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University of Warwick


Scientists create rare material that could pave the way for faster, greener computer memory

Researchers at the University of Warwick have created a new material combining magnetism and electrical polarisation, making it possible to switch magnetic information using an electric field. The material works at close to room temperature, a significant breakthrough for energy-efficient computer memory.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 8, 2026

How close are we to building a digital copy of the human brain?

Researchers from the University of Warwick report that building a digital twin brain is shaped by the resolution, completeness, and updatability of biological measurements. The review charts a path toward dynamic models that update with new data and interact with the biological system. Digital twin brains have potential applications in...

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalNature Reviews Electrical Engineering·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 1, 2026

Robotic assisted knee replacement gives the same patient outcomes as a surgeon only procedure

The RACER-Knee trial found that robotic-assisted knee replacement surgery resulted in similar patient outcomes as traditional surgery, including recovery, mobility, and pain levels. Despite increased precision, the technology did not translate to improved patient outcomes within the first year after surgery.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalThe Lancet·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 21, 2026

Most adults born very premature go on to thrive, but one in five face lasting economic and social struggles

A landmark study tracks preterm babies from birth to middle adulthood, identifying early cognitive development as the strongest predictor of who flourishes and struggles. Childhood IQ at age 8 is linked to adult outcomes, with a 15-point increase associated with a 79% reduction in poor economic and social functioning.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 20, 2026

Dead stars in our cosmic backyard: Astronomers spot four white dwarfs hiding under our noses

Researchers directly observed four white dwarf stars orbiting double star systems in our cosmic backyard. The new results revealed that each system had a red dwarf companion, which was hiding the white dwarf's light. This discovery allows researchers to update the local white dwarf census within 20 parsecs of Earth.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 13, 2026

Weighing newborn planets using their dusty fingerprints

Astronomers have developed a novel method to estimate the masses of newborn planets using the properties of dust rings around stars. By analyzing the width, brightness peak location, and dust content of these ring structures, researchers can reconstruct planet masses even when those planets are too faint or embedded to observe directly.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 28, 2026

Clinical trial offers hope of better recovery for intensive care survivors

A clinical trial found that a remote multicomponent rehabilitation programme can improve quality of life for patients recovering from intensive care, particularly those ventilated for shorter periods. The online intervention combined symptom management, exercise, psychological support, and peer information, offering hope for better rec...

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalJAMA·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 19, 2026

First evidence that North Sea ‘Lost World’ had habitable forests during the last ice age

Researchers discovered temperate trees, including oak, elm, and hazel, in Doggerland over 16,000 years ago, revealing a surprisingly hospitable environment. The study suggests that Doggerland may have supported early Mesolithic communities prior to flooding, shedding light on the region's ecological history and human settlement patterns.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 11, 2026

You don't need to be very altruistic to stop an epidemic

Researchers used mathematical modeling to find that even people with minimal concern for others would choose to self-isolate when sick, suppressing diseases in the long-term. The study suggests that only a small amount of altruism is needed to achieve indefinite suppression as an alternative to herd immunity.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 23, 2026

Cleaner solar manufacturing could cut global emissions by eight billion tonnes

A new international study found that deploying next-generation solar panels at scale could reduce global carbon emissions by up to 8.2 billion tonnes by 2035. The technology, known as tunnel oxide passivated contact (TOPCon) photovoltaics, has lower environmental impacts in fifteen out of sixteen categories compared to the incumbent PE...

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 13, 2026

Stiff gels slow germs: New study maps hydrogel properties that control bacterial growth

Researchers have identified optimal conditions for bacterial growth on hydrogels, finding that firmer, lower water content materials consistently slow bacterial expansion. The study's findings also reveal a selective mechanism at work, where negatively charged gels repel bacteria harbouring negatively charged groups.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalCommunications Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 11, 2026

Patient recruitment begins for major real-world digital weight management study

The W8Buddy study, a major real-world evaluation of digitally delivered specialist weight management pathways, is recruiting 450 participants from 4 Specialist Weight Management Services across England and Wales. The study aims to assess the long-term health benefits and economic impact of digital tools for obesity care.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalBMJ Open·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJan 22, 2026

Body-focused teens more likely to experience anxiety and depression at 20

Research from the University of Warwick finds that teenage girls who manage their bodies through constant dieting and exercise face heightened risks of psychological health issues. By age 20, these young women are more likely to experience anxiety and depression, highlighting the need for a broader approach to mental health support.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalCurrent Psychology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 21, 2026

Surprising nanoscopic heat traps found in diamonds

Researchers discovered 'hot spots' around atomic defects in diamonds that briefly distort the surrounding crystal, affecting quantum-relevant defects. The findings indicate optical techniques used to control defects may unintentionally generate small pockets of heat, potentially affecting diamond-based quantum devices.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 9, 2025

Positive and poolished: Student writing has evolved in the AI era

A University of Warwick-led analysis of 4,820 student reports found that student writing has become more sophisticated, formal, and positive since the introduction of ChatGPT in 2022. However, grades have remained stable despite stylistic shifts, suggesting core academic skills remain essential.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalComputers and Education Artificial Intelligence·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 8, 2025

AI innovation missing the mark for local communities

A new report by the University of Warwick finds that artificial intelligence is being developed primarily for efficiency and service improvements, rather than benefits for local communities. The report calls for greater public participation in AI policy design to ensure technologies deliver tangible benefits where they are needed most.

The diamonds that could find cancer

Researchers at the University of Warwick have developed a handheld diamond magnetometer for cancer surgery, which uses magnetic tracer fluid to detect tumours. The device is ultra-sensitive and compact, offering a non-toxic alternative to traditional methods, such as radioactive tracers or blue dye.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalPhysical Review Applied·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 19, 2025