News & Media

Transforming Alloy Design

Grainger engineers have developed a machine-learning method called Material Spatial Intelligence that creates detailed spatial maps of metal alloys’ microstructures, similar to how fingerprints uniquely identify individuals.

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Engineering Solutions

Fueled by curiosity and collaboration, Grainger engineers are pushing the limits of discovery — reimagining what's possible and taking on humanity's most pressing challenges.

Gene E. Robinson announced as Executive Director and CEO of Discovery Partners Institute

A distinguished scholar and leader, Robinson will lead DPI into its next chapter focused on AI, innovation and statewide impact. He has served as Director of the Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology (IGB) since 2012.

Two Grainger engineers elected to National Academy of Inventors

Rohit Bhargava, Professor of Bioengineering and Grainger Distinguished Chair in Engineering, and Jean-Pierre Leburton, Gregory Stillman Emeritus Professor of Electrical and Computer Engineering Emeritus, are among the 169 distinguished academic and institutional inventors and 16 International Fellows named to the 2025 class.

Grainger Engineering-led team tackles computing energy crisis

The Alliance for Maximizing Power Efficiency in Data Centers is bringing industry leaders and top Grainger Engineering researchers together to solve problems at the nexus of computing and energy.

Grainger Engineering startups lead AI innovation in Y Combinator Fall 2025 batch

Our alumni and students are leading the AI revolution, co-founding seven of the eight U. of I. startups that successfully completed the highly competitive Y Combinator accelerator program this fall. 

Paul Kwiat, LabEscape named to international Quantum 100 list

Paul Kwiat has been named to the international Quantum 100 list for his seminal contributions to quantum physics and innovative approach to public engagement — specifically LabEscape, the world's first quantum-themed science-based escape room.

Illinois announces first dual-credit initiative, bringing courses directly to high school students

Starting in the 2026-2027 academic year, CS/STAT 107: Data Science Discovery will be one of four U. of I. courses taught in the classrooms of select Illinois high schools as part of the new Dual Credit Learning Accelerator initiative.