News EPFL

New software helps analyze writing disabilities

Published:28.09.18 — Nearly 10% of elementary school students have trouble learning to write, with potentially lasting consequences on their education. EPFL researchers have developed a software program that can analyze these children’s writing disabilities and their causes with unparalleled precision.

Appointment of EPFL professors

Published:27.09.18 — The Board of the Swiss Federal Institutes of Technology has announced the appointment of four professors at EPFL.

Smart transportation systems need smart governance

Published:26.09.18 — Two EPFL researchers have just published a book highlighting the need for cities to adopt adequate governance mechanisms for their transportation systems. That will let them leverage and regulate the potential of modern – i.e., shared, automated, electric and fully integrated – mobility solutions.

EPFL unveils SolAce, a solar-powered pilot unit in Dübendorf

Published:24.09.18 — EPFL’s SolAce pilot unit was inaugurated today at the NEST R&D center on the Empa campus in Dübendorf, Switzerland. Researchers at this solar-powered unit will test out new technology designed to make buildings energy positive and carbon neutral – while providing maximum comfort for their occupants.

Another step towards the hand prosthesis of the future

Published:21.09.18 — Researchers stimulated the nerves of the amputated arm with signals very similar to the natural ones, succeeding in "imitating the colors" of the evoked sensations of the various types of receptors and related nerve fibers present in the fingertips of the hand. This has brought greater realism and greater functionality of the feelings experienced by patients.

The gene code of growing limbs

Published:21.09.18 — Scientists from EPFL and the University of Geneva have discovered a “code” of architect genes that are expressed in specific combinations during the development of hands and fingers. The study decrypts developmental gene expression at the level of the single cell in developing limbs and expands our understanding of the genetics behind growing limbs.

Preserving Chile's water with solar-powered robots

Published:20.09.18 — EPFL researchers have developed floating, solar-powered robots to help protect Chile’s water reservoirs. These low-cost robots can be assembled together in a variety of ways on the water surface to prevent the water from evaporating – thereby preserving a precious resource in this arid country and one that’s crucial to its biggest industry: winemaking.