11 Rising Stars of Science
These newcomers are making their mark in research across a variety of fields
Stories by Katherine Bourzac
Physicists Make a 2-D Magnet
The breakthrough could lead to better data-storage devices and quantum computers
Can Chemists Turn Pollution into Gold?
Scientists are trying to convert carbon dioxide emissions into something of value—without using too much energy
New Sunscreen "Sticks" to the Skin
The active ingredients are encapsulated in nanoparticles, which prevent the chemicals from seeping into the body
Bionic Roses Implanted with Electronic Circuits
Materials scientists nonplussed by wired-up plants with color-changing leaves
Xerox PARC Materials Scientists Print Two Thirds of a Battery in 1 Go
The method squeezes out multiple parts at once—like striped toothpaste from the tube
Rubbery Glass Arrives
A new concoction exhibits both hardness and elasticity
Moths Inspire Antireflective Coating that Could Help Devices Capture Light
A plastic film that mimics the microsized lenses in the compound eye of a moth could help boost solar cell efficiency and sharpen image sensors' views
Self-Propelled Micromotors Take Their First Swim in the Body
Microsized tubes can now zip around in a mouse’s stomach and deliver cargo, suggesting the potential for improved functions of nanoparticle drug carriers and imaging agents
Touch Sensors Can Now Mimic Our Skin's Detection of Stretching and Twisting
The technology could be used to improve the functionality of prosthetic devices and robotics
Bendy Screens a Step Closer
New progress in flexible displays
Biology: Three Known Unknowns
Even as cancer therapies improve, basic questions about drug resistance, tumour spread and the role of normal tissue remain unanswered
Graphene’s Dark Side
The wonder material may pose risks if spilled
Highest Possible Resolution Color Images Achieved
Images made of metal-nanostructure pixels could be used for security or optical data storage
Physicists Invent First Tabletop X-Ray Source
The compact device promises to open a window on chemical reactions in the lab