Scientists unearth 2.6-million-year-old hominin fossil in Ethiopia

Lower jaw of Paranthropus, discovered by UChicago-led team, reshapes understanding of early hominins

Dark Energy Survey releases new analysis of how the universe expands

New course explores 100 years of anthropology at UChicago

‘AI advisor’ helps scientists steer autonomous labs

Building costs aren’t to blame for high home prices

New study highlights link between eviction rates and gun violence

AROUND UCHICAGO

MacArthur Foundation supports UChicago initiative to explore future of the humanities

Neubauer Collegium project to articulate value of humanistic scholarship and teaching in higher education and society

In Memoriam

Stuart M. Tave, distinguished scholar of British literature and ‘amiable humorist,’ 1923-2026
Former dean of the Humanities Division remembered for his gentle kindness, skill with words and shrewd sense of humor

From clinic to canvas, a UChicago physician brings an artist’s eye for detail
Asst. Prof. Nathaniel Glasser uses sociology to understand how masculinity influences men’s health

Donald G. York, co-founder of Sloan Digital Sky Survey and ‘visionary’ astronomer, 1944-2025
UChicago professor emeritus helped transform modern astronomy, mapped interstellar medium

Jacqueline Stewart to deliver keynote at UChicago’s 2026 MLK commemoration
Renowned film scholar to speak at Jan. 28 celebration at Rockefeller Chapel

UChicago Explainer Series

View All Explainers

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.

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.

Improv, explained
Modern improv comedy began at the University of Chicago in the 1950s.

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 173

Why knowing your true self is so difficult, with Eric Oliver
New book explores our path to self-discovery—and what it means to be ‘you’

Episode 172

The breakthrough quantum sensor that sees inside your cells, with Peter Maurer
Discovery of a first-of-its-kind biological qubit could help detect and track diseases

Episode 171

What makes music go viral—From AI to Taylor Swift, with Paula Harper
Music scholar examines the forces driving the rise of pop stars and songs in the age of TikTok and Spotify

Episode 170

How wearable tech will heighten our senses and abilities, with Pedro Lopes
Computer scientist explores the potential of human-computer integration and haptics to help us move and learn

Episode 169

How full-body MRIs could predict your long-term health, with Daniel Sodickson
Medical physicist examines how AI-enhanced MRIs could transform health care

More from the University of Chicago Podcast Network

Capitalisn't

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

Listen

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

Events

Jan

28

MLK Commemoration Celebration

MLK Commemoration Celebration

Rockefeller Memorial Chapel

Jan

29

Empower Your Health Cervical Cancer Awareness Event

Empower Your Health Cervical Cancer Awareness Event

9119 S. Exchange Avenue, Chicago - Chicago Family Health Center

Jan

29

Art and Politics with Susanne Sachsse of Berlin’s CHEAP Art Collective

Art and Politics with Susanne Sachsse of Berlin’s CHEAP Art Collective

Three Top Lounge at The Salt Shed, 1357 N Elston Ave Chicago, IL 60642