Tag: MIT

  • Top Universities Producing the Most Unicorn Founders: Stanford, Harvard, and MIT Lead

    Top Universities Producing the Most Unicorn Founders: Stanford, Harvard, and MIT Lead

    Stanford University tops the global list of universities whose alumni have founded the most unicorns, with 478 such companies, according to Dealroom data. Harvard University follows with 320 alumni-founded unicorns, and MIT ranks third with 295. These three institutions dominate the ranking, highlighting their strong connections to startup creation.

    Tsinghua University brings China into the top four with 200 unicorns founded by its alumni. The University of California, Berkeley, ranks fifth with 190, showing robust representation from both Chinese and US institutions. The University of Pennsylvania is sixth with 165 alumni-founded unicorns, and the University of Cambridge ranks seventh with 140, making it a leading institution outside the US and China.

    Tel Aviv University and Peking University each have 130 alumni-founded unicorns, underscoring the role of universities in Israel and China in the global startup ecosystem. Technion Israel Institute of Technology records 120, while the University of Oxford and INSEAD each have 95. The ranking also includes IIT Bombay with 90 and IIT Delhi with 75, representing India. Other notable institutions in the top 20 include Carnegie Mellon, Princeton, Yale, Columbia, and the University of Toronto.

  • GPT-5.6 Sol Streamlines Quantum Computing Experiments with Automated Calibration

    GPT-5.6 Sol Streamlines Quantum Computing Experiments with Automated Calibration

    Researchers at MIT have successfully used OpenAI’s GPT-5.6 Sol model to automate parts of quantum computing experiments, reducing the manual workload for scientists and enabling overnight data collection. The AI agent, integrated via Codex, handled routine measurements and qubit calibration on real superconducting hardware.

    AI Meets Quantum Computing

    Quantum experiments often require hundreds or thousands of preliminary measurements before researchers can proceed to the main experiment. MIT researcher Beatriz Yankelevich tested whether GPT-5.6 Sol could automate these workflows. By connecting the model to lab software through Codex, it could interact directly with quantum experiments.

    Worked With Real Qubits

    The experiments involved superconducting qubits cooled to extremely low temperatures inside dilution refrigerators. Once the chip was prepared, researchers controlled it via software using microwave signals. This environment became a natural testbed for an AI agent capable of interacting with measurement software.

    GPT-5.6 Sol Could Run Measurements

    Yankelevich gave Codex specialized skills explaining how individual measurements should be performed and evaluated. GPT-5.6 Sol could then select parameters, operate the hardware, analyze measurements, and decide whether to refine the experiment or move forward.

    It Helped Calibrate Qubits

    The model worked on an uncalibrated six-qubit chip used by the research group. It identified transition frequencies, calibrated control and readout pulses, and measured how long qubits retained quantum information. These steps are essential for accurately controlling superconducting quantum processors.

    Overnight Experiments Became Possible

    One major advantage was time. Researchers could allow agents to run routine measurements for hours while they worked elsewhere in the laboratory. Yankelevich said she could check progress remotely and intervene when an experiment needed correction or a different direction.

    AI Still Has Limits

    GPT-5.6 Sol performed better when experimental signals were clear and workflows were well defined. Weak or noisy signals were harder, sometimes requiring guidance from an experienced researcher. The results suggest AI agents can automate routine workflows while humans remain important for ambiguous physical results.

    Researchers Move Up the Stack

    The biggest impact is not simply faster measurements. By handing routine calibration and analysis tasks to agents, researchers can spend more time interpreting results, designing experiments, and planning new research directions. OpenAI says the MIT group now regularly uses agents for routine measurements.

  • MIT Department of Athletics, Physical Education, and Recreation (DAPER) News and Highlights

    MIT Department of Athletics, Physical Education, and Recreation (DAPER) News and Highlights

    MIT’s Department of Athletics, Physical Education, and Recreation (DAPER) is a hub for student wellness, teamwork, and achievement. The department offers a wide range of programs that integrate physical activity with academic learning, helping students develop both mentally and physically.

    One recent innovation is the Exercise is Medicine class, which blends physical activity with academic coursework, allowing MIT students to stretch both minds and bodies. This experimental course rethinks the traditional separation between brains and bodies in education, bringing movement into the classroom and academics into the gym.

    DAPER also celebrates outstanding athletic accomplishments. In March 2025, the MIT women’s swimming and diving team won its first NCAA Division III National Championship, entering the event ranked as the top team in the country and securing three individual national titles along with four relay titles. Additionally, Karenna Groff ’22 was named NCAA Woman of the Year in 2023, becoming only the second MIT student-athlete ever to earn this prestigious honor.

    The department also focuses on social connection and well-being. A new course, PE.0539, supports students in meeting new people, strengthening friendships, building communities, and making MIT a more welcoming place. Meanwhile, senior Branden Spitzer discovered a passion for materials science and engineering through his love of food and cooking, illustrating how DAPER’s programs can unlock unexpected academic interests.

    DAPER is led by dedicated professionals like Julie Soriero, former MIT director of athletics and head of DAPER, who was inducted into the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics Hall of Fame in 2021 and received the NCAA President’s Pat Summitt Award in 2018 for her devotion to developing student-athletes and making a positive impact on their lives.

    MIT’s varsity athletics teams consistently perform at a high level. The Engineers finished fourth in the 2022 Division III LEARFIELD Directors’ Cup standings, posting their second-highest finish in program history after claiming 11 NEWMAC titles. Weekly sports shorts highlight achievements across men’s and women’s basketball, swimming and diving, field hockey, sailing, track and field, and baseball, with numerous student-athletes earning CoSIDA Academic All-District and All-America accolades.

    DAPER also supports cutting-edge research through programs like the MIT.nano Immersion Lab Gaming Program, which awards seed grants to advance technologies for gaming and data visualization. Through these diverse initiatives, DAPER continues to empower MIT students to excel in sports, academics, and personal growth.

  • MIT Comparative Media Studies and Writing: Exploring Media, Science, and Society

    MIT Comparative Media Studies and Writing: Exploring Media, Science, and Society

    The MIT Department of Comparative Media Studies/Writing (CMS/W) is a hub for examining how media, technology, and communication shape our world. From the ethical dimensions of artificial intelligence to the history of vaccine hesitancy, CMS/W faculty, students, and alumni are at the forefront of critical inquiry and creative expression.

    Recent highlights from the department illustrate its broad impact. A Scientific American feature showcases the role of curiosity-driven science in America’s success, spotlighting MIT researchers. Thomas Levenson’s new book delves into the long history of vaccine hesitancy, tracing arguments against vaccination back to the origins of the technology itself. The MIT Ethics of Computing Research Symposium brought together experts to examine the crucial human component in computing and AI.

    Students are also making headlines. In a collaboration with The Associated Press, MIT science writing students developed and pitched local climate stories, working alongside visual journalists. The MIT4America Calculus Project connects MIT undergraduates with high schoolers, providing tutoring in a subject that is a gateway to many STEM careers.

    The department mourns the loss of Les Perelman, a longtime faculty member and champion of writing education, who fiercely criticized automated essay grading and established an influential writing program. Meanwhile, new faculty join CMS/W and other humanities departments, and professors like T.L. Taylor (named a 2026-27 CASBS Fellow) and Justin Reich (leading efforts to help K-12 schools navigate AI) continue to push boundaries.

    Through courses that mix beats, history, and technology—such as a unique DJ’ing class—and through honors like the Knight-Hennessy Scholarship for alumnus Steven Truong, CMS/W exemplifies MIT’s commitment to integrating the arts and sciences. The department’s work underscores how studying media and writing is essential for understanding and shaping the future.

  • MIT Civil and Environmental Engineering: Pioneering Sustainable Infrastructure and Climate Solutions

    MIT Civil and Environmental Engineering: Pioneering Sustainable Infrastructure and Climate Solutions

    The MIT Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering (CEE) continues to lead groundbreaking research that addresses some of the world’s most pressing challenges, from climate change to infrastructure resilience. Recent developments highlight the department’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and real-world impact.

    Building Smarter, Greener Structures

    MIT researchers have developed a computer model that could enable bridges and buildings to use less material while maintaining structural integrity. This approach bridges the gap between optimized design and practical construction, promising significant cost and environmental savings.

    Climate and Environmental Breakthroughs

    In a major advance for sustainable construction, new research reveals how injecting carbon dioxide into cement paste triggers a chemical sequence that rewires how cement sets. Using real-time Raman spectroscopy, scientists captured a fleeting intermediate reaction for the first time, opening pathways to carbon-negative building materials.

    MIT is also tackling methane emissions head-on. PhD student Audrey Parker is studying mitigation strategies for dairy farms and coal mines, targeting this potent greenhouse gas. Meanwhile, ocean bacteria have been observed teaming up to break down biodegradable plastics, offering insights into natural waste decomposition processes.

    AI and Automation Innovations

    MIT engineers have designed an AI model that generates novel proteins based on their motion and vibration patterns, not just their shape. This breakthrough could lead to dynamic biomaterials and adaptive therapeutics. Another AI system learns to keep warehouse robot traffic flowing smoothly by deciding which robots get right-of-way, reducing congestion and increasing throughput.

    A parking-aware navigation system developed at MIT minimizes the need to circle for spots, saving drivers up to 35 minutes and reducing emissions by providing realistic travel time estimates.

    Energy and Sustainability

    Active Surfaces, an award-winning startup with roots at the MIT Energy Initiative, is developing peel-and-stick solar panels that are lightweight, flexible, and high-efficiency. These films can be applied to roofs, walls, and curved surfaces, making solar energy more accessible.

    Recognition and Leadership

    MIT has once again been ranked the world’s No. 1 university by QS for 2026-27, marking the 15th consecutive year at the top. The Institute also placed first in 12 subject areas. The School of Engineering recognized faculty with tenure and awards in winter and fall 2025-2026, celebrating scholarship, service, and excellence. Desirée Plata, a CEE faculty member, was appointed associate dean of engineering to advance research and entrepreneurial initiatives.

    These achievements underscore MIT Civil and Environmental Engineering’s role as a global leader in creating sustainable, intelligent solutions for the built and natural environments.

  • MIT Chemistry Department: Breakthroughs in Atmospheric Science, Carbon Capture, and Materials Design

    MIT Chemistry Department: Breakthroughs in Atmospheric Science, Carbon Capture, and Materials Design

    The MIT Department of Chemistry continues to lead global research and education, as highlighted by recent achievements and discoveries. QS World University Rankings has named MIT the world’s No. 1 university for 2026-27, marking the 15th consecutive year at the top, with the Institute also ranking first in 12 subject areas.

    Professor Susan Solomon has been named the 2026 Tang Prize laureate for her groundbreaking work on atmospheric chemistry, which laid the foundation for the recovery of the ozone layer and demonstrated the lasting impacts of carbon emissions on Earth’s climate.

    MIT researchers are developing innovative alternatives to conventional carbon capture methods, presenting a promising new approach to efficient and flexible carbon capture and removal. In materials science, MIT chemists have designed impact-resistant plastics by introducing weaker bonds into polystyrene and rubber, helping these materials dissipate energy and resist destructive forces.

    In fundamental chemistry, MIT chemists have discovered and isolated a new boron-oxygen molecule called dioxaborirane, which could expand the chemistry of boron-based reagents and provide new tools for oxidation reactions in synthesis and materials science.

    Several MIT affiliates have been recognized with prestigious honors. Six MIT faculty and 10 alumni were elected to the National Academy of Sciences for 2026. Three students—Deeksha Kumaresh, Anna Liu, and Charlotte Myers—were named 2026 Goldwater Scholars. Six MIT affiliates received 2026 Paul and Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans, and four MIT faculty and 13 alumni were elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. Two alumnae, Mitali Chowdhury ’24 and Christina Kim ’24, were named 2026 Gates Cambridge Scholars.

    The NSF has renewed support for the MIT-led AI and physics institute (IAIFI), expanding a new model for discovery as it enters its second phase with increased funding and broader ambitions. The Haystack 37m Telescope has returned to its science and educational mission at MIT Haystack Observatory, ushering in a new era of astrophysical research.

    In cancer research, a new single-molecule tracker allows researchers to tag and follow the activity of individual proteins in real-time, illuminating the workings of cancer-related proteins. Additionally, MIT School of Engineering faculty received awards in winter 2026 for their scholarship, service, and overall excellence.

  • MIT Chemical Engineering News: Recent Breakthroughs and Department Highlights

    MIT Chemical Engineering News: Recent Breakthroughs and Department Highlights

    MIT’s Department of Chemical Engineering continues to drive innovation across multiple fields, from healthcare and energy to materials science and machine learning. Below is a roundup of the latest news and research from the department.

    • QS ranks MIT the world’s No. 1 university for 2026-27 — For the 15th consecutive year, MIT tops the QS World University Rankings, placing first in 12 subject areas. (June 17, 2026)
    • Fluorescent nanosensor enables rapid, first-of-its-kind detection of key gut health biomarker — Researchers developed an optical nanosensor to detect a key gut biomarker, enabling faster, accessible screening. (June 15, 2026)
    • Q&A with an MIT dining influencer — Michaela Brown shares stories about food and friends as an MIT Dining Ambassador, from oxtail and ackee in Jamaica to Thanksgiving dinner at New Vassar. (June 11, 2026)
    • Developing innovative alternatives to conventional carbon capture methods — MIT researchers present a promising new approach to efficient, flexible carbon capture and removal. (June 4, 2026)
    • A new vaccine adjuvant could make it easier to eradicate polio — The adjuvant helps the injectable polio vaccine induce a strong immune response in the GI tract, critical to eradicating the virus. (June 3, 2026)
    • A new sensor could enable earlier detection of bladder cancer — Using a catheter coated with carbon nanotubes, researchers detect biomarkers produced by cancer cells in the bladder. (May 28, 2026)
    • Eleven from MIT accept 2026 Fulbright awards — Over half of MIT’s Fulbright applicants won awards; current students and alumni will embark on research and teaching abroad. (May 26, 2026)
    • Building AI models that understand chemical principles — Connor Coley works at the interface of chemistry and machine learning to discover and design new drug compounds. (May 20, 2026)
    • From technical solution to systems change: Tackling the problem of plastic waste — Akorfa Dagadu, a senior in chemical engineering, learns the importance of community-engaged research through the PKG Center. (May 14, 2026)
    • A new approach to cancer vaccination yields more powerful T cells — Using immune-remodeling mRNA molecules, researchers generated T cells that slow tumor growth and, in some cases, eradicate tumors. (May 13, 2026)
    • MIT School of Engineering faculty receive awards in winter 2026 — Faculty and researchers honored for scholarship, service, and overall excellence. (May 7, 2026)
    • Study: Gene circuits reshape DNA folding and affect how genes are expressed — When genes are transcribed, they suppress or activate their neighbors, coupling expression between genes. (April 30, 2026)
    • Three from MIT named 2026 Goldwater Scholars — Rising seniors Deeksha Kumaresh, Anna Liu, and Charlotte Myers honored for academic achievements. (April 23, 2026)
    • MIT affiliates elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences for 2026 — Four MIT faculty and 13 alumni among more than 250 new members. (April 22, 2026)
    • MIT faculty, alumni receive 2025-26 American Physical Society honors — Two faculty and six alumni win top APS awards; four faculty and 12 alumni named APS Fellows. (April 15, 2026)
  • MIT Tops QS World University Rankings for 15th Consecutive Year

    MIT Tops QS World University Rankings for 15th Consecutive Year

    MIT Continues Its Reign as the World’s Best University

    The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) has once again been named the world’s top university by QS World University Rankings for the 2026-27 academic year. This marks the 15th consecutive year that MIT has held the number one spot, solidifying its position as a global leader in higher education and research.

    In addition to the overall ranking, MIT also placed first in 12 subject areas, showcasing its strength across a wide range of disciplines. The institute also ranked second in seven subject areas, further demonstrating its academic excellence.

    The QS World University Rankings are based on a variety of factors, including academic reputation, employer reputation, faculty-student ratio, citations per faculty, international faculty ratio, and international student ratio. MIT’s consistent performance across these metrics underscores its commitment to providing a world-class education and fostering groundbreaking research.

    This achievement is a testament to the hard work and dedication of MIT’s faculty, staff, and students. The institute’s continued success in the rankings reflects its ability to attract top talent from around the world and its commitment to pushing the boundaries of knowledge.

    For more details, visit the original article on MIT News.

  • MIT Biology Department Highlights: From Stem Cell Research to Enzyme Discoveries

    MIT Biology Department Highlights: From Stem Cell Research to Enzyme Discoveries

    MIT’s Department of Biology continues to push the boundaries of life science research. Recent stories highlight groundbreaking work in stem cell regeneration, enzyme assembly, bacterial defense systems, and the achievements of faculty and alumni. Below is a roundup of the latest news from the department.

    Meet the leader of the Department of Biology’s all-important “kitchen”

    Karen O’Leary, lab associate and acting supervisor in the Glassware Sterilization Facility, has become a cornerstone of the department’s operations.

    QS ranks MIT the world’s No. 1 university for 2026-27

    MIT places first overall for the 15th consecutive year and leads in 12 subject areas.

    Harriet having it all

    Harriet Latham Robinson SM ’61, PhD ’65 reflects on a career at the forefront of molecular biology, spanning Boston, Moscow, and beyond.

    Advancing stem cell research and building the next generation of biologists

    Biology PhD student Giselle Valdes studies stem cell regeneration while mentoring aspiring researchers.

    MIT affiliates win 2026 Breakthrough, New Horizons prizes

    Faculty member Shu-Heng Shao and four MIT alumni are honored by the Breakthrough Prize Foundation.

    Enzymes that assemble into droplets can speed up cellular reactions

    MIT biologists find that highly concentrated droplets help cells keep enzymes organized and control growth signals.

    MIT affiliates elected to National Academy of Sciences for 2026

    Six MIT faculty and 10 additional alumni are recognized for outstanding contributions to research.

    Four from MIT named 2026 Searle Scholars

    Computational neuroscientist Sven Dorkenwald and cell biologist Whitney Henry, along with two alumni, are recognized for early-career research.

    MIT BrainTrust supports neighbors living with brain injuries

    Nearly 100 MIT students participate in a buddy program assisting Boston-area residents.

    Biologist Joey Davis explores how cells build complex structures

    His studies shed light on the assembly instructions governing ribosomes, the critical protein-building machines of the cell.

    Six from MIT awarded 2026 Paul and Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans

    The fellowship honors immigrant contributions with $90,000 in graduate study funding.

    MIT affiliates elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences for 2026

    Four MIT faculty and 13 alumni are among the new members.

    Two MIT alumnae named 2026 Gates Cambridge Scholars

    Mitali Chowdhury ’24 and Christina Kim ’24 will pursue graduate studies at Cambridge University.

    Professor Michael Laub and MIT alumni named 2025 AAAS Fellows

    The American Association for the Advancement of Science recognizes 21 alumni and Laub.

    Slice and dice: SNIPE defense system

    Newly characterized biological defense system directly protects bacteria by chopping up invading viral DNA.

  • MIT Biological Engineering: Breakthroughs in Stem Cells, Cancer Nanomedicine, and Photonic Devices

    MIT Biological Engineering: Breakthroughs in Stem Cells, Cancer Nanomedicine, and Photonic Devices

    MIT’s Department of Biological Engineering continues to drive innovation across multiple fields, from stem cell research and cancer detection to advanced medical imaging and protein engineering. Here is a roundup of recent developments highlighted in MIT News.

    Advancing Stem Cell Research

    Biology PhD student Giselle Valdes is studying stem cell regeneration while inspiring the next generation of researchers. Her work focuses on understanding how stem cells can be harnessed for therapeutic applications.

    Brighter MRI Signals

    MIT researchers have developed new MRI sensors that sensitively detect target molecules in the brain and body. This breakthrough could lead to improved diagnostic imaging for neurological conditions.

    Fulbright Awards

    Eleven members of the MIT community have accepted 2026 Fulbright awards. Over half of MIT’s Fulbright applicants won awards this year, with recipients embarking on research and teaching projects abroad.

    Cancer Nanomedicine

    The MIT Marble Center for Cancer Nanomedicine celebrates a decade of transforming nanotechnology concepts into advances for cancer patients, achieving significant progress in detection and treatment.

    Plastic Waste Solutions

    Akorfa Dagadu, a senior in chemical engineering, highlights the importance of community-engaged research through the PKG Center for Social Impact, addressing plastic waste from a systems perspective.

    Photonic Devices

    MIT researchers created tiny 3D photonic devices with features small enough to channel visible light, potentially enabling devices that compute using light instead of electricity.

    Faculty Awards

    MIT School of Engineering faculty received multiple awards in winter 2026, recognizing their scholarship, service, and excellence.

    Chromatin and Gene Expression

    By monitoring chromosomal structures over various timescales, researchers discovered that chromatin helps bring genes closer to their regulatory elements, controlling gene expression.

    Molecular Markers of Fitness

    A new study reveals cellular pathways that underlie differences in physical fitness, mapping molecular markers that could inform exercise science.

    Pencil Beam Laser

    A self-organizing ‘pencil beam’ laser offers faster, more precise biomedical imaging, helping scientists design brain-targeted therapies.

    Goldwater Scholars

    Rising seniors Deeksha Kumaresh, Anna Liu, and Charlotte Myers were named 2026 Goldwater Scholars for their academic achievements.

    Gates Cambridge Scholars

    Two MIT alumnae, Mitali Chowdhury and Christina Kim, both class of 2024, will pursue graduate studies at Cambridge University as 2026 Gates Cambridge Scholars.

    AI-Driven Protein Design

    OpenProtein.AI, founded by Tristan Bepler PhD ’20 and former MIT professor Tim Lu PhD ’07, offers open-source models for protein engineering, democratizing access to AI tools.

    Youth and Carcinogen Vulnerability

    A new study suggests that the chemical NDMA is more likely to cause cancerous mutations after exposure early in life, highlighting the vulnerability of youth.

    MIT Rankings

    MIT’s graduate engineering program is ranked No. 1 in the nation by U.S. News for 2026-27, with MIT Sloan ranked No. 6.

    For more details on each story, follow the links to MIT News.