Brain Science: Optogenetics is helping researchers move beyond observing brain activity: by using light to switch selected nerve cells on or off, they can test which cells drive particular actions. Wearable Diagnostics: Cambridge researchers have built a centimetre-scale optical spectrometer costing about $10, a design that could bring precise chemical testing to wearable health monitors and other portable devices. Battery Advances: HKUST’s interface-engineering strategy produced an anode-free lithium-metal pouch cell with 467 Wh/kg specific energy; a coin cell retained 90% capacity after 200 cycles. AI and Biotech: OpenAI acquired Orchestra Bio, whose AI agents manage biotech research operations, and plans to add its team and tools to its life-sciences research platform. Factory Automation: Rockwell Automation unveiled FactoryTalk Conductor, a platform designed to coordinate AI workflows across industrial design, operations and maintenance; commercial release is planned for 2027. Engineering AI: In a poll of 300 people, 92% said AI delivers measurable value to engineering teams, most often through faster development cycles and higher productivity—not lower costs. STEM Education: An Irish survey found 60% of girls see low confidence in their STEM abilities as a career barrier, up from 50% in 2024; access to computer science and technology classes is also lower in single-sex schools.