Engineering Design

  1. Tech

    Horses are inspiring this roboticist to build trustworthy robots

    Computer scientist Eakta Jain is looking at human-horse interactions for ideas about how to design robots that work well with people.

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  2. Plants

    A single particle of light can kick off photosynthesis

    In a new experiment with bacteria, a lone photon sparked the process of turning light to chemical energy.

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  3. Animals

    Explainer: What is animal domestication?

    The difference between a dog and a wolf isn’t looks or genes or even behavior. It’s the relationship these animals have with people.

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  4. Materials Science

    This house is partly made of recycled diapers

    After being washed, dried, sanitized and shredded, used diapers were mixed with other materials to make a strong concrete.

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  5. Physics

    Explainer: What is chaos theory?

    Chaos can help scientists explore subjects from climate change to human brains. Learn about the theory behind this field of science.

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  6. Computing

    Teen-created software IDs skin conditions, risky drivers and more

    Researchers at the 2023 Regeneron ISEF unveiled computer programs to diagnose skin conditions, warn of dangerous driving and translate sign language.

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  7. Brain

    Neuroscientists use brain scans to decode people’s thoughts

    The research may lead to new devices for people who can’t communicate easily. It also raises privacy concerns.

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  8. Climate

    For greener toilets and air conditioning, consider saltwater

    Using saltwater would allow coastal cities to save their freshwater for drinking and to reduce their carbon footprints. Some could save money, too.

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  9. Space

    Fairy tale inspiration could help rovers explore risky places

    Taking a cue from Hansel and Gretel, scientists propose a way for rovers to send back data from treacherous terrain.

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  10. Materials Science

    Analyze This: A new fabric mimics polar bears’ pelts for warmth

    With layers that work like polar bears’ skin and fur, a material absorbs light and keeps it from escaping.

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  11. Plants

    Could a plant ever eat a person?

    For now, humans aren’t on the menu for carnivorous plants. But what would it take for one to consume a person?

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  12. Environment

    Fungi help rescue crops being harmed by microplastics

    Microplastics in the soil hinder plant growth. But two finalists at Regeneron ISEF found that fungi and farm waste can reduce the harm.

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