Fascinated by space but do not know where to start? What kinds of discoveries do scientists hope to make with data from missions such as the NASA’s Kepler or the James Webb Space Telescope? Asst Prof Marc Hon from NUS Physics, also NUS Presidential Young Professor, addresses these questions and more in an interview where he shares about his research interests and works in the field of astrophysics: https://www.physics.nus.edu.sg/an-interview-with-asst-prof-marc-hon/

Quantum Fall Fest is an extension of IBM Quantum’s global Qiskit Fall Fest initiative, which partners with student bodies worldwide to host campus-level events promoting quantum computing. The 2025 edition held in Singapore, which was also the inaugural session, was designed primarily for beginners and those curious about the field, with the goal of demystifying and democratising quantum computing. Read here for more: https://www.physics.nus.edu.sg/quantum-fall-fest-singapore-2025/

From delivering the first clinical treatments using proton arc therapy, developing a new type of hollow-core optical fibre that increases transmission speeds by 45% to capturing the highest-resolution images of individual atoms in the material known as moiré phasons, 2025 has witnessed significant advancement in the knowledge and understanding of the different fields in physics as well as the development of real-world applications. Here are some top picks by Physics World: https://physicsworld.com/a/top-10-breakthroughs-of-the-year-in-physics-for-2025-revealed/

From quantum computing, gravitational wave astronomy to medical imaging, physicists have been relentlessly pursuing the frontiers in physics research in the past. As we enter 2026, here's a look at one study that provides new clues to a fundamental question in science—the origins of life: https://www.nasa.gov/missions/osiris-rex/sugars-gum-stardust-found-in-nasas-asteroid-bennu-samples/. We wish all our readers a new year filled with joy, learning opportunities and wonderful discoveries 🎉.

NUS Physics hosted the inaugural Integrated Quantum & AI Computing Consortium Seminars on 8 January which brought together 16 key representatives from prominent organisations and government agencies. The event marked the launch of a strategic initiative to bridge industry, academia, and government agencies with the goal to cultivate a collaborative ecosystem in Singapore dedicated to workforce development and innovation in quantum and AI computing technologies. Read here for more: https://www.physics.nus.edu.sg/integrated-quantum-ai-computing-consortium-seminar/

The second gathering of the Physics Academic Mentorship Programme held on 14 January was attended by more than 30 Year 1 students. The Semester 2 session aimed to facilitate in-person interactions between mentors and mentees over lunch. During the session, academic mentors checked in with students on their integration and adjustment to university life as well as provided guidance on academic-related matters.

Schematic illustration of quantum terahertz qubits and emitters based on defects in two-dimensional materials [Credit: ACS Nano]

A research team led by Associate Professor Quek Su Ying from NUS Physics, using first-principles high-throughput simulations, discovered that atomic-scale substitutional dopants in ultra-thin two-dimensional materials can act as stable quantum systems operating at terahertz (THz) frequencies. This finding opens up new possibilities for realising high-temperature spin qubits and THz single-photon emitters as well as closer integration with nanophotonic structures for future quantum THz technologies. Read here for more: https://www.science.nus.edu.sg/blog/2026/01/two-dimensional-materials-for-next-generation-terahertz-quantum-devices/

Professor Andreas Walther, Professor for Macromolecular Materials and Systems at the Department of Chemistry, Johannes Gutenberg University in Mainz, as well as a Max Planck Research Fellow at the MPI for Polymer Research, visited NUS Physics and delivered a lively colloquium titled “Programming DNA Matter Inspired from Life and Interfacing with Life” on 28 Jan. During his talk, Professor Walther shared about approaches to  bridge artificial cells and mechanobiology, positioning DNA as a unifying materials platform to study mechanochemical feedback and adaptive behaviour at the interface of synthetic and living systems.

FOS Distinguished Visitor Professor Efthimios Kaxiras, presently the John Hasbrouck Van Vleck Professor of Pure and Applied Physics at Harvard University, visited NUS Physics from 2 to 6 February. During his visit, Professor Efthimios delivered two graduate seminars and a colloquium. His research focuses on the remarkable properties of two-dimensional layered materials, particularly ‘twistronics’—a term introduced by his research group—which originated from the experimental discovery of correlated electron behaviour and superconductivity in twisted bilayer graphene. Read here for more: https://www.physics.nus.edu.sg/distinguished-visitor-lecture-series-professor-efthimios-kaxiras/

A symposium between the National University of Singapore (NUS) Faculty of Science and the Seoul National University (SNU) College of Natural Sciences on AI for Science was held at NUS Physics this week. The SNU delegation visited NUS to explore synergies in AI for Science research and education, and to learn more about NUS Physics’ innovative AI for Science MSc programme, including the AI for Science Gym. Read here for more:
https://www.physics.nus.edu.sg/nus-snu-ai-for-science-symposium/

Scientists at CERN have fully reconstructed particle collisions at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) using the new machine-learning-based particle-flow algorithm. Employing modern electronic chips called graphics processing units, this approach demonstrates how new uses of machine learning enable more accurate reconstruction of LHC data and could directly benefit measurements, from precision tests of the Standard Model to searches for new particles. Read here for more: 
https://phys.org/news/2026-02-machine-algorithm-fully-reconstructs-lhc.html

Professor Lo Hoi-Kwong from NUS Physics has been awarded the Leonard Mandel Quantum Optics Award in recognition of his contributions including the invention of decoy-state and measurement-device-independent quantum key distribution as well as the all-photonic quantum repeater. A principal investigator at the Centre for Quantum Technologies, Professor Lo began his research in quantum information more than three decades ago, well before it emerged as a major field in physics. Read here for more: https://www.cqt.sg/highlight/2026-02-hoi-kwong-lo-wins-award/

The National University of Singapore (NUS) Open House will be held on campus on 7 March from 9 am to 6 pm at University Town. Prospective students and visitors can get first-hand knowledge about admissions, academic programmes, scholarships, and campus life, as well as chat with professors to explore NUS’ flexible curriculum and endless academic pathways. They can also interact with student leaders, catch some performances and get a feel for the activities that bring campus to life. Click here to find out more: https://www.nus.edu.sg/openhouse/

Singapore’s quantum ecosystem has been further strengthened with the opening of a new R&D and operations centre by US-based firm Quantinuum.The centre aims to co-develop commercially relevant quantum solutions through collaborations with local researchers and industry partners. Besides growing Singapore’s capabilities in hardware and components across the quantum computing value chain, the firm’s presence is expected to boost the local pipeline of quantum specialists through its internships and other programmes. Read here for more: https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/new-rd-centre-set-up-in-spore-to-spur-growth-of-quantum-computing-applications

For almost a century, the good old Scotch tape has found many common applications, from fixing torn book pages to wrapping gifts. Ever wondered how rapid peeling of the tape gives rise to the high-pitched screeching sound? Research shows it is the result of shock waves produced by micro-cracks propagating along the tape at supersonic speeds. Read more about the physics of the “screeching” Scotch tape here: https://arstechnica.com/science/2026/02/heres-why-scotch-tape-screeches-when-its-peeled/

As global energy crisis deepens, low-carbon alternative like nuclear energy seems a viable option to bolster energy security. The Singapore Government is increasing its emphasis on capability building in nuclear energy with the recent commissioning of three nuclear safety studies (read more here). So what exactly is the power hidden in nuclear energy? Read here for more on the physics of nuclear power: https://www.iaea.org/newscenter/news/what-is-nuclear-energy-the-science-of-nuclear-power

Ms Najat Mokhtar (middle) and delegates from IAEA visited CIBA and NUS Physics

NUS Physics was pleased to host Deputy Director General Ms Najat Mokhtar and delegates from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on 26 March. They visited the Centre for Ion Beam Applications (CIBA) and NUS Physics to explore potential collaboration in research and technical development. The discussions highlighted opportunities under IAEA programmes such as the Coordinated Research Projects and the Technical Cooperation Programme, and how Singapore-based research can contribute to regional and global impact. Read here for more: https://www.physics.nus.edu.sg/visit-by-iaea-delegates-to-ciba-and-nus-physics/

Figure (a) shows the formation of a DNA tether. Figure (b) illustrates the design of the engineered Piezo1 construct and the DNA-based force transduction system. (Credit: Nature Sensors)

A research team led by Professor Liu Xiaogang and Professor Yan Jie from NUS Physics has developed a new method to directly measure how tiny mechanical forces activate a key protein in our cells, known as Piezo1, a sensor that allows cells to “feel” physical forces. This approach attaches Piezo1 to tiny beads using strands of DNA, and can be adapted to investigate other force-sensitive proteins, offering a versatile tool to better understand how mechanical forces influence biological processes. Read here for more: https://www.science.nus.edu.sg/blog/2026/04/force-sensing-in-cells-at-the-single-molecule-level/

A journey 10 days long. A journey that broke crewed space records. A journey that revived humanity's pursuit of lunar exploration.

Artemis II.

On 2 April 2026, 6.35AM SGT, NASA's Space Launch System launched the Orion spacecraft, carrying four astronauts towards the Moon. This followed a free-return trajectory of 406771km—the furthest space flight distance travelled by mankind.

The Orion spacecraft splashed down on 11 April 2026, 8.07AM SGT, making a record for the fastest crewed re-entry speed at roughly 11 km/s.

Artemis II, the first crewed Artemis flight, marks a key step towards a long-term return to the Moon and future missions to Mars. The crew tested the spacecraft’s life support systems and completed a series of tests to evaluate and validate other critical operations.

What's next? Learn more from NASA.

At the recent Physics Engagement Day 2026, participants were introduced to the curriculum, research opportunities, and career pathways for physics graduates. The programme also featured lectures by faculty, research lab tours, and a stargazing session. It is hoped that prospective students are now better positioned to make decisions about their choice of major following their orientation in the department.