Science press releases

A sundew carnivorous plants digesting a fly

Sundews’ secret to survival: Study reveals how carnivorous plants adapt to microhabitat challenges

Scientists have uncovered how sundews, Charles Darwin’s favourite plant, become more carnivorous in certain habitats.
Cyanobacteria filaments under a microscope.

Scientists unravel how ancient bacteria weave living mats – solving one of nature’s oldest mysteries (FEATURE)

Scientists have uncovered how cyanobacteria — Earth's first photosynthetic organisms — self-organise into intricate living mats, offering insights into aquatic ecosystems and potential inspiration for material design.
Smart nanoparticles

Computer simulations to aid in Loughborough push for more effective drug delivery

A Loughborough University project will use computer simulations and practical experiments to explore whether there’s a safer, more effective way for smart polymer nanoparticles to be designed for drug delivery and medical imaging.
Concept image showing an atom and electrons surrounding it with wavelengths going through the middle. Rainbow-colour scheme on a black background

Physicists' breakthrough in fine-tuning electron behaviour in quantum materials could fast-track next generation of technology

Physicists at Loughborough University have made an exciting breakthrough in understanding how to fine-tune the behaviour of electrons in quantum materials poised to drive the next generation of advanced technologies.

the 'loughborough university' sign outside campus

World-class ‘accelerator’ to speed development of crucial rehabilitation technologies

A world-class impact accelerator will connect hundreds of East Midlands MedTech SMEs with health and care professionals, academics and the public to drive the design, development and delivery of pioneering rehabilitation technologies.
A shot of the Think Human exhibition in Derby.

Museum exhibit showcases Loughborough's excellence in ergonomics & human factors

A museum exhibit developed in collaboration with Loughborough University is showcasing how ergonomics helps human development – from securing Olympic gold medals for Team GB to helping navigate rail stations and delivering progress to latest cancer treatments.
Image from an MRI scan showing a human face pointing to the left and the human brain can be seen.

Expert explainer: Why identifying lifestyle changes and treatments that reduce dementia risk is complicated

Studies that find a reduction in dementia risk through lifestyle changes and treatments are frequently reported in the news.
The drosera carnivorous plant

New discovery fundamentally changes the way we understand Charles Darwin’s most beloved plant – the sundew

A new study has found a symbiotic relationship that has evolved between Darwin’s favourite carnivorous plant and a specific type of fungus which lives inside it and helps it digest its prey.
Two researchers in the Emergent Photonics Research Centre

Loughborough University to play key role in new £21.9m quantum technology hub

Loughborough University researchers are to play a key role in a new £21.9m government-funded quantum technology hub.

a test tube behind held by a gloved hand

Doping in sport – what’s the testing process? (VIDEO)

Ahead of a busy summer of sport, the issue of doping remains firmly in the news headlines.
A researcher in the Emergent Photonics Research Centre

Emergent Photonics Research Centre opens at Loughborough University

Loughborough University has launched a new research centre dedicated to revolutionising science and technology through photonics – the study of lasers and light waves.
a woman wearing mouthpiece technology

Loughborough University developing breath test to predict health in older people

Loughborough University research is underway to develop a breath test to predict when health and physical function is at risk of declining in older people.
A gel lifter being used to lift fingerprints by a person in blue gloves

New hope for cold cases due to breakthrough in forensic fingerprint research

Researchers have unveiled a groundbreaking method capable of detecting drug substances from fingerprints lifted from crime scenes, which could provide fresh insights into unsolved cases.
The latest experts in sport podcast logo featuring a leopard

Experts in Sport: Optimising athletic performance – lessons from the animal kingdom

When considering the optimisation of athletes’ endurance capacity within sport, many wouldn’t think to call upon the animal kingdom for answers.

Computer generated image showing a lock on top of a digital/tech looking background comprised of lines and small dots

Expert comment: AI Safety Summit - why it's important and what can be expected

For the next two days, leaders, tech executives, and experts - including Elon Musk, will gather at Bletchley Park for the AI Safety Summit 2023.
Two children playing with a multi-coloured foam maths game, shaped like squares

Labour’s plan to focus on early maths is solid – gaps in achievement start even before primary school

Politicians in the UK have maths on the mind. The Conservatives intend to extend compulsory maths education for young people until 18.
image of green cyanobacteria making a web-like pattern in a petri dish

Scientists explain unique formation of ancient algae that evolved photosynthesis and oxygenated our planet

Scientists have for the first time revealed how blue-green algae – visible as the slippery ‘green slime’ in stagnant water, riverbeds, and seashores – weaves itself into large web-like structures.

a man with a hot drink, smiling to the camera

The ‘male menopause’ – what you need to know

East Midlands Ambulance Service is reportedly giving men up to a year of paid leave for “andropause related issues”, which some are calling the “male menopause”.

Every science lab should have an artist on the team – here’s why

I’ve been conducting scientific research with experts who specialise in advanced microscopy at Nottingham University for more than ten years. But I’m not a scientist – I’m an artist and lecturer in illustration.
A woman cooking outside with a variety of pots

More than 1.1 billion African people unlikely to have access to clean cooking fuels and technologies by 2050, new study predicts

A new Loughborough University study on clean energy accessibility in Africa forecasts that 1.1 billion people will be without eco-friendly cooking fuels or technologies by 2050.
A baby lying on top of a giant tape measure

What makes people grow? Love and hope, concludes expert in human development

Love and hope are critical factors in promoting healthy human development and come together in complex ways to support emotional well-being, an expert in human development has concluded.

Fruits spelling 'keto'

Keto diet may slow cancer tumour growth in mice – but not without potentially deadly consequences

The ketogenic (keto) diet has been popular in recent years among people looking to lose weight and keep fit. But what many people don’t realise is that this low carb, high-fat diet has actually been used for centuries in the treatment of medical maladies, such as epilepsy. More recently, researchers have been investigating its use alongside chemotherapy to improve remission and survival in patients with advanced metastatic cancers.

UK’s AI ‘twin’ will use big data to show the way to net zero

A new research project will develop a digital ‘twin’ of the UK that harnesses artificial intelligence and big data to meet its net zero target.
An image of a heat mannequin inside a temperature controlled chamber

Curly hair kept early humans cool

Curly hair does more than simply look good – it may explain how early humans stayed cool while conserving water, according to researchers who studied the role human hair textures play in regulating body temperature. The findings can shed light on an evolutionary adaptation that enabled the human brain to grow to modern-day sizes.
Woman with eyes closed and a vector of a brain overlaying the photo. Image courtesy of Getty Images.

Technology is radically changing sleep as we know it

From sleep trackers to wakefulness drugs, the 21st century has seen an influx of new technology that could radically alter the way we sleep.