News on the grants and awards that fuel scientific work. Covers federal grants, foundation awards, gene-editing and disease programs, and shifts in funding policy.
A new project at Aarhus University aims to develop Denmark's first reactor for carbon-negative hydrogen production from biogas using catalytic pyrolysis. The technology converts captured CO2 into solid form while producing hydrogen, reducing energy consumption by one-fifth compared to green hydrogen production.
Cancer Research UK launches a global consultation for the Cancer Grand Challenges initiative, inviting researchers, patient advocates, and the public to submit ideas for tackling cancer's toughest challenges. The consultation aims to identify select challenges that could revolutionize cancer research, with the goal of shaping funding a...
Researchers have validated a new theory for molecular diffusion in polymer matrices, explaining how molecules move through complex media. The study found that temperature and molecule size significantly impact transport rates, enabling the design of more selective polymer membranes.
Researchers have demonstrated a power-efficient component for demultiplexing operation using silicon photonic MEMS, enabling efficient wavelength demultiplexing for fiber-optic communications. The compact footprint of the add-drop filter allows fast operation compared to established MEMS products.
Researchers develop Janus Bi, a platform for creating highly asymmetrical nano-architectures with 2D materials, inspired by nature's efficient light transformation processes. The project aims to produce scalable nanotechnological objects with light conversion capabilities.
Researchers have developed self-sufficient, three-dimensionally deforming material systems with integrated actuators and sensors. These systems improve robustness and enable customisation of complex patterns at desired locations.
Carter School researchers Karina Korostelina and Susan Allen received $499,960 funding from the US Department of State for research on contact theory in democracy and governance. The grant will support their work until September 2025.
Researchers at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz develop an electrochemical technique to recover halogens without burning carbon structures, reducing emissions and stabilizing energy supplies. The project aims to contribute to a circular economy of halogens and reduce dependence on fossil reserves.
Elisa Riedo's team has discovered a fundamental friction law, leading to the design of two-dimensional materials capable of minimizing energy loss. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient manufacturing processes, greener vehicles, and a sustainable world.
Researchers at Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center are developing non-invasive biomarkers for radiation exposure using Raman spectroscopy and mass spectrometry-based methods. The project aims to improve early detection and risk assessment of radiation exposure, which can lead to serious health problems and delayed consequences.
Researchers from the University of Kassel developed an approach to extend the limits of interferometric topography measurements for optical resolution below small structures. Microsphere assistance enables fast and label-free imaging without requiring extensive sample preparation.
A UMass Amherst epidemiologist is investigating how physical and mental health during pregnancy can predict cardiovascular and mental health disorders in middle age. Pregnancy complications may be associated with poorer cardiometabolic health and mental health status in middle adulthood among Puerto Rican women.
A new funding grant will be used to investigate the effectiveness of 'Fastball EEG' in detecting three major types of dementia, including frontotemporal dementia and Vascular Dementia. The technology has shown high accuracy in picking up small changes in brain waves associated with memory recall.
The University of Minnesota is leading a comprehensive global clinical study to reveal the functional effects of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) across the human body. The $21M REVEAL project aims to assess autonomic, cardiovascular, metabolic, immune, and gastrointestinal function in response to VNS parameters.
The INSPIRE project aims to close the gender gap in research careers and promote inclusivity. It will create a sustainable centre of excellence, set the worldwide standard for research on inclusive gender equality, and provide practical support for institutions implementing gender equality plans.
A team of researchers from Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz have successfully developed a new approach to improve the way data is processed and stored. By combining chirality in spin configurations and molecules, they aim to create faster, smaller, and more efficient data storage devices.
A multidisciplinary team will investigate how spatial patterns can prevent tipping points in ecosystems and promote resilience to climate change. The RESILIENCE project aims to identify novel directions to evade catastrophic ecosystem collapse.
The study focuses on reducing insects and pathogens that threaten crops, with manure serving as a potential solution. Researchers will investigate the most effective ways to apply manure to improve soil health and plant resistance to insect pests.
The European Union has awarded a €11.3 million grant to the HEAVYMETAL research project, which aims to investigate chemical element synthesis in neutron star mergers. The project brings together experts from different fields to explore kilonova explosions and decipher the details of observed spectra.
A team of WVU researchers is studying how people bounce back after disastrous flooding, using lessons learned from the 2016 West Virginia flood. The project aims to create a more effective framework for flood response and community recovery in West Virginia, with a focus on identifying gaps in organizational capacity and improving floo...
The New York Stem Cell Foundation (NYSCF) has selected six early-career researchers to join its prestigious investigator program, which provides $1.5 million in funding over five years. The award aims to accelerate treatments and cures through cutting-edge research.
A UMass Amherst researcher is developing an eco-friendly drift reduction agent using essential oils derived from food waste to reduce pesticide use, while also creating a potentially scalable process for plant-based seafood that mimics the texture of fish meat.
Researchers found that higher levels of cell-free DNA in the blood are associated with increased cognitive decline and worsening frailty over an eight-year period. The study suggests that a simple blood test could detect risk of Alzheimer's disease and other forms of cognitive decline, potentially leading to early interventions.
Researchers analyzing over 3,000 blood samples from Alzheimer's patients and healthy individuals to identify reliable biomarkers. They investigate how well blood tests can diagnose Alzheimer's disease and predict its progression.
Researchers at the University of Illinois are investigating maize roots for organic and regenerative systems to optimize carbon storage, resource use efficiency, and productivity. They aim to develop corn varieties that provide ecosystem services even under changing weather scenarios.
Researchers collaborated with livestock producers, natural resource managers, and university-based researchers to develop effective fencing designs that reduce wildlife conflicts and prioritize human safety. The study highlights the importance of integrating diverse knowledge and experience to inform fencing projects.
The University of Illinois has received a $30 million investment from USAID to develop soybean value chains across Sub-Saharan Africa. The project aims to remove last-mile obstacles to technology adoption, including seed, productivity-improvement, and credit issues.
Alzheimer's researchers highlight the need for more diverse participation in clinical trials, citing underrepresentation of African Americans and Latinos. They offer solutions to improve recruitment, including culturally sensitive cognitive tests and partnerships with community organizations.
The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture has received a $750,000 grant to study native warm-season perennial grasses for organic livestock feed production. Researchers aim to improve soil health and agronomic practices in the southeastern US by integrating warm-season grasses into tall fescue systems.
Researcher Giuseppe Loianno receives $1 million grant from DARPA to develop USARC robots that can autonomously collaborate in teams. The project aims to create robots capable of executing maneuvers with superior performances compared to human-controlled or current autonomous ground and aerial robots.
Researchers developed a computational platform to identify metabolic vulnerabilities in ovarian cancer genes, suggesting opportunities for targeted therapies. The study found that certain genetic alterations can create vulnerabilities in cancer cell metabolism, which can be exploited to selectively kill cancer cells.
UK researchers recommend recruiting highly skilled scientists and volunteer staff to provide surge capacity for testing capacity. The system aims to hit the ground running in case of future outbreaks.
Researchers are studying the interaction between obesity and nitric oxide synthase in triple-negative breast cancer, aiming to develop a new treatment strategy. Another team is investigating the role of NHE6 protein in multiple myeloma resistance to daratumumab treatment, with the goal of improving therapy outcomes for patients.
A new Perspective piece calls for a radical response to the climate crisis in science, particularly in agriculture and food systems. The authors emphasize the need for transformative adaptation that prioritizes social equity and brings together all stakeholders.
The University of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture has received a $30 million grant to empower grassland farmers in climate-smart agriculture. The project aims to enhance operation resilience and optimize profitability while improving soil health and biodiversity.
Researchers from the Institute of Physical Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences developed a novel time-resolved NMR method to study complex chemical processes. The method combines time-resolved diffusion NMR and time-resolved nonuniform sampling, allowing for detailed studies with high resolution and real-time monitoring.
Sooby's research aims to develop an AI algorithm to rapidly provide high-quality data during alloy fabrication, reducing time and cost. Her lab collaborates with Computer Science professor Amanda Fernandez to leverage deep learning approaches for image labeling, increasing efficiency by 99%.
Researchers aim to create intelligent drones that can autonomously inspect coal waste storage facilities, detecting cracks and deformities with thermal and visual images. The drones will be equipped with AI-based software to identify potential hazards, providing a faster and long-term solution to prevent environmental damage.
The Texas Climate-Smart Initiative aims to expand climate-smart commodity markets and leverage greenhouse gas benefits. Project partners will provide technical and financial assistance to producers to implement climate-smart production practices.
Researchers at UTIA are using a $800,000 grant from Shell to investigate the potential of winter oilseed crops as a sustainable solution for agriculture and biofuels. The project aims to identify top oilseed crops for the Mid-South and Southeast regions and develop best management practices to maximize outputs.
For seven years after bariatric surgery, participants showed clinically important improvements in pain levels, physical function, and work productivity, with some backsliding over time. The study found durable effects on walking speed, fitness, and most metrics of pain, even among older adults.
Investigative journalist Paul Thacker found that fossil fuel companies funded research on climate change to weaken messages and protect their interests. Many students at elite universities are now calling for them to cut ties with the industry, citing examples such as carbon capture technology as a prime example of the problem.
The University of Missouri has received a $25 million grant from the USDA to help farmers adapt to climate change through climate-smart practices. The five-year project aims to improve crop and livestock resilience on up to 500,000 acres of Missouri farmland.
The Center for BrainHealth has launched three research projects to develop objective metrics of improved brain systems in response to interventions. These projects aim to determine the changes in the brain's physiology, structure, and function linked to gains in comprehensive psycho-social measurements over time.
A £1 million grant from the Bezos Earth Fund will support a new initiative aimed at identifying and activating 'positive tipping points' to accelerate decarbonization and limit climate change. The project will focus on improving assessment, forecasting, and activation of positive tipping points across various sectors.
WaveLogix, a tech startup, has received a six-month SBIR Phase I grant from the National Science Foundation to develop its Internet of Things sensing system for infrastructure monitoring. The Rebel brand of concrete strength sensors directly measures real-time, in-place concrete strength without destructive testing.
Researchers aim to improve and expand Enzymatic Construction Material (ECM), a sustainable alternative to traditional concrete that can repair cracks and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The grant will also support programs to inspire girls' interests in engineering and construction, addressing the industry's gender gap.
The NEUROCOV project seeks to understand the interplay between SARS-CoV-2 infection and the nervous system, with a focus on immune response and neuronal functions. The research aims to predict risk for neurological symptoms and develop effective treatments.
The U.S. Department of Energy has renewed funding for a research center studying molten salts, which have potential applications in improving the safety and efficiency of nuclear power. The center, led by Brookhaven National Laboratory, will receive $13.3 million over four years to advance our understanding of molten salt properties.
A WVU professor is developing advanced software and a simulation lab to enhance power grid crisis response. The research aims to create flexible, precise, and rapid responses from both network infrastructures and human grid operators.
A new project led by University of Illinois researchers aims to empower librarians with a toolkit for creating data-driven stories. The initiative, backed by an $99,330 grant, will provide easy-to-use templates for visualizing and structuring data narratives.
A University of Kentucky-led project aims to understand how aquatic biodiversity in the Great Rift Valley is affected by climate change. The five-year study, funded by $2.5 million from the NSF, will assess scenarios of climate change and its effects on lake ecosystems using high-resolution geological records and genetic tools.
A combination of immunotherapy and virotherapy using myxoma virus provides new hope for patients with treatment resistant cancers. The approach boosts the immune capacity to effectively target and destroy cancer cells, inducing a form of cell death called autosis.
A University of Massachusetts Amherst psychologist is using a $428,000 NIH grant to develop a home-based system that tracks preschoolers' tantrums and predicts mental illness risk. The system uses wearable devices and machine learning algorithms to identify high-risk children and provide critical information to parents.
A three-year project aims to research novel pest management tools for cotton production by modifying terpene biosynthesis in cotton using a transgene-free CRISPR/CAS9 approach. The goal is to silence genes that produce monoterpenes, reducing infestations and pesticide use.
The University of Delaware and the University of New Mexico are collaborating on a $4 million grant to develop quantum photonics technologies. This initiative aims to prepare a skilled workforce for the growing quantum computing market, projected to grow from $486 million in 2021 to $3.2 billion by 2028.
Researchers at UVA have discovered the mechanism behind gene regulation during organ development, shedding light on how genetic material interacts with transcription factors to create different cell types. The study's findings could offer insights into the initiation of certain cancers and inspire new therapeutic development.
A deep learning algorithm can identify non-small cell lung cancer tumors on CT scans within seconds, reducing treatment planning time and improving consistency. Radiation oncologists using the algorithm worked 65% faster and with 32% less variation than those not using it.
The University of Kentucky's Sanders-Brown Center on Aging has received a $1.5 million grant to further research a possible treatment for Alzheimer's disease. The grant will help move work forward on a brain-penetrant, small molecule drug candidate called MW189.
Researchers will conduct a national survey to identify barriers to adopting price risk management tools and assess perceptions of tool effectiveness. A free mobile application will be developed to provide information needed for making informed decisions, aiming to improve US beef cattle producers' economic sustainability.