Science and Engineering

Robots can now “see” touch thanks to a new colour-changing tactile sensor

Engineers at Queen Mary University of London built a new colour-changing tactile sensor, which allows robots to “see” and touch in real-time. 

Experts should focus on a “Neurodevelopmental spectrum” to support children rather than considering conditions like ADHD and autism in isolation

Largest study to date to look at how traits of different neurodevelopmental conditions strongly overlap with each other and relate to wider emotional and behavioural challenges and real-world outcomes from childhood through adolescence.

Queen Mary welcomes first cohort of students through new transnational education partnership in China

Queen Mary University of London will welcome the first cohort of 240 students through a new transnational education (TNE) partnership with the University of International Business and Economics (UIBE) in Beijing, following approval by China's Ministry of Education. 

Mathematician's Prestigious Fellowship Drives New Discoveries in Marine Microbiology

Professor Natasha Blitvic's successful Simons Foundation Pivot Fellowship highlights the power of interdisciplinary research and the value of one of the world's most distinctive research awards.

Climate-anxious youth from poorer countries “unheard” due to digital disconnection

As rising temperatures around the world trigger climate-related anxiety, new research shows that those most in need of mental health support may be cut off from it. 

New research reimagines undergraduate degrees for the AI era

A new academic paper from researchers at Queen Mary University of London is proposing a radical redesign of undergraduate education, blending the best elements of degree apprenticeships with traditional university teaching to create a model fit for the age of artificial intelligence (AI). 

From virtue to vice: how the morality of popular music lyrics has changed since the 1960s

Researchers at Queen Mary University of London found that the moral themes in popular music lyrics shifted over the past 60 years, with moral vices appearing more frequently than virtues.

New Membrane Technology Could Transform Hydrocarbon Processing by Slashing Energy Use

Researchers develop ultrathin polymer membranes that enable fast, selective separation of crude oil components, offering a scalable, low‑energy alternative to distillation.

Better heart 'digital twins' could help target treatment for Atrial Fibrillation (erratic heartbeat)

A cross-University paper led by researchers at Queen Mary University of London, published in the Journal of Physiology shows how better ‘digital twins’ could help doctors treating people with Atrial Fibrillation.

Fungi help lock carbon into Arctic fjord sediments

Hidden fungi on the Arctic seafloor may play an important role in climate-relevant carbon storage.

Children’s motivation and attitudes towards learning play a key role in academic success, study finds

New study reveals how motivation and curiosity help turn genetic potential into school achievement.

Freshwater methane emissions maximised by global warming

It is not just cows that emit the powerful greenhouse gas methane – microbial emissions from the natural world will inevitably increase as our planet continues to warm.

Sarah Brown to give plenary address at international preterm birth conference

UK Preterm Birth Conference 2027 hosted at Queen Mary University of London from 18 and 19 January 2027.

Epigenetic changes can be inherited without changing DNA in animals

Beyond DNA: Scientists discover how traits can be passed on without genetic changes.

New AI system could help scientists keep up with the explosion of research papers

Queen Mary University researchers have developed a new AI-powered framework, MetaBeeAI, designed to help scientists review and analyse vast amounts of literature faster, more transparently, and with greater human oversight.  

New European Study Reveals Methane Emissions from Biogas Plants Are Higher Than Previously Estimated – But Most Could Be Easily Reduced

A major new study led by Queen Mary University of London has revealed that methane emissions from biogas plants across Europe are higher than some estimates suggest—yet, once identified, the majority of these emissions could be eliminated at no net cost. 

Tropical butterflies “hedge their bets” with mating tactics to adapt to extreme seasons

Butterfly reproduction findings provide key insights into how climate crisis might affect tropical ecosystems  

Scientists generate electricity from ambient moisture using everyday ingredients

An international research team led by scientists at Queen Mary University of London has developed an innovative method to power wearable electronics using ambient moisture and simple, non-toxic materials commonly found in the kitchen.

Queen Mary strengthens UK-Brazil research partnerships

An academic delegation from Queen Mary University of London visited Brazil to explore opportunities for collaboration with universities, research institutes and innovation organisations in areas including AI, health, sustainability and inclusive innovation. 

Innovation paves way to make ‘clean’ chemicals, plastics and food using solar energy

Integrated solar reactor uses sunlight, water, CO2 and engineered bacteria to grow biomass in a single beaker

Tiny insect brain discovery offers a blueprint for faster and more efficient AI and robots

The secret behind insects’ lightning fast reactions could offer a blueprint for more energy efficient robots and self-driving cars, according to a new study challenging our understanding of how brains process information.

How touch and emotion combine to shape our memories and relationships

New paper in Neuroscience & Biobehavioural Review proposes first neurobiological model for how emotionally meaningful touch stays in our memory and influences our connections with others.

Feature: Championing Inclusion in STEM: Tyler’s Work on Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

From grassroots activism to national policy influence, Professor Tyler Kelly’s work on equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) has been shaped by a long-standing commitment to making universities and research culture safer, fairer and more welcoming for LGBTQ+ people. 

‘Chameleon’ bees change colour with the weather

Study reveals some bees shift colour depending on humidity – and may explain why the same species can look different across climates.

Queen Mary physicist showcases Higgs boson research in Parliament

Early Career Researcher Christos Vergis represents Queen Mary University of London at prestigious STEM for Britain event.

Wasps move in on ant–plant partnership, disrupting a 10‑million‑year mutualism

New research reveals unexpected intruders in a classic tropical tree–ant relationship, raising concerns for forest recovery in human‑altered landscapes. 

From Beijing to London: shaping the next generation of engineers

What does it take to become a successful global engineer? For Professor Yue Chen, the answer lies in a journey shaped by curiosity, global experience, and a passion for innovation. As part of our celebration of Women’s History Month, we spotlight her journey from Beijing to a leading academic career in London.  

Queen Mary PhD Students Champion Neurodivergent Inclusion at Night of Science and Engineering

Three Queen Mary University of London PhD students took centre stage at this year’s Night of Science and Engineering, sharing research that pushes forward understanding, equity and inclusion for neurodivergent people.