Matt McCary, assistant professor of biosciences at Rice University, has received a $1.26 million NSF CAREER Award to study the spread of invasive plants and their effects on native ecosystems. His research aims to identify key plant traits driving invasions and advance ecological theory.
A Rice University study has found that rising temperatures exacerbate competition within populations, leading to population crashes. This research provides a critical link between temperature increases and declines in species populations, shedding new light on the threats posed by global warming.
Gustavsson's five-year grant aims to develop innovative tools for visualizing and analyzing DNA organization and interactions in real-time. Her project seeks to uncover the relationship between DNA structure and gene activity, with potential applications in treating diseases linked to gene regulation disruptions.
Researchers from Rice University have developed an efficient lithium extraction method using solid-state electrolyte membranes, which can separate lithium from water and other ions with near-perfect selectivity. This breakthrough could make the production of EV batteries more sustainable by reducing reliance on traditional mining methods.
The Rice team created a low-cost, pump-free flow cytometer that uses gravity-driven slug flow to analyze cells with similar accuracy as conventional devices. The device is powered by AI and can count specific immune cells from unpurified blood samples within minutes.
The Texas-France Space Hub is a three-year initiative that fosters global partnerships in aerospace, expanding commercial space presence in both countries. The program includes a six-month accelerator program based in Paris and Houston, helping emerging French companies connect with industry leaders and essential resources.
Researchers developed a new method to amplify weak bioelectronic signals using OECTs, enabling highly sensitive and low-power biosensors for health and environmental monitoring. The technique overcomes previous challenges in integrating fuel cells with electrochemical sensors.
A new study from Rice University researchers introduces a theoretical framework that quantitatively predicts menopause timing by analyzing how ovarian follicles transition through different stages. The model explains why menopause occurs and sheds light on individual variability and cross-population differences, providing insights that...
A recent study led by Qian found that income, rather than proximity, is the dominant factor in determining who benefits most from public EV infrastructure. Wealthier individuals have more flexibility to spend time at charging stations while charging their vehicles, whereas lower-income communities struggle to integrate public charging ...
Researchers introduce a performance-based framework that integrates hydroclimate variability, hydrology, machine learning, community knowledge and feedbacks between physical and social systems. This approach enhances understanding of flood risks while emphasizing long-term community resilience.
A new study by Rice University and Vanderbilt University researchers found that combining focused ultrasound with the existing protein therapy TRAIL can significantly reduce tumor size and burden in prostate cancer models. The therapy works by amplifying the anticancer effects of TRAIL via Piezo1 activation, which triggers cell death.
Researchers at Rice University have created a new 2D carbon material that is eight times tougher than graphene, according to a recent study. The material, known as monolayer amorphous carbon (MAC), incorporates both crystalline and amorphous regions, giving it unique toughness.
Researchers at Rice University create programmable fluidic fuses that protect devices and enable complex sequencing of actions. The study's findings have far-reaching applications in wearable technology and robotics, promising more resilient and capable systems.
The Rice University lab, in collaboration with Baylor College of Medicine, has developed a new gene-editing strategy called Repair Drive that improves the effectiveness of gene therapies in the liver. The technique enables the repair of liver cells at higher rates and equips them with a selective advantage to outcompete incorrectly edi...
Lydia Kavraki was elected to the National Academy of Engineering for her groundbreaking contributions to robotics, biomedicine, and artificial intelligence. Her work has revolutionized motion-planning algorithms and enabled robots to collaborate with humans safely.
New research reveals that mothers of formerly incarcerated children experience significant financial strain, especially for Black mothers whose starting wealth is already lower. This study highlights the urgent need for policy reforms to address the social and economic impacts of incarceration on families.
The study reveals that relaxor ferroelectrics like lead magnesium niobate-lead titanate (PMN-PT) exhibit improved performance when shrunk down to a precise range of 25-30 nanometers. This 'Goldilocks zone' size effect could enable advanced applications such as nanoelectromechanical systems and energy harvesting.
The new method enables accurate detection of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and their derivatives (PACs) in placental samples, providing critical insights into maternal and fetal health. This breakthrough could inform public health measures and improve fetal and maternal health outcomes.
Researchers at Rice University developed microscopic reactors capable of performing chemical reactions using water instead of toxic solvents. This innovation could drastically reduce pollution in industries including pharmaceuticals and materials science.
Researchers used cryo-electron microscopy to determine the atomic structure of collagen assemblies with an unexpected right-handed superhelical twist. This discovery could reshape biomedical research by revealing greater structural diversity in collagen.
Naomi Halas' work has pioneered new insights into how light and matter interact at the smallest scales, leading to discoveries in biomedical applications such as cancer therapy and water purification. Her research on plasmonic catalysts could dramatically reduce energy required for chemical reactions.
Researchers at Rice University have discovered a new method for customizing engineered living materials (ELMs) by altering protein matrices. The study revealed that small genetic changes can significantly impact the behavior of these materials, making them ideal for applications like tissue engineering and drug delivery.
Researchers aim to develop room-temperature superconductors using AI and quantum geometry, potentially revolutionizing energy efficiency. The project aims to push boundaries of quantum materials science and superconductivity.
A novel approach transforms treatment for pancreatic cancer by repurposing WR-2721 to protect healthy tissue from radiation damage. Phase 1 and 2 clinical trials are underway to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the new therapy, which could add years of survival to patients.
Researchers at Rice University's Synthesis X Center and MD Anderson Cancer Center are developing a light-induced brain delivery platform to improve drug delivery across the blood-brain barrier for treating brain metastasis. The goal is to enhance survival rates and transform the standard of care for this deadly form of cancer.
The project leverages super-radiance to enhance the brightness and emission rate of fluorophores, enabling high-throughput imaging and tracking of molecular processes. This could lead to breakthroughs in fields like cell biology, materials science, and nanotechnology.
The Advanced Research + Invention Agency has awarded $84.2 million to Rice researchers to explore and unlock new methods for interfacing with the human brain at the circuit level. The project involves developing a distributed network of minimally invasive implants to stimulate neural circuits with cell-type precision.
Engineers developed a scalable method for creating topography-patterned aluminum surfaces with high-resolution wettability contrast. The surfaces exhibit distinct behaviors from superhydrophobic to hydrophilic, offering improved phase-change heat transfer applications.
Researchers discovered how polarons behave in tellurene as it becomes thinner, revealing changes in electrical transport and optical properties. This knowledge could inform the design of advanced technologies like more efficient electronic devices or novel sensors.
CITEC has announced its inaugural group of subawardees, who will develop innovative technologies for cancer detection and treatment in low-resource settings. The projects focus on improving HPV screening, developing deep learning algorithms for image analysis, and creating affordable microscopes for cancer screening.
Lekking, a mating system where males display for females without forming lasting bonds, is found to be remarkably stable and rarely evolves into other systems. In contrast, resource-defense polygamy is identified as fragile and frequently reverts to monogamy, often associated with higher extinction rates.
Researchers at Rice University have successfully recycled carbon nanotube fibers without losing their structure or properties. The discovery positions CNT fibers as a sustainable alternative to traditional materials like metals and polymers, offering a solution to waste management problems in industries such as aerospace and automotive.
Researchers have found dialysis to be 'astonishingly effective' in separating salts from organic substances in wastewater, reducing environmental impacts and costs. The method mimics medical dialysis technology, eliminating the need for repeated dilutions and fouling, and enabling resource recovery.
Rice scientists Kaden Hazzard and Zhiyuan Wang mathematically demonstrate the potential existence of paraparticles that have long been thought impossible. Their study shows that these particles can exhibit strange behavior when exchanging positions with other particles.
Researchers have made a major breakthrough in synthetic biology by developing a new construction kit for building custom sense-and-respond circuits in human cells. The new approach harnesses the power of phosphorylation to amplify weak input signals into macroscopic outputs, enabling rapid response times and sensitivity to external sig...
Researchers at Rice University have created a sustainable way to integrate chlorine into chemical building blocks, reducing costs and environmental impact. The new process uses iron and sulfur catalysts activated by mild blue light, eliminating harsh chemicals and high temperatures.
Researchers at Rice University have developed a programmable quantum system capable of independently controlling key factors in electron transfer. This breakthrough paves the way for novel insights into light-harvesting systems and molecular devices.
A new two-step approach to functionalize complex molecules simplifies the synthesis of piperidines, a key component in many pharmaceuticals. This innovation reduces multistep processes from 7-17 steps to just 2-5, improving efficiency and cost.
A new study reveals that Mars' southern highlands formed granitic magmas and sustained vast underground aquifers billions of years ago, potentially creating habitable conditions for life. The research used advanced thermal modeling to simulate the thermal state of Mars' crust during its ancient history.
A Rice University study found that caregiver mental health improves when carers feel supported, understood and appreciated by their loved ones. Carriers who reported lower satisfaction with their marriages experienced significantly worse mental and physical health.
The Digital Health Institute aims to develop transformative solutions in digital health, including early detection, predictive analytics, and personalized medicine. The initiative will focus on research and development, as well as training the next generation of digital health leaders.
A team of researchers has found evidence of quantum spin liquids in pyrochlore cerium stannate, governed by complex quantum rules. The study reveals emergent properties resembling fundamental aspects of our universe, including light and matter interactions.
Haotian Wang, associate professor at Rice University, is recognized for his groundbreaking contributions to carbon dioxide electrochemistry. His innovative research has transformed the field of carbon dioxide electrolysis, offering practical pathways to combat climate change.
A team of Rice University scientists has developed a coating that suppresses thermal emissions from hot windows while remaining transparent enough to capture thermal radiation from objects behind the window. This breakthrough enables clear thermal imaging at high temperatures, with potential applications in industries such as chemical ...
Omid Veiseh, a Rice University bioengineer, has been elected as a National Academy of Inventors Fellow for his significant contributions to innovation and society's welfare. He holds over 5,000 issued US patents and has demonstrated leadership in biotechnology.
Researchers at Rice University have uncovered a phenomenon where quasiparticles lose their identity in extreme quantum materials, leading to unique properties. This discovery has broader implications for understanding transitions in other correlated materials and creating advanced superconductors.
Researchers Fernanda Morales-Calva and Stephanie Leal explored the three Ws of memory - what, where, and when - to understand why people remember certain things. They found that emotional content, personal significance, repetition, and attention can influence memory retention. The study highlights the importance of considering individu...
Richard Baraniuk, a Rice University professor, has been awarded the 2025 IEEE Jack S. Kilby Signal Processing Medal for his pioneering work in multiscale and sparse signal processing. He is also a pioneer of the open education movement, transforming access to learning materials worldwide through OpenStax.
A groundbreaking study reveals how anglerfish evolved extraordinary traits, including bioluminescent lures and large oral gapes, to exploit scarce resources in the bathypelagic zone. Despite environmental challenges, anglerfish achieved high levels of phenotypic disparity, suggesting a capacity for adaptive radiation.
Julian West, assistant professor of chemistry at Rice, recognized for harnessing free radical intermediates through inner sphere photocatalysis. His work holds significant implications for organic synthesis and developing next-generation therapeutics and materials.