Tackling counterfeit seeds with “unclonable” labels
Fake seeds can cost farmers more than two-thirds of expected crop yields and threaten food security. Trackable silk labels could help.
Detailed images from space offer clearer picture of drought effects on plants
J-WAFS researchers are using remote sensing observations to build high-resolution systems to monitor drought.
Gabriela Schlau-Cohen: Illuminating photosynthesis
Using ultrafast spectroscopy, the chemistry professor studies the energy transfer that occurs at femtosecond timescales inside plant leaves.
Nanotube sensors are capable of detecting and distinguishing gibberellin plant hormones
Developed at SMART, the nondestructive nanosensors could have wide applications in agricultural science.
Scientists identify a plant molecule that sops up iron-rich heme
The peptide is used by legumes to control nitrogen-fixing bacteria; it may also offer leads for treating patients with too much heme in their blood.
Charting the landscape at MIT
After 48 years with the Institute, Manager of Grounds Services Norman Magnuson reflects on his role in a changing campus and profession.
Toward customizable timber, grown in a lab
Researchers show they can control the properties of lab-grown plant material, which could enable the production of wood products with little waste.
MIT J-WAFS announces 2022 seed grant recipients
The grants total over $1 million in support of research that addresses issues in the water and food sectors.
Using plant biology to address climate change
A Climate Grand Challenges flagship project aims to reduce agriculture-driven emissions while making food crop plants heartier and more nutritious.
How molecular biology could reduce global food insecurity
Mary Gehring is using her background in plant epigenetics to grow climate-resilient crops.
New plant-derived composite is tough as bone and hard as aluminum
The material could pave the way for sustainable plastics.
Exploring growth within a confined space
Embedding bacteria in soft material tests researchers’ theories.
SMART researchers develop method for early detection of bacterial infection in crops
The Raman spectroscopy-based method enables early detection and quantification of pathogens in plants, to enhance plant disease management.
How marsh grass protects shorelines
As climate change brings greater threats to coastal ecosystems, new research can help planners leverage the wave-damping benefits of marsh plants.
The next generation of glowing plants
Using nanoparticles that store and gradually release light, engineers create light-emitting plants that can be charged repeatedly.