Winners of the 2026 UChicago Science as Art competition announced

The University of Chicago has announced the winners of its 2026 “Science as Art” contest, which highlights images resulting from research from the UChicago community.

Celebrate Earth Day with events at UChicago

Research

Smoking may spark lung-to-brain reaction tied to dementia, study finds

Research

First-ever cellular ‘blueprint’ for tiny C. elegans worm could hold big clues for humans

Scientists discover ‘most chemically pristine’ star yet found in the universe

Class Visits

Stevie Wonder is beloved. But can anyone explain his legacy?

AROUND UCHICAGO

$50 million gift to advance UChicago research and support faculty in AI

Gift from Rika and Joe Mansueto launches a nearly $200 million initiative to recruit and retain leading scholars across disciplines

Health programs promise personalization. A new tool tests if they deliver
A UChicago researcher scored how well family health interventions tailor their first sessions—and found higher scores predicted stronger engagement a year later

For UChicago Law, the Supreme Court tariffs case was a tale of two alumni
Learning Resources CEO Rick Woldenberg, JD’86, and constitutional scholar Michael McConnell, JD’79, made key contributions to the landmark ruling on presidential tariff authority

To teach social-emotional skills, does a robot need to pretend to be human?

UChicago scientists team up with Chicago Public Schools to test if robots need fictional personalities to teach effectively

In Senegal, students navigate homestays and urban Wolof with UChicago rigor
Undergrads and faculty share immersive experiences from the Dakar: African Civilizations program

UChicago Explainer Series

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Dark matter, explained

RECENT

Dark energy, explained
Coined by University of Chicago astrophysicist Michael Turner in 1998, dark energy—the force causing the universe to expand faster over time—remains one of the great mysteries of physics.

Exoplanets, explained
We now know there are thousands of planets out there in our galaxy alone. Learn what we know about them, and what mysteries remain.

MOST VIEWED

The origin of life on Earth, explained

Ecological succession, explained

The Gut Microbiome, explained

Inside the Lab

Explore Labs Across UChicago

Inside the Lab

Sebo Lab: Programming robots to better interact with humans

Go inside the laboratory of Sarah Sebo, whose Human-Robot Interaction lab at the University of Chicago is programming robots with social skills, in order to build trust and rapport with humans. The goal is to develop robots that can improve performance, including better learning outcomes for children.

Sheffield Lab: Understanding the neuroscience of memories
Watch UChicago neurobiologist Mark Sheffield and his team investigate the mechanisms of memory by studying neuron activity and connections. Their research could enhance the treatment of memory-related conditions such as Alzheimer’s and PTSD.

Light Lab: Understanding the gut microbiome to treat disease
Step inside Asst. Prof. Sam Light’s lab to learn how scientists are mapping the incredible network of microbes living inside your gut—and how they can affect health or disease.

Awad Lab: Predicting and preventing strokes and brain bleeds
In the newest episode of Inside the Lab, visit Prof. Issam Awad and learn about his team's mission: to prevent strokes before they happen.

PODCASTS

Big Brains homepage

Episode 178

Could AI models forecast extreme weather events? with Pedram Hassanzadeh
Climate scientist explains how models are being trained to predict heat waves, monsoons and even unprecedented ‘gray swan’ events

Episode 177

Are judges too powerful? The rise of universal injunctions, with Samuel Bray
Legal scholar discusses the expanding authority of single judges to halt federal policies and executive orders

Episode 176

Could data centers break our power grid? with Andrew Chien
AI demands are straining energy systems and the environment; scientist proposes a more sustainable solution

Episode 175

Remarkable new treatments for spinal cord injuries, with Mohamad Bydon
2-year-old’s recovery from severed spinal cord shows how surgery can help patients regain movement, even after paralysis

Episode 174

Can you improve your working memory and attention? with Edward Awh
Neuroscientist explains why some people remember more—and one simple way to sharpen your focus

More from the University of Chicago Podcast Network

Capitalisn't

Is capitalism the engine of destruction or the engine of prosperity?

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Not Another Politics Podcast

Understand the political science behind the headlines

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Entitled

Why rights matter—and what’s the matter with rights

Listen

Master's education at UChicago

Programs transforming careers

UChicago master’s programs meet demand in evolving job market

Degree programs help students build skills, become future leaders and make impact

Bridging theoretical and applied: UChicago master’s in financial math, finance and management

Career-focused programs teach cutting-edge skills while supporting students at UChicago and beyond

‘Theoretical rigor with practical application’: UChicago master’s in data science and computer science
Programs provide real-world skills and hands-on experience in a supportive environment

‘Immersive and transformative’: UChicago’s master’s in arts and humanities
Interdisciplinary programs offer students a rigorous and impactful experience

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