Scene at MIT: A Black computing pioneer takes his place in technology history
A brief history of a 1950s photo featuring Joseph Thompson, one of the original operators of MIT’s groundbreaking Whirlwind computer.
Scientists as engaged citizens
In a new MIT class, students explore how STEM researchers bring their knowledge to major societal issues.
Ten “keys to reality” from Nobel laureate Frank Wilczek
To understand ourselves and our place in the universe, “we should have humility but also self-respect,” the physicist writes in a new book.
3 Questions: Phillip Sharp on the discoveries that enabled mRNA vaccines for Covid-19
Curiosity-driven basic science in the 1970s laid the groundwork for today’s leading vaccines against the novel coronavirus.
Exploring the lives of MIT pioneers through drama
In researching and writing a new play, undergraduates delved into the rise of several of MIT’s history-making students.
Biology community holds daylong program to address diversity and inclusion
In honor of #ShutDownSTEM, students, faculty, and staff facilitated virtual discussions to understand and combat anti-Black racism in academia.
Lincoln Laboratory decommissions Lincoln Experimental Satellite–9
After more than 44 years of providing satellite communications, the LES-9 workhorse retires from service with a record of groundbreaking technical achievement.
How growth of the scientific enterprise influenced a century of quantum physics
In a new book, Professor David Kaiser describes dramatic shifts in the history of an evolving discipline.
The case for economics — by the numbers
A multidecade study shows economics increasingly overlaps with other disciplines, and has become more empirical in nature.
MIT art installation aims to empower a more discerning public
With “In Event of Moon Disaster,” the MIT Center for Advanced Virtuality aims to educate the public on deepfakes with an alternative history of the moon landing.
PhD student Marc Aidinoff explores how technology impacts public policy
Historian's research focuses on understanding how visions for social and economic policy are tied to changing ideas about technology.
Historian of the hinterlands
In overlooked spots on the map, MIT Professor Kate Brown examines the turbulence of the modern world.
Meet Carolyn Stein: Researching the economics of science
MIT PhD student explores the impact of scientists being "scooped" when a competing research team publishes results first, a concern for many disciplines.
New science blooms after star researchers die, study finds
Deaths of prominent life scientists tend to be followed by a surge in highly cited research by newcomers.
Behind the scenes of the Apollo mission at MIT
From making the lunar landings possible to interpreting the meaning of the moon rocks, the Institute was a vital part of history.