The competition brings seven teams together to pitch optics and photonics technologies with cash prizes and industry mentorship. Previous winners include Max-IR Labs, Advanced Optronics, and Coalesenz.
SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·DateAug 11, 2026
Researchers nationwide will have access to Georgia Tech's Advanced Manufacturing Pilot Facility remotely, leveraging AI, simulation, and autonomous experimentation to accelerate materials discovery. The cloud lab will expand who can take advantage of AMPF's capabilities, lowering costs and barriers to conducting research.
A new Perspective in Nature Sustainability proposes industry-specific net-zero blueprints to ensure corporate climate action is grounded in science. The plan aims to provide a common scientific foundation for companies to set targets and track progress, reducing the reliance on carbon credit markets and planetary limits.
SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalNature Sustainability·DateJul 30, 2026
A new Brookings Institution study found that ICE surges have caused significant job losses in cities where enforcement is most active. Between 51,000 and 297,000 American-born workers lost their jobs due to the surges, which also led to widespread disruptions throughout industries such as construction.
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.
A new laser-based process is set to revolutionize photonics manufacturing by removing manual calibration, which accounts for over half of production costs. The technology promises faster, cheaper, and precise manufacturing at sub-micron tolerances.
New research reveals that see-through or cut-out product packaging on a shelf increases the psychological desire to own it. Customers rely on various cues when making purchasing decisions, with visibility of a product influencing choices.
SourceCity St George’s, University of London·JournalInternational Journal of Marketing·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 20, 2026
A study by Carnegie Mellon University found that offshoring of production in Taiwanese electronics firms had mixed outcomes on their innovative capabilities. In product categories that could be moved offshore more easily, innovation levels declined, but in other areas, research efforts were reallocated to boost innovation.
SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalManagement Science·DateApr 29, 2026
A team at Virginia Tech developed a water-based process to create multilayer bioplastic films that are both high-performing and easier to manufacture. The method avoids toxic solvents and matches current industrial production speeds, making it viable for real-world use.
SourceVirginia Tech·JournalFood Packaging and Shelf Life·DateApr 20, 2026
A novel framework Vote3D-AD achieves remarkable performance in unsupervised point cloud anomaly localization, combining varied defect synthesis and differentiable vote clustering. It demonstrates stronger localization than prior works and exhibits practical speed for real inspection pipelines.
SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalAlexandria Engineering Journal·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 25, 2026
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.
A new study by Binghamton University School of Management reveals that businesses can improve their performance when they openly discuss and address cybersecurity issues. The research found a positive correlation between cybersecurity readiness and firm performance, suggesting that proactive measures can lead to better outcomes.
SourceBinghamton University·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 12, 2026
Scientists developed a cost-effective method to produce 3-Hydroxypropanoic acid (3-HP), an industrial chemical used in disposable diapers, microplastics, and acrylic paint. The new process using engineered microbes to ferment plant sugars into 3-HP has been validated for commercial potential.
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 9, 2026
Researchers have developed a strong, defect-free composite material that can phase-shift under stress to dissipate energy. The material, created using additive friction stir deposition, has potential applications in defense, infrastructure, aerospace, and sporting equipment.
SourceVirginia Tech·JournalMaterials Science and Engineering R Reports·DateDec 23, 2025
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
The University of Texas at Arlington and TEES launched a new biomanufacturing training and research hub in Dallas, providing hands-on training and state-of-the-art lab space. The National Center for Therapeutics Manufacturing satellite campus strengthens North Texas' biotech workforce and expands research opportunities.
The US economy is expected to grow at 1.8% in 2026, with AI and energy infrastructure investments playing a key role. Despite this, job creation will not be strong enough to keep unemployment rates from rising to 4.8%, with the nation's economy facing uncertainty around trade policy.
Duke University researchers have developed a printing technique that can create fully functional and recyclable electronics with features as small as tens of micrometers. This breakthrough has the potential to significantly reduce the environmental impact of the $150 billion electronic display industry.
SourceDuke University·JournalNature Electronics·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 17, 2025
Researchers at Virginia Tech have developed an AI-powered system to detect flaws in wire-arc additive manufacturing, a faster approach to producing complex components. The technology enables real-time defect detection and correction, reducing waste and improving quality.
SourceVirginia Tech·JournalMaterials & Design·DateOct 7, 2025
A new study suggests that MNEs can control crises and reduce supplier-induced ESG controversies by building small-world supply networks. This approach enables MNEs to moderate the behaviors of their suppliers, improving sustainability and reducing reputational risks.
SourceCity St George’s, University of London·JournalJournal of International Business Studies·TypeMeta-analysis·DateAug 6, 2025
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.
A study of France's supply chain law found no evidence that it harms companies' profits, contradicting business lobby narratives. The law requires due diligence on human rights, health and safety, and environmental standards, but did not discourage companies from participating in voluntary initiatives.
SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalReview of International Political Economy·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 29, 2025
Engineers at RMIT University have developed a new low-cost approach to creating 3D-printed titanium alloys, which are about a third cheaper than standard alloys. The new alloy has improved strength and performance compared to traditional 3D-printed titanium alloys.
SourceRMIT University·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 28, 2025
A new book by Rutgers University professor Ko-Lin Chin investigates the operations of illicit businesses in China's counterfeit industry. The author examines individual characteristics, economic aspects, relationships with organized crime, and demand for counterfeit goods.
SourceRutgers University Newark School of Criminal Justice·DateJul 18, 2025
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.
International Journal of Extreme Manufacturing (IJEM) achieves a new Impact Factor of 21.3, surpassing 20 for the first time and maintaining its position as top journal in the field. IJEM has attracted submissions from 853 institutions in 81 countries.
SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateJun 18, 2025
Australians waste 7.6 million tonnes of food annually, with poor label design and inconsistent packaging being key reasons for this problem. Clearer date labels and storage advice could drastically reduce edible food waste.
A team of researchers at Texas A&M University has received a $1.6 million grant to develop a system for rapidly accelerating the certification process of 3D-printed critical components used in military applications.
Researchers from Empa developed machine learning algorithms to optimize laser-based manufacturing techniques, reducing preliminary experiments by two-thirds. They also implemented real-time optimization using field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) for improved welding processes.
SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalAdditive Manufacturing·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 27, 2025
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.
A new economic geography model, incorporating firm heterogeneity and environmental pollution, can help policymakers understand the impact of industrial clusters on regional development. The model suggests that changes in firm productivity distribution and trade costs can influence industrial agglomeration and region development.
SourceHiroshima University·JournalPortuguese Economic Journal·DateMay 20, 2025
The University of Texas at Arlington's (UTA) Texas Manufacturing Assistance Center (TMAC) has developed a real-time sensor data system to track environmental impact. The program helps Texas manufacturers reduce pollution, lower emissions, and save costs by identifying energy waste, water consumption, and air leaks.
The MASTER project invites educational institutions to develop innovative XR educational content and validate cutting-edge XR technologies in real settings. Selected applicants will receive financial support, access to advanced XR tools, and expert mentorship.
SourceEuropean Science Communication Institute gGmbH·DateMay 7, 2025
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.
Researchers found that while AI models showed promise in assessing weld quality, they performed significantly better analyzing curated online images compared to actual welds. Context-specific prompts may enhance the performance of AI models in some cases.
SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalInformation Fusion·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 6, 2025
Researchers propose a novel approach to reduce carbon emissions in cement manufacturing by leveraging iron naturally present in cement raw materials. The method enables the co-thermal conversion of CaCO₃ with CH₄ under a methane atmosphere, resulting in high-value syngas as a byproduct and significantly reducing carbon footprint.
SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 29, 2025
The World Sleep Society releases recommendations on wearable sleep trackers, providing clear guidelines for consumers, clinicians, researchers, and manufacturers. Key takeaways include choosing a device suitable for individual use cases and focusing on fundamental sleep measures rather than specific stages of sleep.
SourceNational University of Singapore, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine·JournalSleep Medicine·DateApr 24, 2025
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.
Data-model fusion (DMF) integrates model-based and data-driven methods to reduce limitations in smart manufacturing and digital engineering. It enhances interpretability and accuracy, with applications in product design, manufacturing, experimentation, testing, verification, and maintenance.
SourceHigher Education Press·JournalEngineering·DateApr 23, 2025
Imperial scientists launched a miniature laboratory into Earth orbit to engineer microbes that can produce food, pharmaceuticals, fuel, and bioplastics in microgravity. This partnership aims to create environmentally friendly and affordable non-animal foods, reducing the cost of space travel.
Three NSF-funded investigations are launching on NASA's SpaceX CRS-32 mission to ISS National Laboratory. Investigations aim to advance pharmaceutical manufacturing, develop new materials, and study active matter in microgravity environment.
SourceInternational Space Station U.S. National Laboratory·DateApr 17, 2025
A new hardware platform for AI accelerators capable of handling significant workloads with reduced energy requirement has been developed. The platform leverages III-V compound semiconductors to create photonic integrated circuits, which operate at the speed of light with minimal energy loss.
SourceInstitute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers·JournalIEEE Journal of Selected Topics in Quantum Electronics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 10, 2025
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.
Virginia Tech aims to establish a hydrogen innovation hub using natural gas conversion technology, producing cleaner and more economically viable products. The project's goal is to reduce methane and carbon dioxide emissions by transforming potent greenhouse gases into less harmful high-value products.
Researchers will use sensors and software to predict AM part lifespan, enabling cost savings and extending part life. The project aims to improve Darwin software to provide detailed insights into manufacturing processes.
Researchers at the University of Surrey developed a cost-effective method for removing CO2 from the air and converting it into synthetic fuel. The Dual-Function Material (DFM) process has been shown to be financially competitive with established industry methods, offering a promising route to decarbonize industries.
SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalApplied Energy·DateApr 3, 2025
Researchers developed an electrochemical approach to convert harmful nitric oxide emissions into high-purity nitric acid, reducing industrial nitrogen waste and promoting sustainable pollution mitigation. The process operates at near-ambient conditions with minimal infrastructure, offering economic and environmental benefits.
SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalNature Catalysis·DateApr 3, 2025
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.
Khaled Abed Alghani's research reveals five key processes in managing industry platforms: creation, integration, orchestration, navigation, and evolution. Platform-based business models struggle in B2B industries due to complex relationships between businesses.
Researchers found that clothing rental companies in niche markets, such as sportswear, are more successful and sustainable. They identified key business models, including membership, subscription, and individual rental, and emphasized the importance of collaborations with suppliers and manufacturers.
SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalJournal of Business and Industrial Marketing·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 27, 2025
The ISS National Lab's new podcast, 'Between a Rocket & a Hard Space', offers exclusive insights from scientists, engineers, and visionaries on the future of space research. The first episode explores the groundbreaking science happening on the International Space Station, including its impact on medicine, technology, and industry.
SourceInternational Space Station U.S. National Laboratory·DateMar 26, 2025
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.
The grant aims to develop an electrochemical system capable of recovering uranium from wastewater, improving ecosystem health and addressing uranium security. The project will focus on designing electrode materials for efficient uranium extraction and minimizing toxic waste.
Researchers found that men in local leadership positions are unaware of gender biases and less likely to challenge stereotypes, while women actively work to break down these biases. The study suggests that greater awareness of gender in leadership can create more inclusive and effective leadership.
SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalContemporary Social Science·DateMar 25, 2025
Researchers have developed a new sensor to detect hazardous gas leaks in lithium-ion batteries, which could prevent catastrophic failures and enhance the reliability of battery-powered technologies. The sensor detects trace amounts of ethylene carbonate vapour, targeting potential battery failures before they escalate into disasters.
SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 20, 2025
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.
The event will feature major announcements in AI-driven networking, 1.6T advancements, quantum technologies, and next-gen optical innovations. Over 13,500 attendees are expected, with nearly 100 California-based companies participating.
Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a new carbon-negative building material that can be used to manufacture concrete, cement, plaster, and paint. By converting CO2 into solid, durable materials using electricity and seawater, the material not only stores CO2 but also produces clean hydrogen gas.
SourceNorthwestern University·JournalAdvanced Sustainable Systems·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 19, 2025
The workshop features a hands-on course in Sheffield and a scientific conference in Hamburg, covering topics like AI, material science, and equipment for granulation. Keynote speakers include Prof. Stefan Palzer, Jim Litster, Göran Alderborn, Arno Kwade, Lilia Ahrne, and Csaba Sinka.
Researchers developed a 'nano-spring coating' technology to increase the lifespan and energy density of EV batteries. The technology, featuring multi-walled carbon nanotubes, absorbs strain energy generated from charging and discharging, preventing cracks and improving stability.
SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalACS Nano·DateMar 13, 2025
Researchers have successfully demonstrated the environmental benefits of turning CO₂ emissions into key chemical ingredients for essential consumer goods. The study found that waste CO₂ can be part of the solution rather than the problem, reducing GWP by around 82% for paper mill emissions.
SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalJournal of CO2 Utilization·DateMar 13, 2025
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.
The Agrifood Economy Index rose to 94 in December, reflecting improving sentiment across the industry. The agricultural input manufacturing segment saw a four-point increase, while the production sector experienced a 22-point jump, driven by stabilizing commodity prices and post-election policy clarity.
The Florida Semiconductor Summit analyzed the state's foothold in semiconductor production, highlighting its momentum and opportunities. The summit addressed the growing demand for chips in space and defense, as well as the need to bridge the workforce gap with education and engagement initiatives.
Researchers at the University of Kansas are partnering with regional high schools to train about 500 students in AI coding and microelectronics. The program aims to develop a workforce that can specialize in AI and microelectronics, with a focus on community-centered projects and altruistic goals.
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.
A new study by UZH economists found that higher minimum wages lead firms to develop more automation technologies to reduce production costs. The study analyzed past labor market reforms and their impact on innovation trends, showing a 2% to 5% rise in innovation in response to a 1% wage increase.
SourceUniversity of Zurich·JournalJournal of Political Economy·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 25, 2025
Researchers at Microsoft Quantum Lab West Lafayette advanced complex layered materials for topological quantum computing. The team accurately measured the state of quasi particles, a crucial step towards realizing a topological quantum computer.
Researchers developed heteroepitaxial diamond quantum sensors with high sensitivity and accuracy for monitoring electric vehicle battery systems. The breakthrough could pave the way for widespread adoption in industries related to sustainable development.
SourceInstitute of Science Tokyo·JournalAdvanced Quantum Technologies·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 25, 2025
Camille Bilodeau's project uses AI and molecular simulations to design peptide-covered surfaces for targeted applications, including new medicines, water desalination, and semiconductor manufacturing. Her research group aims to develop a rapid predictive tool to understand surface-water interactions of tethered peptides.
SourceUniversity of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science·DateFeb 25, 2025
The partnership aims to develop AI-driven tools to improve investment decisions, enhance system stability through intelligent forecasting, and deploy smart optimisation algorithms. The collaboration seeks to address key challenges in smart energy storage by integrating Trinasolar's expertise with NTU's leading research.
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.
The University of Texas at Arlington is joining forces with the Texas A&M Engineering Experiment Station to operate a new biomanufacturing center. This partnership will expand UTA's capabilities and provide access to financial support and industry partners, enabling researchers to develop and commercialize production of new bioprod...
Researchers have developed a new technology that can turn thermal radiation into electricity in a way that exceeds the physical limit of Planck's law. The breakthrough could revolutionize manufacturing industries by increasing power generation without high temperature heat sources or expensive materials.
SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateFeb 17, 2025
Research from Edith Cowan University found that opportunistic recalls, where dealerships try to upsell during the process, lead to negative brand personality and protest behavior. However, protests can paradoxically strengthen customer loyalty if companies effectively manage the recall issue and engage with customers.
SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalJournal of Retailing and Consumer Services·TypeSurvey·DateFeb 16, 2025