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New York University


Scientists form complex DNA structures without hydrogen bonds

Researchers at NYU's Department of Chemistry have discovered a way to assemble complex DNA structures without sticky ends, using shape alone to guide assembly. This breakthrough enables the creation of varied 3D structures made entirely out of DNA, with potential applications in optical, electronic, and biomedical technologies.

SourceNew York University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 2, 2026

Shine a light, build a crystal

Researchers developed a simple and reversible method for forming crystals using light-sensitive molecules, allowing for precise control over particle attraction and repulsion. This enables the creation of adaptable materials with tunable properties, such as reconfigurable optical coatings and adaptive sensors.

SourceNew York University·JournalChem·DateFeb 24, 2026

Do cash transfers lead to traumatic injury or death?

A 11-year study of Alaska's state-wide cash distribution program found no connection between direct cash payments and serious injury or death. The study considered all traumatic injuries and deaths over a longer period than previous research, examining the effects of providing cash transfers to an entire state.

SourceNew York University·JournalAmerican Journal of Epidemiology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 10, 2026

Scientists unravel vines’ parasitic nature

Researchers identify XTH5 candidate gene and brassinosteroid hormone's role in vine growth and movement. The study sheds light on the molecular mechanisms behind vines' ability to search for and attach to host plants, blocking sunlight and nutrients.

SourceNew York University·JournalNew Phytologist·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 2026

Discrimination linked to diminished immune system function

Researchers found that people experiencing everyday discrimination have elevated levels of "exhausted" white blood cells, indicating chronic stress may hamper the immune system. This study suggests social experiences like discrimination shape immune health at the cellular level and contribute to biological aging.

SourceNew York University·JournalBrain Behavior & Immunity - Health·DateJan 26, 2026

Scientists design molecules “backward” to speed up discovery

Researchers have developed a method called PropMolFlow that can generate molecular candidates roughly 10 times faster than existing methods while maintaining accuracy. The breakthrough could lead to faster creation of pharmaceuticals, materials, and new technologies by specifying properties first and then finding structures.

SourceNew York University·JournalNature Computational Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 21, 2026

Breakthrough organic crystalline material repairs itself in extreme cold temperatures, unlocking new possibilities for space and deep-sea technologies

Researchers have discovered a new type of organic crystal that can repair itself after being damaged at extremely low temperatures. The material, which can function up to 150°C, has potential applications in outer space, deep-sea operations, and polar research due to its unique molecular structure.

SourceNew York University·JournalNature Materials·TypeObservational study·DateJan 21, 2026

Scientists put teeth into water-driven gears

Researchers created a gear mechanism that relies on fluids to generate rotation, offering potential for new mechanical devices with improved flexibility and durability. The invention holds promise by eliminating the need for interlocking teeth and allowing for controlled rotation speed and direction.

SourceNew York University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 13, 2026

Aligning games and sets in determining tennis matches

Game theorists propose revising Grand Slam rules to give greater weight to games won, resolving rare but striking fairness problems. In a study of over 50,000 matches, researchers found that game-set discrepancies occur between 3-5% of the time, affecting high-level competition.

SourceNew York University·JournalJournal of Sports Analytics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 12, 2026

Neuroscientists devise formulas to measure multilingualism

Researchers created a calculator to assess multilingualism, using formulas that consider age of language acquisition and self-rated proficiency. The tool yields scores indicating language dominance and degree of multilingualism, offering a clear and transparent way to understand individual language strengths.

SourceNew York University·JournalBilingualism Language and Cognition·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 5, 2026

Internet use may protect caregivers against loneliness

A study by NYU Rory Meyers College of Nursing found that older, unpaid caregivers who used the internet more often felt less lonely and coped better with stress. The researchers analyzed data from over 3,957 participants ages 65 and older, and discovered a buffering effect: internet use reduced loneliness in caregivers with health issues.

SourceNew York University·JournalJMIR Aging·DateDec 4, 2025

Calcium “waves” shape flies’ eyes

A new study reveals that fruit flies have retinal waves of calcium activity during development, shaping their growing eyes and creating a precisely ordered architecture. These waves refine connections in the visual brain while also playing a key role in building the physical architecture of the eye.

SourceNew York University·JournalScience·DateNov 20, 2025

New study identifies part of brain animals use to make inferences

A team of New York University researchers has identified the orbitofrontal cortex as an 'inference engine' that allows animals to update their understanding of their surroundings based on changing circumstances. The study found that trained rats waited longer for water rewards in low states and less time in reward-rich states, indicati...

SourceNew York University·JournalNeuron·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2025

Study sheds new light on how hormones influence decision-making and learning

A recent study published in Nature Neuroscience has made significant breakthroughs in understanding how hormones like estrogen impact brain function, particularly in learning and decision-making. The research found that estrogen boosts dopamine activity, leading to enhanced learning capabilities and a potential connection to neuropsych...

SourceNew York University·JournalNature Neuroscience·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 11, 2025

English learners earn more high school credits in schools with greater teacher autonomy, collaboration, and advocacy for students

Researchers at NYU found that teacher autonomy, peer collaboration, and collective responsibility positively impact academic achievement for English learners. Schools with greater levels of these factors earned their students more high school credits.

SourceNew York University·JournalAmerican Educational Research Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 10, 2025

Schools often group English learners together, but studies show negative outcomes or no benefit for most students

Recent studies found that grouping English learners together is linked to lower graduation rates and college enrollment, but some benefits were seen in heterogenous groups with higher English language skills. Researchers recommend rethinking the default practice of separating English learners for instruction.

SourceNew York University·JournalPeabody Journal of Education·DateOct 24, 2025

When is the brain like a subway station? When it’s processing many words at once

A new study by New York University researchers found that the brain processes multiple words at once in a hierarchical manner, similar to a subway system. The brain coordinates different levels of processing, such as sounds, words, and meanings, without interference, allowing for efficient interpretation of speech.

SourceNew York University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 20, 2025

Pilot shows promise and challenge of using simulations to prepare students for social work practice

A new pilot initiative on VR and actor-assisted teaching and learning at NYU Silver School of Social Work has shown promise in preparing students for social work practice. However, the approach can be time-consuming, costly, and requires thoughtful preparation, scaffolding, and integration.

SourceNew York University·JournalStudies in Clinical Social Work Transforming Practice Education and Research·TypeSystematic review·DateOct 15, 2025

What helps fuel children’s ambitions to become political leaders? Their sense that they will be supported

Children's belief that family and friends will support their pursuit of political leadership predicts their expressed motivation to become leaders. Girls show stronger relationship between anticipated social support and interest in becoming leaders compared to boys. The study suggests communicating social support for girls' political a...

SourceNew York University·JournalJournal of Experimental Psychology General·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 30, 2025