Science press releases

people walking in new york ctiy

Human biology is ill-adapted to modern cities – new study

A new study has found that modern cities are having a huge impact on our health and wellbeing.
From left to right, Professor Alexander Balanov, Professor Sergey Saveliev, and Dr Pavel Borisov, of the Loughborough University Department of Physics. The scientists are part of a team of international researchers that have created a new artificial neuron that can mimic different parts of the brain – which could be the key to more human-like robotics.

Scientists create artificial neuron that can mimic different parts of the brain – a major step towards human-like robotics

Robots that can sense and respond to the world like humans may soon be a reality as scientists have created an artificial neuron capable of mimicking different parts of the brain.
A wound being dressed on an arm by a medical professional

New partnership to look at microneedle technologies for rapid wound infection detection and treatment

Loughborough University and Egypt’s National Research Centre (NRC) have begun a joint networking project to accelerate the use of microneedle technologies for rapid wound pathogen detection and treatment, bringing together clinicians, scientists, engineers and industries from both countries.
R3V container concept (AI)

Scientists’ electrochemical process enables biodiesel producers to transform waste into planet-friendly profit

An electrochemical process developed by scientists at a Loughborough University spin-out company enables biodiesel producers to turn waste into profit – while slashing emissions and energy use.

a person on a treadmill

Exercise could promote recovery following COVID-19, study finds

New research has found that exercise can help restore the immune system after COVID-19, easing symptoms such as fatigue, joint pain, and other long-term effects.
The sun reflecting off solar panels

Solar breakthrough – hotter panels mean better storage

Scientists have uncovered a surprising advantage in next-generation solar technology... the hotter it gets, the better it can store energy
a close up of cameras in place to capture a tennis player's serve

Wimbledon in focus: Advantage Loughborough – serving up research and innovation in tennis (VIDEO)

Loughborough University is using science to its advantage as new research examines how tennis players can improve the power, accuracy, and consistency of their serve.
The nanoscale violin under a microscope

Loughborough University physicists create ‘the world’s smallest violin’ using nanotechnology

Physicists at Loughborough University have used cutting-edge nanotechnology to create what they believe may be ‘the world’s smallest violin’, which is small enough to fit within the width of a human hair.
Materials pressured between two graphene layers melt in complex ways. Illustration: Ville Heirola/Aalto University.

Physicists use artificial intelligence to reveal how layered gases and metals melt

A team of physicists – including a Nobel Prize winner – has used artificial intelligence to uncover how layered materials melt and shift between physical states when confined to two dimensions.
Digital drawing of blue sperm swimming on a black background

Scientists uncover how microswimmers move faster in groups – paving the way for tiny drug-delivering robots

Scientists have revealed how tiny swimming cells – such as sperm and bacteria – are able to move faster when travelling as a group, and the research could accelerate the development of microscopic robots that deliver drugs to specific regions of the body.

steak cooking on a grill

Processed red meat isn’t just bad for your heart, it’s also associated with dementia

Less red meat is good for the planet and a growing number of people have started the new year resolving to pursue a meat-free diet.
A person holding a magnifying glass to a microchip board.

Next generation computers: new wiring material could transform chip technology

The rapid technological advancements of our world have been enabled by our capacity to design and fabricate ever smaller electronic chips. These underpin computers, mobile phones and every smart device deployed to date.
A sundew carnivorous plants digesting a fly

Sundews’ secret to survival: Study reveals how carnivorous plants adapt to microhabitat challenges

Scientists have uncovered how sundews, Charles Darwin’s favourite plant, become more carnivorous in certain habitats.
Cyanobacteria filaments under a microscope.

Scientists unravel how ancient bacteria weave living mats – solving one of nature’s oldest mysteries (FEATURE)

Scientists have uncovered how cyanobacteria — Earth's first photosynthetic organisms — self-organise into intricate living mats, offering insights into aquatic ecosystems and potential inspiration for material design.
Smart nanoparticles

Computer simulations to aid in Loughborough push for more effective drug delivery

A Loughborough University project will use computer simulations and practical experiments to explore whether there’s a safer, more effective way for smart polymer nanoparticles to be designed for drug delivery and medical imaging.
Concept image showing an atom and electrons surrounding it with wavelengths going through the middle. Rainbow-colour scheme on a black background

Physicists' breakthrough in fine-tuning electron behaviour in quantum materials could fast-track next generation of technology

Physicists at Loughborough University have made an exciting breakthrough in understanding how to fine-tune the behaviour of electrons in quantum materials poised to drive the next generation of advanced technologies.

the 'loughborough university' sign outside campus

World-class ‘accelerator’ to speed development of crucial rehabilitation technologies

A world-class impact accelerator will connect hundreds of East Midlands MedTech SMEs with health and care professionals, academics and the public to drive the design, development and delivery of pioneering rehabilitation technologies.
A shot of the Think Human exhibition in Derby.

Museum exhibit showcases Loughborough's excellence in ergonomics & human factors

A museum exhibit developed in collaboration with Loughborough University is showcasing how ergonomics helps human development – from securing Olympic gold medals for Team GB to helping navigate rail stations and delivering progress to latest cancer treatments.
Image from an MRI scan showing a human face pointing to the left and the human brain can be seen.

Expert explainer: Why identifying lifestyle changes and treatments that reduce dementia risk is complicated

Studies that find a reduction in dementia risk through lifestyle changes and treatments are frequently reported in the news.
The drosera carnivorous plant

New discovery fundamentally changes the way we understand Charles Darwin’s most beloved plant – the sundew

A new study has found a symbiotic relationship that has evolved between Darwin’s favourite carnivorous plant and a specific type of fungus which lives inside it and helps it digest its prey.
Two researchers in the Emergent Photonics Research Centre

Loughborough University to play key role in new £21.9m quantum technology hub

Loughborough University researchers are to play a key role in a new £21.9m government-funded quantum technology hub.

a test tube behind held by a gloved hand

Doping in sport – what’s the testing process? (VIDEO)

Ahead of a busy summer of sport, the issue of doping remains firmly in the news headlines.
A researcher in the Emergent Photonics Research Centre

Emergent Photonics Research Centre opens at Loughborough University

Loughborough University has launched a new research centre dedicated to revolutionising science and technology through photonics – the study of lasers and light waves.
a woman wearing mouthpiece technology

Loughborough University developing breath test to predict health in older people

Loughborough University research is underway to develop a breath test to predict when health and physical function is at risk of declining in older people.
A gel lifter being used to lift fingerprints by a person in blue gloves

New hope for cold cases due to breakthrough in forensic fingerprint research

Researchers have unveiled a groundbreaking method capable of detecting drug substances from fingerprints lifted from crime scenes, which could provide fresh insights into unsolved cases.