Add BrightSurf on Google Email

University of Michigan


Unpacking chaos to protect your morning coffee

Researchers used two ecological theories to describe the tangle of interactions between three ant species and a recently introduced fly that preys on one of the ant species. The interaction creates chaotic patterns, meaning any one of the four insect species could be dominant at any point in time.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 11, 2025

Microrobots for targeted drug delivery

Researchers developed microrobots that can navigate complex biological environments, such as intestines, to deliver drugs with high accuracy. The devices use magnetic fields to steer and release medication, offering a promising solution for treating inflammatory bowel disease and other conditions.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 31, 2025

At-home melanoma testing with skin patch test

A new silicone patch with star-shaped microneedles, called the ExoPatch, distinguishes melanoma from healthy skin in mice, capturing cancer biomarkers from exosomes. The test shows promise for early detection of the most aggressive form of skin cancer without a biopsy or blood draw.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·DateJul 28, 2025

The Great Lakes are in an extreme new era

A new study from the University of Michigan reveals that heat waves and cold spells on the Great Lakes have increased by more than 100% since 1998, coinciding with the strongest El Niño event. This trend has significant implications for the region's weather, economy, and ecosystems.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·DateJun 4, 2025

Can we mine enough copper to develop the world?

A University of Michigan study finds that the world may not have enough copper to sustain economic growth and population increases, requiring a significant increase in copper prices to motivate new mine development. The researchers estimate that copper needs will exceed current mining capacity by 2050, with some scenarios requiring as ...

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalSEG Discovery·DateMay 22, 2025

Songbirds' great risk results in great genetic reward

A University of Michigan study reveals that songbirds making arduous winter migrations to warmer climates exhibit higher genetic diversity than those staying closer to their breeding locations. This finding highlights the interplay between genetic diversity and climate change/human impact on bird habitats.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateMay 21, 2025

The US has a new most powerful laser

The US National Science Foundation-funded ZEUS facility at the University of Michigan has roughly doubled the peak power of any other laser in the country with its first official experiment reaching 2 petawatts. Research at ZEUS will have applications in medicine, national security, materials science and astrophysics.