News

Troy, N.Y. — Using a series of interactive computer programs that focus on the mathematics embedded in various cultural designs, students from across the country in grades 4-12 have shown a statistically significant increase in their math achievement scores. Now a new National Science Foundation (NSF) grant in excess of $300,000 will help the Rensselaer researcher who developed these programs extend their use to help engage underrepresented minority students in the subject of computing.

Frank Spear honored for his work to understand Earth’s history and formation Troy, N.Y. — Frank Spear, department chair and professor of earth and environmental sciences at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, has been elected as a fellow of the American Geophysical Union (AGU).

Troy, N.Y. — Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have discovered new details about how bacteria generate energy to live. In two recently published papers, the scientists add key specifics to the molecular mechanism behind the pathogen that causes cholera. The work could provide a better understanding of this pathogen, while also offering insight into how cells transform energy from the environment into the forms required to sustain life.

Degree prepares students to create innovative solutions to 21st century design challenges Troy, N.Y. — Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute recently added a bachelor of science degree in Design, Innovation, and Society (DIS) to its list of innovative undergraduate degree offerings. Through a rigorous series of design studios, the major will prepare students to design new products, services, and media while considering the social needs and environmental concerns of the 21st century.

Winning ideas range from water purification device to organic materials for home insulation Troy, N.Y. — Four entries were recognized today as the winning ideas of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute’s “Change the World Challenge” competition. Created in 2005 by Rensselaer alumnus Sean O’Sullivan ’85, the competition is intended to support entrepreneurship education and inspire ideas to improve the human condition by providing a $1,000 cash award for ideas that will make the world a better place. 

Troy, N.Y. — Using powerful computers to model the intricate dance of atoms and molecules, researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have revealed the mechanism behind an important biological reaction. In collaboration with scientists from the Wadsworth Center of the New York State Department of Health, the team is working to harness the reaction to develop a “nanoswitch” for a variety of applications, from targeted drug delivery to genomics and proteomics to sensors.

Troy, N.Y. — Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have found a new pathway by which cells change their adhesive properties. With a $1.4 million grant from the National Institutes of Health, they plan to fill in the details behind how cells decide to stick to a surface, which could lead to a better understanding of the importance of this pathway to the physiology and development of organisms.

Discovery May Lead to Further Development of Compounds to Treat Central Nervous System Disorders and Addiction

New wires could create better nanotube interconnects and devices Troy, N.Y. — A team of researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute has created hybrid structures that combine the best properties of carbon nanotubes and metal nanowires. The new structures, which are described in a recent issue of Applied Physics Letters, could help overcome some of the key hurdles to using carbon nanotubes in computer chips, displays, sensors, and many other electronic devices.

Troy, N.Y. — Kevin Craig, professor of mechanical, aerospace, and nuclear engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, is featured in a new videocast series launched by Design News magazine. Titled “Mechatronics: 21st Century Design Engineering,” the video features case studies covering mechatronic design from prototype to deployment.