Blog

In a research world defined by scale and AI-driven discovery, small colleges are proving impact isn’t measured in dollars. At places like Wellesley and Bowdoin, close mentorship, collaborative problem-solving, and a readiness to experiment with new tools are shaping the next generation of scientists to navigate a rapidly evolving research landscape.

At the intersection of artificial intelligence and fundamental physics, the NSF Institute for Artificial Intelligence and Fundamental Interactions (IAIFI) is preparing scientists to learn, think and understand at the deepest levels. In its latest week-long Summer School program, students explored frontier challenges through lectures, tutorials, and collaborative hackathons, testing how AI can shape the future of physics, and how physics can push the boundaries of AI.

At Columbia University, quantum breakthroughs emerge from a culture of shared labs, ideas, and materials. What began as informal collaboration has become a scalable model for cross-disciplinary science that powers advances in programmable quantum systems.

The Flatiron Institute stands out for its bold model: full-time scientists, open-source tools, and a mission to accelerate discovery through computation. Its success across fields—from astrophysics to neuroscience—reflects the power of that approach.

Sloan Foundation president Adam Falk is stepping down this year after seven years leading the iconic organization. He spoke with FirstPrinciples about how the foundation’s philosophy has given it an outsized impact on scientific progress.

Could a new startup harness the laws of physics to build a computer chip that lessens the energy demands of artificial intelligence?

A decade into its existence, the Sponsoring Consortium for Open Access Publishing in Particle Physics unveils their latest innovation.

Offering full-stack open access to its trapped-ion quantum computer, Open Quantum Design and its partners aim to push the field forward.

Director Atish Dabholkar discusses the centre's storied history, belief in science without borders, and ambitions for the future.

Astrophysicist Katie Mack discusses the art of distilling intricate, interconnected ideas into concise, accessible, and engaging videos.