The first month of 2026 has been incredibly fruitful for scientists around the globe. Researchers at Rice University revealed a strange new quantum state that behaves like a bridge between known phases of matter; biologists at MIT found fresh clues about how the brain’s messiest proteins organize themselves before causing diseases like Alzheimers; a team from UC Irvine mapped just how fast major river deltas are quietly sinking—faster than many models predicted—reshaping how we think about coastal risk; and, in space news, astronauts and Earth-bound scientists published a study on the impacts of microgravity of virus evolution and human immune response in the closed system of the International Space Station.

It’s an incredible time to be pushing the known boundaries of science. We’re excited to see what Dartmouth’s STEM community does in 2026!

-The WISP Team

Quantum physics is often described as mysterious and inaccessible—but what does it actually look like to do quantum research in a lab? 

The Quantum Spin Lab, led by Professor of Physics & Astronomy Chandrasekhar Ramanathan, is an experimental research group focused on studying quantum physics and engineering quantum technologies. The lab uses the tools of magnetic resonance to control the quantum dynamics of electronic and nuclear spins in solid materials, such as diamond. 

In these experiments, samples are placed in a magnetic field and excited using combinations of light, microwaves, and radio-frequency pulses. To get an experiment to work—and to learn something from it—the team builds instrumentation, writes code, runs theoretical simulations, and continuously develops new techniques.

Professor Ramanathan has been a faculty mentor for many years and believes that research and coursework go hand in hand. “Research is a powerful way to synthesize the knowledge gained across different classes. It helps students develop critical problem-solving skills by pushing them to think beyond the boundaries of any single subject. At the same time, it requires a willingness to learn new tools while building on the knowledge you already have.”

Ada Praun-Petrovic `27 echoes this sentiment. She joined the Quantum Spin Lab as a WISP intern in her freshman year and has continued to conduct research on the control of electron spins in diamond. Now a Presidential Scholar, she says, “Doing research makes my coursework feel more meaningful and directed because it gives me perspective on how I can apply classroom concepts.” She adds, “Working in Professor Ramanathan's group has been one of my most valuable experiences at Dartmouth. I have gained both insight into and practical experience in a field where I decided I want to spend my career.”

Wednesday, January 21

5:00-6:30PM, Haldeman 041

Hosted by the EEJ Program, Just Science is a new public lecture series that highlights the lives and legacies of trailblazing BIPOC scientists such as Ernest Everett Just, a 1907 graduate of Dartmouth College and pioneering cell biologist, for whom the program is named. These narratives remind us that the pursuit of knowledge and the act of knowing are political acts that animate our moral frameworks and value systems, while broadening our vision of who the knowledge seekers can be. Just Science will illuminate the intersection between the expansion of scientific understanding and the pursuit of notions of justice, including social justice, environmental justice, educational justice and racial justice.

The first lecture will be delivered by Carolyn Roberts, assistant professor of the history of science and medicine and Black studies at Yale University.

Wednesday, January 21

12:00-2:00PM, DHMC Auditorium E&F

Monday, January 26

5:30-6:30PM, Moore B03

Calling all ’28s! The Scholars Programs team is hosting the second Stamps Scholars Information Session on Monday, January 26. Applications for the Stamps Scholars Program are due February 15.

The session will begin with an overview of the Stamps Program, followed by insights from three current scholars. They’ll share tips on crafting a strong proposal, building a realistic timeline, anticipating challenges, outlining a budget, and more. Attendees will also have the opportunity to ask questions and connect with the scholars afterward.

Planning to attend? Please RSVP on Groups using the provided link.