Croucher News

July 2026

Cleaning solar panels with less water 31 July 2026

The method uses droplet impact to lift dust from panels, helping conserve water while maintaining solar energy output.

The hidden rules governing life's molecular machines 30 July 2026

Researchers used artificial intelligence to show how physical constraints dictate the flexibility, thermal stability and evolutionary tolerance of proteins.

Croucher welcomes Class of 2026 into its growing community 29 July 2026

Altogether, the Foundation is funding 32 new awardees this year, who join a community that helps nurture Hong Kong's science ecosystem

Screen compounds reach marine mammal brains 28 July 2026

Researchers found liquid crystal display compounds in marine mammal organs, including brains, with possible effects on basic cellular processes.

Fungal clues reveal new bioactive compound 27 July 2026

Researchers discovered pterrespiramide A, a new fungal compound with an unusual ring structure, by scanning fungal genomes for defence genes.

Tracing the patterns the early universe left behind 25 July 2026

Physicists are studying subtle patterns in cosmic maps to test inflation and search for signs of very early particles.

Crystalline framework improves solid-state energy storage 24 July 2026

Researchers have created a highly conductive, single-crystal solid electrolyte that prevents degradation and improves safety in lithium metal batteries.

Hong Kong researchers reflect on Lindau 23 July 2026

Hong Kong participants at the 75th Lindau meeting found fresh perspectives on research, collaboration and mentoring through cross-disciplinary exchanges.

Air samples reveal hidden clues in bird trade 22 July 2026

Airborne DNA identified some market birds and protected species, suggesting a useful screening tool where direct inspection is limited.

Early-life factors combine to shape child development 21 July 2026

Researchers linked early gut bacteria and gene-control patterns to later behavioural signs, while stressing that outcomes are not fixed.

Artificial cilia achieve lifelike motion 20 July 2026

Researchers created fast, durable artificial cilia that can be programmed to move fluids precisely at very small scales.

Garnet Chan elected a Fellow of the Royal Society 18 July 2026

Garnet Chan’s election recognises his work in theoretical chemistry, condensed matter physics and quantum information theory.

Mapping the architecture of touch 17 July 2026

Researchers modelled how PIEZO2 opens under membrane stretch, clarifying touch signalling and possible routes for pain-related treatments.

AI goes underground to track sewer risks 16 July 2026

The system predicts sewage leaks and blockages, helping authorities target inspections, cleaning and repairs before failures cause overflows.

Researchers challenge a 300-year-old law of friction 15 July 2026

Researchers found that magnetic layers can generate friction at a distance, challenging a long-standing rule about surface contact.

Where water feels the vibes 14 July 2026

Scientists show that vibrations can drive chemical reactions in water, generating hydrogen and hydrogen peroxide for future energy and water-treatment uses.

Pet cats may help explain cancer-causing infections 13 July 2026

Researchers argue that cats offer underused natural models for studying cancer-causing viruses and improving health in animals and people.

Laser control sharpens brain imaging 10 July 2026

Researchers adjusted laser power pixel by pixel to limit unintended neurone activation during combined brain imaging and stimulation experiments.

AI model spots brain scan abnormalities without being taught what to look for 9 July 2026

By learning only healthy anatomy, the system identifies tumours, strokes and artefacts, potentially catching lesions missed during routine reviews.

Unlocking the secret of mussels' instant grip 8 July 2026

Simulations reveal that mussels channel charged proteins into shared contact zones, producing strong adhesive bonds within seconds rather than hours.

Stay in the loop!

Subscribe to keep up with the latest from Croucher Foundation.

Passionate about science?

Subscribe now and stay informed about Hong Kong's dynamic scientific landscape.