Science & Technology Archives - News Center

Two male researchers sit in a dimly lit office and look at a large computer screen displaying red and green chevrons in motion. One researcher is wearing an eye-tracking device.

Science & Technology

The brain uses eye movements to see in 3D

February 4, 2026

Contrary to long-standing beliefs, motion from eye movements helps the brain perceive depth—a finding that could enhance virtual reality.

Five unsinkable metal tubes bound together and seen from above floating in water with bubbles nearby and an overall blue cast.

Science & Technology

Scientists engineer unsinkable metal tubes

January 27, 2026

The superhydrophobic design could lead to resilient ships, floating platforms, and renewable energy innovations.

Illustration of a light-matter state called a polariton.

Science & Technology

URochester awarded Keck Foundation funding to tackle chemistry grand challenge

January 23, 2026

The cutting-edge project aims to harness quantum light to unlock new chemical processes.

Science & Technology

Engineering a low-cost alternative catalyst for producing sustainable petrochemicals

January 22, 2026

Newly identified methods to harness the properties of tungsten carbide could yield viable substitutes for precious metals like platinum.

Illustration of a super-earth shown with cross-sections revealing the deep layer of molten rock known as the basal magma ocean that could produce magnetic fields for super-earths.

Science & Technology

Hidden magma oceans could shield rocky exoplanets from harmful radiation

January 15, 2026

New research suggests that molten rock deep inside so-called super-earths may generate powerful magnetic fields necessary for sustaining life.

A young woman with pigtails wearing headphones and a blue sweatshirt is listening to music against the sky from a low wide angle.

Science & Technology

Are humans predisposed to understand the complexities of music?

January 6, 2026

Listeners—regardless of formal musical training—can track complex tonal structures, offering a unique look at how the brain processes context.

Steve Lim and Walter McDonald smile while seated in chairs against a bright yellow background.

Science & Technology

Undergraduates launch affordable AI receptionist service

December 19, 2025

Walter McDonald ’27 and Stephen Lim ’27 created OrbitPhone to help small businesses manage calls and appointments.

Students test AR/VR smart glasses in a classroom, with one gesturing while others watch and discuss the experience.

Science & Technology

Student-created AR/VR tools help everywhere from the classroom to the operating room

December 18, 2025

Transdisciplinary class empowers emerging technologists to develop AR/VR solutions using AI and the latest hardware from Meta and Snap Inc.

Illustration of Earth, the sun, and the moon, with atmospheric particles flying about them to illustrate how lunar soil ended up with particles from Earth.

Science & Technology

Earth’s atmosphere may help support human life on the moon

December 11, 2025

New research shows that Earth’s magnetic field has helped deliver atmospheric particles to the lunar surface over billions of years.

Adam Frank against a white background an a thought bubble that reads: "ever wonder do aliens exist"?

Science & Technology

Are aliens real? Do aliens exist? Technosignatures may hold new clues

November 23, 2025

URochester astrophysicist Adam Frank searches for traces of advanced technology—and, by extension, alien life—on exoplanets.

Science & Technology

Barry Silverstein ’84 to help lead the future of AR/VR at URochester

November 19, 2025

The former senior director and chief technology officer of optics and display in Meta’s Reality Labs will direct the Center for Extended Reality.

Marisol Herrera-Perez standing with her arms crossed next to a shelf of lab equipment.

Science & Technology

Uncovering how cells build tissues and organs

November 18, 2025

URochester engineers are exploring the mechanical signals that guide development, to gain insights into disease and regenerative medicine.