From "piña collider" battle bots to rocket launches: MIT students blend fun and innovation

Three students stand behind the experimental Pina Collider
First Nations Launch team honor heritage with their rocket builds
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Published by WCVB 5 Boston, April 4, 2025. 

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CAMBRIDGE, Mass. — Exploring Innovation at MIT: A Glimpse Behind the Scenes

At MIT, innovation ranges from awe-inspiring technology to down-to-earth creativity. Professor Erik Demaine’s work in computational origami blends art and mathematics to solve intricate problems, while doctoral student Sandy Curth explores eco-friendly construction using programmable mud.

On the more playful side, MIT students work together on “team builds,” such as the Combat Robotics Club and the First Nations Launch team. All clubs fall under the purview of the Edgerton Center where students are given the tools and instruction to undertake their projects.

MIT nurtures groundbreaking efforts, reminding us that creativity and science thrive together, inspiring future advancements in engineering, medicine, and beyond.

MIT President Sally Kornbluth has issued a statement on the impacts of the proposed reduction of federal funding for MIT, and research universities in general.