Unexpected allies: DNA packaging aids gene expression

Researchers discovered that DNA packaging structures called nucleosomes, which have been traditionally seen as roadblocks for gene expression, actually help reduce torsional stress in DNA strands and facilitate genetic information decoding.

In Bukovina, European empires built new worlds out of inherited materials

Now divided between Romania and Ukraine, the region never fit easily among its neighbors, as regimes including the Habsburg Empire and the Soviet Union tried to remake it in their image.

Soil molecular diversity spikes as microbes decompose plants

As soil microbes break down plant residues, they produce a diverse set of molecules, but this diversity starts to fall after the initial phase of decomposition (roughly 32 days). Understanding how soils retain or emit carbon dioxide during this process may inform climate change resilience efforts.

Around Cornell

Research matters: How folate deficiency may alter genes to promote cancer

Researchers at Weill Cornell Medicine recently discovered that low levels of folate, a B vitamin essential for cell growth, can trigger specific genetic changes found in several human cancers, including lung tumors.

Model reveals tradeoffs that limit harm caused by malaria parasite

A new study based on mathematical modeling reveals how parasites’ choice between using resources to replicate within hosts and transmitting to new mosquito and human hosts might limit their virulence.  

Amplifying the beet: New tech makes for crunchier snacks

"Better-for-you" snacks are all the rage. New tech from Cornell food scientists may give beets their time to shine.

2025 Year in Review

Cornell’s impact was felt near and far, from the lacrosse fields to research labs and beyond in a turbulent 2025.

Researchers tackle AI’s energy problem with a greener fix

As researchers are racing to find greener ways to power AI, a new study explores a promising solution: analog in-memory computing, utilizing analog chips.

New 3D benchmark leaves AI in knots

In new research that puts the latest models to test in a 3D environment, Cornell scholars found that AI fares well with untangling basic knots but can’t quite tie knots from simple loops nor convert one knot to another.