Computing With Life
A cluster of living neurons grown in a dish has learned to play a video game. This emerging field of biological computing may change how we think about intelligence itself.
Latest
The Mathematics of Persuasion
The same processes that power artificial intelligence also exploit human psychology - here's the hidden truth about social media algorithms. The fundamental human desire to seek enjoyment often conflicts with our daily exposure to feelings of boredom and a lack of motivation. This dilemma has greatly contributed towards
How Neuroactivating Substances Change The Brain
Rising stimulant use among young adults raises a vital question: what do these drugs really do to the brain? This article uncovers how substances like cocaine, and even caffeine, rewire emotion, motivation, and control, revealing how short-term highs can leave lasting marks on the mind.
Tech Prosperity Deal: A Breakdown
The news has recently been filled with stories of Donald Trump’s 2nd state visit to the UK, the first time any US president had been invited for a second visit. Over roughly 24 hours from his arrival on the 17th of September to the morrow, he was entertained with
Square Wheels and Tech Traction
From flop to the top. What the once-mocked square steering wheel and electric glasses can teach us about technological innovation.
Can We Colonise Mars?
It has been pitched as everything from humanity’s ‘backup’ planet to Elon Musk’s future retirement home. For decades, the concept of humans living on Mars has been a topic of interest whether it's between space scientists, sustainability experts or even science-fiction writers. SpaceX openly talks about
The Hand-Cannon: What Was In Between Cannons and Modern Guns?
At some point during the 12th and 13th centuries, warfare and history in general were changed forever. The first cannon was invented in China, likely based on an earlier gunpowder weapon known as the fire lance. The technology spread all around the known (at the time) world. The design was
Nature’s Blueprint: How Some of Humanity’s Best Designs Come From The Natural World
In a world that is constantly seeking new and innovative solutions, scientists, engineers, and designers are turning to an unexpected source of inspiration: nature itself. Biomimicry, the practice of learning from and mimicking the strategies found in the natural world, has driven breakthroughs in everything from architecture and medicine to
Nuclear Fusion: The Power Of Future
As decades go by, the common sources of energy, like coal, fossil fuels or natural gases, are coming to extinction. While renewable power plants like wing turbines or solar panels can be used to extract energy, it won’t be enough to power the whole world. So, in order to
How Does ChatGPT Work?
89% of students admitted to using ChatGPT for assignments according to a study by Forbes yet most scientists who develop AI can’t fully tell you how it works. ChatGPT can write essays, generate creative works, assist in scientific research and have in-depth conversations but yet if you were to
Self-Healing Polymers
Dive into the uses, mechanisms, and chemistry behind these cutting-edge materials, and the inevitable challenges that such creations might face in practice
Mathematics in politics
Introduction Since around 500 B.C., the ancient Greek civilization introduced one of the earliest forms of democracy. Back then, voters would write their choices on broken pieces of pottery called ‘ostraka’. Imagine a world where the outcome of a major election isn’t just about the number of people
Stay Curious, Be Adaptable: A Profile of Sanjay Patel OE
Sanjay Patel and his wife Leslie were involved in the rebuilding of a wind tunnel. That I couldn’t grab a second to ask why indicates the pace of a Sanjay Patel conversation. He’s a whirlwind of insight, brilliance and empathy, his thoughts speeding far ahead of one’s
Engineering
Relief Channels and Re-Meandering to Mitigate Flooding
Floods can devastate cities, but what if we fought water with nature instead of just concrete? While relief channels redirect raging rivers, a quieter revolution is unfolding: re-meandering rivers to slow floods, restore ecosystems, and rethink how we shape the land.
Engineering
Learning from Air Accident Investigations
In 1989, a hidden engine defect doomed United Flight 232, killing 112. Decades later, Qantas Flight 32 suffered a similar failure but landed safely. Smarter systems and lessons learned turned potential tragedy into triumph. Two flights, one cause, two very different outcomes.
Engineering
Quantum Batteries – Powering the Future at the Speed of Light?
Quantum batteries could revolutionise energy storage, offering faster charging and higher capacity. While still experimental, early prototypes show promise, potentially transforming how we power electric vehicles and renewable systems.
Computer Science
A Quantum Leap Forward — Google’s Willow Chip
Two months ago, as you were opening the ninth window on your advent calendar mid-way through Trials, Google announced what may be the biggest breakthrough to date in the field of quantum computing. What has, for a long time, simply been an intellectual curiosity of some physicists came a lot
The Lockheed F-117 Nighthawk - A Revolution in Aerial Combat
The F-117 Nighthawk redefined aerial combat with groundbreaking stealth technology, overcoming extreme engineering challenges to become a precision bomber that evaded both radar and infrared detection.
Biology
From Commensal to Pathogen: The Mechanisms Behind Bacteria
Explore the roles of host susceptibility, virulence factors, genetic adaptation, and environmental triggers in the sudden change of the bacteria from commensal to virulent
Chemistry
Alfred Nobel's Life and Legacy
An introduction to the complicated life and contrasting legacy of the man behind the prizes.
Biochemistry
Quantum Genetics
When people think of genetic mutations, they would normally think that they're caused by radiation, carcinogens or copying errors when replicating DNA. However, recent studies show quantum tunnelling also has an effect here.
Physics
Superalloys in Aerospace
An introduction to the incredible materials which make modern aviation possible.
Engineering
Fast Cars and Cheese - The Eton College Design Trip 2025
Fast cars, cheese, and cutting-edge design. The Eton College 2025 Design trip to Italy blended roaring engines with rich tradition. From Ferrari and Ducati to Parmigiano Reggiano, students explored engineering, culture, and craftsmanship at its finest.
Computer Science
Vacuum tubes and computing
Andrew Jia In the modern world, vacuum tubes see use in a very limited range of applications and may be regarded as obsolete technology. However, they have played an important role in computing history. The first vacuum tube device was conceived in 1904 by John Fleming and took the form