Content for UMN.Edu

Energy researchers invent error-free catalysts

“A team of researchers from the University of Minnesota, University of Massachusetts Amherst, University of Delaware, and University of California Santa Barbara have invented oscillating catalyst technology that can accelerate chemical reactions without side reactions or chemical errors. The groundbreaking …

Research Brief: Atomic-scale imaging reveals secret to thin film strength

“An international team of scientists and engineers, led by University of Minnesota Associate Professor K. Andre Mkhoyan and Professor Emeritus Michael Tsapatsis (currently, a Bloomberg Distinguished Professor at Johns Hopkins University), have made a discovery that could further advance the …

New graphene-based device is first step toward ultrasensitive biosensors

“Researchers in the University of Minnesota College of Science and Engineering have developed a unique new device using the wonder material graphene that provides the first step toward ultrasensitive biosensors to detect diseases at the molecular level with near perfect …

Research Brief: Researchers 3D print prototype for ‘bionic eye’

“A team of researchers at the University of Minnesota have, for the first time, fully 3D printed an array of light receptors on a hemispherical surface. This discovery marks a significant step toward creating a “bionic eye” that could someday …

New material could improve efficiency of computer processing and memory

“A team of researchers led by the University of Minnesota has developed a new material that could potentially improve the efficiency of computer processing and memory. The researchers have filed a patent on the material with support from the Semiconductor …

Research Brief: UMN researchers develop DIY field imaging system

“Farmers and plant breeders can now build their own automated field camera track system to collect data on dynamic plant traits, such as crop lodging and movement, as it’s happening in the field to help reduce losses in crop …

Scientists discover new magnetic element

“This schematic illustrates how a tetragonal phase of Ru has been forced using ultra thin film growth methods. Credit: University of Minnesota, Quarterman et al, Nature Communications A new experimental discovery, led by researchers at the University of Minnesota, demonstrates …

Researchers 3-D print electronics and cells directly on skin

“In a groundbreaking new study, researchers at the University of Minnesota used a customized, low-cost 3D printer to print electronics on a real hand for the first time. The technology could be used by soldiers on the battlefield to print …

New discovery could improve brain-like memory and computing

“University of Minnesota researchers demonstrate the existence of a new kind of magnetoresistance involving topological insulators From various magnetic tapes, floppy disks and computer hard disk drives, magnetic materials have been storing our electronic information along with our valuable knowledge …

Researchers steer the flow of electrical current with spinning light

“Discovery could improve microelectronics and optical communication MINNEAPOLIS / ST. PAUL (12/19/2017) — Light can generate an electrical current in semiconductor materials. This is how solar cells generate electricity from sunlight and how smart phone cameras can take photographs. To …

Researchers develop graphene nano ‘tweezers’ that can grab individual biomolecules

“Discovery could lead to revolutionary handheld disease diagnostic system Researchers from the University of Minnesota College of Science and Engineering have found yet another remarkable use for the wonder material graphene—tiny electronic “tweezers” that can grab biomolecules floating in …

UMN research shows people can control robotic arm with their minds

“Researchers at the University of Minnesota have made a major breakthrough that allows people to control a robotic arm using only their minds. The research has the potential to help millions of people who are paralyzed or have neurodegenerative diseases …