Growing to greatness: Professor Mary Gehring on plant epigenetics and becoming an HHMI Investigator
Prof. Mary Gehring, a core member of the Whitehead Institute and a professor of biology, explores how epigenetic mechanisms like DNA methylation influence gene regulation in plants. Her lab’s work, using the model organism Arabidopsis thaliana, stands at the frontiers of plant biology research.
Zesiger pool assault under police investigation, new facility policies implemented in response
On July 25, a Timely Warning notice was made public following five reported incidents of indecent assault and battery on a child under the age of 14 at the Zesiger Sports and Fitness Center. The assault is said to have occurred on July 24 between 7:30 a.m. and 8:50 a.m. while the victims were swimming in the lap pool. The suspect, described as a male around 30 years old with a mustache, was last seen wearing a lime green shirt and carrying a duffel bag.
Division of Student Life to introduce new free expression policies
MIT is set to introduce new policies and clarify existing ones aimed at balancing free expression, respectful dialogue, and safe campus operations, as announced in an August 15 email from the Student Organizations Leadership & Engagement Office. Vice President and Dean for Student Life Suzy Nelson announced that the finalized policies, developed with significant input from students, were to be shared in the coming weeks as the fall semester approaches.
MIT commits to upholding anti-discrimination, harassment policies
As the fall semester draws near, MIT is reaffirming its dedication to fostering an inclusive and safe environment for all members of its community. In a recent emailed announcement on August 19, Sarah Rankin, Director of the Institute Discrimination and Harassment Response Office (IDHR) and MIT's Title IX and VI Coordinator, emphasized the importance of understanding and adhering to the Institute's anti-discrimination and harassment policies.
Former MIT-owned edX’s parent company goes bankrupt
On July 27, 2U Inc., the online education firm that acquired edX from MIT and Harvard for $800 million in 2021, announced its Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing.
MIT launches Philippe A. Embiricos fellowship to drive maritime innovation
MIT has introduced the Philippe A. Embiricos Fellowship in Ocean Engineering, with help from a substantial $500,000 donation from Libra Philanthropies. This fellowship is specifically designed to encourage and support Greek talent, fostering the next wave of leaders in maritime innovation.
Duane Boning appointed as the new Vice Provost for International Activities
MIT has announced the appointment of Duane Boning as the new Vice Provost for International Activities (VPIA), effective September 1 of this year. Boning, a long-standing member of the MIT community and the Clarence J. LeBel Professor in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, will oversee the Institute's global engagements and policies. Boning's appointment is seen as a continuation of MIT’s commitment to fostering international partnerships that address global challenges.
In Memoriam: Minh-Thi Nguyen G
Minh-Thi Nguyen G, a third-year graduate student in the Department of Physics, passed away the morning of June 21 following a traffic collision while biking from her apartment to campus.
MIT Introduces New Guidelines for Personal Wheels (PWs)
MIT has introduced new guidelines for the use of "Personal Wheels" (PWs), including scooters, skateboards, and bicycles, in response to a surge in their popularity on campus.
MIT Expands Insurance Options with New Enrollment Partner
MIT is set to enhance healthcare accessibility for students with expanded insurance choices and a new enrollment system.
Cambridge City Council Unanimously Approves Safety Audits Following Fatal Intersection Collision
In response to the death of Minh-Thi Nguyen G on the morning of June 21 following a fatal collision with a truck, the Cambridge City Council voted unanimously on June 24 to initiate safety audits at intersections where serious collisions have occurred.
Housing and Residential Services organizes Q&A for McCormick Hall residents
Housing and Residential Services organizes Q&A for McCormick Hall residents
McCormick Hall due for renovation in summer 2025
McCormick Hall due for renovation in summer 2025
Graduate Junction Licensing Center opens at MIT
Graduate Junction Licensing Center opens at MIT
Flagship Pioneering CEO, Moderna co-founder, Noubar Afeyan PhD ’87 to deliver Class of 2024 Commencement address
Noubar Afeyan PhD ’87, an American-Canadian entrepreneur and philanthropist best known for co-founding the biotechnology company Moderna, will speak at the 2024 OneMIT Commencement Ceremony May 30.
Reflecting and Looking Forward: President Sally Kornbluth
In her first year as MIT President, Sally Kornbluth has implemented initiatives and faced challenges. Her listening tour culminated in a number of findings, ranging from the ethics of artificial intelligence to concerns over living expenses on campus. Kornbluth led the Institute through the Supreme Court ruling overturning affirmative action and its response to the crisis in the Middle East. Kornbluth sat down with The Tech to reflect on her tenure so far as President.
Karl Reid ’84, SM ’85 named Vice President for Equity and Inclusion
In a statement to the MIT community, President Sally Kornbluth announced that Karl Reid ’84, SM ’85 will become the new vice president for equity and inclusion (VPEI) beginning March 3rd. Reid currently serves as Senior Vice Provost and Chief Inclusion Officer at Northeastern University. Professor Daniel Hastings SM ’78, PhD ’80 served as the interim Institute community and equity officer following the departure of John Dozier in June of 2023.
In Memoriam: Lauren Brock ’27
In a statement to the MIT Community, President Sally Kornbluth announced the death of Lauren Brock ’27. A New Hampshire native and Macgregor resident, Brock deferred enrollment for two years after joining a start-up full time.
Kornbluth addresses MIT community in the new year
On Jan. 3, MIT President Sally Kornbluth began the new year by addressing the current challenges on campus and her vision for progress in a campus-wide statement.
MIT Multicultural Conference 2023
MIT hosted its annual Multicultural Conference (MC^2) at the MIT Endicott House from Nov. 17 to 18. Dr. Alma Jam from the MIT Office of Intercultural Engagement, facilitated the program.
Schwarzman School of Computing Building Opens
Building 45, the Schwarzman School of Computing, opened on Vassar Street. Located next door to Building 46, which is home to the Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, Building 45 will host MIT faculty studying human and machine intelligence.
MIT Civil Discourse Project launches speaker series
Each speaker event pairs an outside speaker who holds a position not commonly voiced within MIT with an MIT faculty member. This structure "encourages diverse opinions and lively debate while maintaining a high standard of intellectual rigor."
Senior Associate Dean of Housing and Residential Services clarifies proposed housing rate changes
"The exact price of the one rate was not discussed in detail, but it would likely be a new blended rate tied to the financial aid allowance," Friedrich wrote.
MITHenge occurred from Nov. 10 to Nov. 13
MITHenge occurred from Nov. 10 to Nov. 13. During MITHenge, the setting sun aligns with the Infinite Corridor’s entire length, a hallway approximately 823 feet long. This phenomenon occurs at two different times each year — once around November 11 and January 31.
Students voice thoughts on proposed housing rate changes at Dormcon meeting
A common thread repeated throughout the meeting was some low-income students' concern that the flat rate would strip them of the benefits that opting into tier-3 housing provided.
LIGO researchers surpass the quantum limit
On Oct. 23, LIGO researchers at MIT, Caltech, and other institutions reported that they had surpassed the quantum limit. This marked a significant advance in quantum squeezing, a method for reducing quantum noise to obtain more precise measurements. Researchers will now be able to measure a larger volume of the universe by analyzing gravitational frequencies.
Moungi Bawendi speaks about approaching challenges, mentoring trainees, and the developing field of quantum dots
My job is to keep up the enthusiasm and persevere. Research is slow and things don’t usually work the first time. You have to have a vision of what you want, and you have to solve problems.
John Urschel speaks about graduate studies in mathematics, professional football, and career aspirations
Professor John Urschel of the Mathematics Department was appointed as an assistant professor in the fall of 2023. Urschel completed his PhD at MIT in 2021 and was a former NFL player for the Baltimore Ravens for three years.
MIT holds Fall Career Fair
Around 4044 people attended the fair, with lectures and recitations canceled to encourage attendance.
Orientation Held for Class of 2027
Orientation for the Class of 2027 began on Aug. 27 and ended Sept. 1. Many events were packed into the week, including residential exploration (REX) and a Convocation address from President Sally Kornbluth.
Stratton Student Center Reopens after Renovations
On Sept. 12, the Stratton Student Center reopened after its complete closure in April 2023. First opened in 1968, the Student Center, known as the “Stud,” experienced catastrophic water pipe damage in February.
MIT Dining Announces Closure of Steam and Koch Cafés
The Steam and Koch Cafés, formerly located in Buildings 7 and 37 respectively, are permanently closing. In a statement to the Tech, Mark Hayes, Director of Campus Dining, said that Campus Dining “undertook several enhancements” to continue to make healthy food accessible across campus.