University of Cambridge

June 17, 2025 4:47 PM

Researchers creates new robotic “skin” that feels heat, pain, pressure

Researchers have developed a revolutionary robotic skin that brings machines closer to achieving a human-like sense of touch. Made from a flexible, low-cost gel material, the skin transforms the entire surface of a robotic hand into a sensitive and intelligent sensor. Unlike traditional robotic skins that rely on a patchwork of different sensors, this material can detect pressure, temperature, pain, and even distinguish multiple contact points simultaneously. Developed by researchers from the...

October 22, 2024 6:23 PM

Luxury brand Chanel to sponsor Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race

French luxury brand Chanel will sponsor Britain's historic Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race next year in the first sporting sponsorship for the company known for its tailored suits and quilted purses. Luxury fashion companies are increasingly moving into the sports sponsorship space in a bid to attract new audiences. LVMH sponsored the Paris Olympics and earlier this month the luxury giant, owner of the Dior and Louis Vuitton brands, announced a 10-year deal with Formula One motor racing. Britai...

October 3, 2024 3:52 PM

Scientists map fruit fly brain in neurobiological milestone

Scientists announced on Thursday a milestone in neurobiological research with the mapping of the entire brain of an adult fruit fly, a feat that may provide insight into brains across the animal kingdom, including people. The research detailed more than 50 million connections between more than 139,000 neurons - brain nerve cells - in the insect, a species whose scientific name is Drosophila melanogaster and is often used in neurobiological studies. The research sought to decipher how brains are...

July 8, 2024 6:59 PM

Study identifies thousands of high-risk cancer gene variants

Scientists have made a groundbreaking discovery, identifying over 5,000 genetic variations that contribute to cancer growth. This landmark study, conducted by researchers from the Wellcome Sanger Institute, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, and the University of Cambridge, also uncovered a potential therapeutic target for treating and possibly preventing certain cancers. The research, published in Nature Genetics, focused on the BAP1 gene, known as a 'tumor defense' gene. Using an innov...