Engineered for Perfection: Galaxy Book6 Delivers Advanced Performance and Al-Powered Productivity in a Sleek New Design
Featuring Intel’s Core Ultra Series 3 processors built on Intel 18A, long-lasting battery life and an ultra-slim profile, Samsung’s Galaxy Book6 series elevates what users can expect from a PC
Audeze Reveals Its New Maxwell 2 Gaming Headset For PCs And Consoles
Audeze Maxwell 2 is a major upgrade over the Maxwell gaming headset which garnered serious praise from gamers. Maxwell 2 has been re-engineered for better audio fidelity
New materials, old physics—the science behind how your winter jacket keeps you warm
Winter jackets may seem simple, but sophisticated engineering allows them to keep body heat locked in while staying breathable enough to let out sweat. Read
Leveraging magnons to advance quantum information science
Yi Li, Argonne physicist and 2025 Physical Sciences and Engineering Early Investigator Named Award recipient, seeks to harness magnetic excitations — or magnons — for applications in quantum and beyond.
Judges needed for Westfield HS science and engineering fair
Judges are needed for the Science and Engineering Fair at Westfield High School on Jan. 29 that features student projects from Westfield High School and Westfield Technical Academy. In past years, many of the students and their projects have gone on to successfully compete at regional, state and international science fairs.
Roy Glapion on work, roots, leaving the corporate world and what comes next for New Orleans
Roy Glapion, a lifelong New Orleanian and former engineering executive, talks about family roots, building Citywide Testing & Inspections, stepping away from corporate life, and why mentorship and civic investment now matter more than ever for the city’s future.
Research on Energy and Chemical Engineering at Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology
Nature Reviews Electrical Engineering - Sang Il Seok talks to Nature Reviews Electrical Engineering about research and education at the School of Energy and Chemical Engineering at Ulsan National...
Duke Blows Out Boston College By 51
Duke is engineering a very impressive turnaround.
China’s robot sports craze could eventually put humanoids in homes
On the outskirts of Beijing, young Chinese entrepreneur Cheng Hao sits on an indoor soccer pitch – but this turf isn’t for humans. It’s where engineers working for his start-up, Booster Robotics, train human-like robots to play soccer using artificial intelligence – dribbling, passing, shooting and blocking.
Clicks unveils BlackBerry-style keyboard phone for work-focused users
Clicks' new Communicator phone skips social apps, adds tactile keys, and targets people who work from their phones.
An Engineer Says He’s Found a Way to Overcome Earth’s Gravity
This new propulsion system could rewrite the rules of spaceflight—not to mention completely defy conventional physics.
5 remarkable engineering innovations of 2025
From an autonomous drone system to wood that's stronger than steel and 6 times lighter.
Great Green Wall 2.0: China is geoengineering deserts with blue-green algae
Scientists aim to reclaim thousands of hectares of desert using cyanobacteria that can stabilise sand and create foundation for plant growth.
A Look Back At 2025 In Science, From Federal Cuts To Space Junk
There was major science news in 2025. Plus, underreported developments in geoengineering and a triumph for furniture rearrangement.