A miniature device that combines optogenetics – using light to control the activity of the brain – with a newly developed technique for wirelessly powering implanted devices is the first fully internal method of delivering optogenetics. The blue glowing device the size of a peppercorn can activate neurons of the brain, spinal cord or limbs in mice and is powered wirelessly using the mouse's own body to transfer energy. Represents collaboration PI and Post Docs, multi-discipline, Known4 Labs.

A new lab robot is an example of how clever robotics might speed research and open new fields of study. Stanford News reports on a team of bioengineering scientists that have created a robot with excellent "hand-eye coordination" that can visually inspect active flies and carry out behavioral experiments.

Stanford physicists have extended the distance they can demonstrate quantum communications. Stanford News reports on progress using photons to communicate between two electrons through more than a mile of fiber optic cable, an important step toward proving the practicality of quantum networks.

A new microscope could provide unique insights into treating immune disorders and cancer. Stanford News reports on a collaboration of pediatric immunology and electrical engineering researchers which has developed a microscope that can rapidly measure the mechanical properties of cells at the nanometer scale.