News: Research

Read the latest news from the College of Natural Sciences at The University of Texas at Austin

UT Biodiversity Center

Prickly Pear Cactus Moth Invasion Expands in Texas

Researchers have a key update on work to fight invasive moths capable of decimating native Texas prickly pear.

A montage of three photos depict a brown moth with its wings folded, cobwebs filled with caterpillars and a blighted prickly pear cactus.

Research

Researchers Achieve Quantum Computing Milestone, Realizing Certified Randomness

A team including Scott Aaronson demonstrated what may be the first practical application of quantum computers to a real world problem.

An arc of green orbs floats above a golden surface

Research

New Chemical Discovery Could Make Medicine and Manufacturing More Sustainable

A research team has developed a more efficient way to build molecules using green chemistry.

Two empty halves of a pill capsule with metallic molecule model between them on a gray background.

McDonald Observatory

UT Astronomer Peers Deeper into Mysterious Flame Nebula

Postdoctoral researcher Matthew De Furio led the research that found the smallest brown dwarfs in the nebula.

Three telescope images of a colorful stellar nebula

Research

Research Identifies Key Antibodies for Development of Broadly Protective Norovirus Vaccine

Discovery brings us one step closer to vaccine and treatment for prevalent virus.

image of norovirus. cluster of blue circles on tan background

Research

Improved Brain Decoder Holds Promise for Communication in People With Aphasia

Restoring some language for aphasia sufferers, like Bruce Willis and a million other Americans, could involve AI.

Colorful illustration of a human brain with different colors ranging from pink to blue to purple, indicating brain activity

Research

Researchers Find Hidden Link Between Plants’ Growth and Immunity

A new study shows how plants balance growth and defense, offering insights for stronger, more resilient crops.

Microscopic imaging of stomata cells in plants. The cells are stained pink on a black background and look like tiny mouths.

Research

New Research Reveals How Changes in Social Status Impact the Brain

The study conducted in male mice found that bigger social tumbles are more stressful.

Blue speckles on a black background represent imaging of the mouse amygdala

McDonald Observatory

Newfound Galaxy Class May Indicate Early Black Hole Growth

Many galaxies known as little red dots (LRDs) appear to harbor growing supermassive black holes.

An image with six panels, each displaying a bright red blob on a black background

Research

Brain Map Clarifies Neuronal Connectivity Behind Motor Function

Scientists have traced connectivity between neurons to identify how the brain communicates with the spinal cord.

Four graphics represent differfent angles on a brain, with areas lit up where specific neurons are connected or active.