Greetings! Here’s the latest roundup from the MIT community.
Work of the Future
Automation is unlikely to eliminate millions of jobs any time soon — but improved policy would help Americans build better careers and share prosperity. So says a new MIT report that offers a nuanced view of the evolution of technology and jobs.
How to make sure robots help us, not replace us // Bloomberg Businessweek
An MIT Task Force on the Work of the Future report finds “countries that make well-targeted, forward-looking investments in education and skills training should be able to deliver jobs with favorable earnings and employment security to the vast majority of their workers.”
Scientific advancement, “one funeral at a time” // Inside Higher Ed
A study by Professor Pierre Azoulay finds the passing of star scientists can benefit scientific research by opening the door to an influx of new ideas and contributors.
“Particle” robots work together to perform tasks // Scientific American
MIT researchers have developed a robotic system with multiple units that can operate as a cluster. “In our system, each particle is very simple, and there is no central control over the cluster,” explains Professor Daniela Rus.
Last Friday, first-year MIT students participated in an Activities Midway hosted by the Association of Student Activities. Hundreds of students visited the the Johnson Athletic Center to learn about MIT clubs and organizations and to enjoy entertainment from some of the Institute’s student performing groups. Seen here, Tim the Beaver greeted first-years Binette Wadda (left) and Selam Bulti.
As the first week of classes for the new semester drew to a close, first-year MIT undergraduates reflected on their transition into a new home. A video produced by sophomore Zoe Sheill provides a glimpse at the excitement, jitters, and hopes of the Class of 2023, as well as advice for a successful four years at MIT from upper-level students.