MIT researchers discovered that dendrites, cracks that harm the performance of solid-state batteries, can grow at far lower stresses than previously understood. The findings reveal why developing stronger solid electrolytes alone hasn’t solved the dendrite problem; more chemically stable materials will be needed to finally fulfill the promise of these batteries.

New research provides insights into the severe 2022 outbreak of Fusarium head blight in Ethiopia and identifies emerging fungal pathogens that could have broader implications for global wheat production.

Solar energy is a promising source of green energy, yet conventional solar cells cannot fully utilize it due to efficiency limits in semiconductors. Researchers have now found a strategy to overcome this barrier with a new design strategy for exciton amplification. Using a molybdenum-based “spin-flip” emitter, they harvest multiplied excitons generated by singlet fission. The system achieves quantum yields of around 130%, surpassing the conventional 100% limit and opening possibilities for solar cells and LEDs.

A multiyear NSF study by FAU, the Brookings Institution, Texas State University, and four Robert Noyce partner institutions examined STEM teacher preparation and retention in high-need U.S. schools. Using national data, program surveys, and stakeholder interviews, findings show that Noyce-supported programs help maintain a stable, well-qualified STEM workforce, boost teacher readiness, and reduce vacancies near partner institutions. While some gaps remain, targeted policies and programs are critical for sustaining a resilient STEM teacher pipeline and expanding equitable student access to high-quality STEM education.