Claustrophobic Cells

Main-sequence stars with brighter than expected mid-infrared emission can signal the presence of a debris disk, rubble from planetary collisions, or even a theorized sign of a technologically advanced civilization. New research demonstrates a data-driven method to identify mid-infrared excesses in main-sequence stars.

Astrophysics to physical oceanography. String theory to machine learning. High energy theory to biophysics. Such leaps in research focus can be challenging—and rewarding. Learn how the Simons Foundation's Pivot Fellowship encourage such research switches across STEM fields.

No sunlight reaches this region 200 to 1,000 meters below the sea surface, where levels of iron, a key micronutrient, are so low that the growth of bacteria is restricted. To compensate, these bacteria produce molecules called siderophores, which help the bacteria scavenge trace amounts of iron from the surrounding seawater. The paper detailing these unexpected findings from the Pacific Ocean is published in Nature. The study could change the way scientists view microbial processes in the deep ocean and offer new insight into the ocean’s capacity to absorb carbon.

Astronomer Jo Dunkley is planning to use the Simons Observatory to snare evidence for inflation, the theory that the universe expanded at incredible speed after its birth.