Research
Research that matters
The Beckman Institute is a community of researchers that use state-of-the-art facilities to transcend traditional boundaries.
Our three research themes:
- create better imaging tools
- study intelligence
- harness molecules for better drugs, materials, and more
Research that matters
The Beckman Institute is a community of researchers that use state-of-the-art facilities to transcend traditional boundaries.
Our three research themes:
- create better imaging tools
- study intelligence
- harness molecules for better drugs, materials, and more
Beckman's Luthey-Schulten and team simulate a living cell at nanoscale resolution
A team based at the University of Illinois simulated a living cell at nanoscale resolution. By simulating the life cycle of a minimal bacterial cell, scientists have opened a new frontier of computer vision into the essential processes of life. Read articleBeckman's Luthey-Schulten and team simulate a living cell at nanoscale resolution
Pushing the boundaries of neuroAI
Since it was founded, the Beckman Institute has been a hub for studying intelligence. Today, its expert researchers and interdisciplinary labs are pushing the boundaries of neuroscience and artificial intelligence to lead the neuroAI revolution.
Pushing the boundaries of neuroAI
Since it was founded, the Beckman Institute has been a hub for studying intelligence. Today, its expert researchers and interdisciplinary labs are pushing the boundaries of neuroscience and artificial intelligence to lead the neuroAI revolution.
Alleyne investigates grasshopper wings to inspire robot design
Marianne Alleyne collaborated with Princeton University engineers to study the structure of foldable grasshopper hindwings. The researchers took CT scans of these wings and 3D-printed model wings to test which traits contribute to efficient gliding flight. Read articleAlleyne investigates grasshopper wings to inspire robot design
Video
Beckman MRI speaks for itself
Using some of the fastest MRI technology in the world, Beckman researchers can see the physical mechanics of the spoken (or sung) word. This speed has allowed researchers to begin exploring the structural nuances of emotional speech.
Video
Beckman MRI speaks for itself
Using some of the fastest MRI technology in the world, Beckman researchers can see the physical mechanics of the spoken (or sung) word. This speed has allowed researchers to begin exploring the structural nuances of emotional speech.
Video
The wheelchair of the future, the ballbot
The ballbot wheelchair may be the future of mobility assistance. Researchers from across the University of Illinois campus have created a Star Wars-inspired robotic wheelchair that uses a single, rolling ball to provide a hands-free, intuitive, and flexible device for users.
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The wheelchair of the future, the ballbot
The ballbot wheelchair may be the future of mobility assistance. Researchers from across the University of Illinois campus have created a Star Wars-inspired robotic wheelchair that uses a single, rolling ball to provide a hands-free, intuitive, and flexible device for users.
Grown from a seed: Researchers receive $2.7M NIH grant to investigate effects of phthalate exposure
Stemming from a 2024 Beckman Institute seed research project, Beckman researchers received a grant to explore developmental exposure to phthalates.
Read articleGrown from a seed: Researchers receive $2.7M NIH grant to investigate effects of phthalate exposure
Stemming from a 2024 Beckman Institute seed research project, Beckman researchers received a grant to explore developmental exposure to phthalates.
Become a Beckman researcher
Whether you're a student hoping make a difference, already leading research on campus, or thinking about becoming a faculty member at the University of Illinois, the Beckman Institute could be the right place for you.
Become a Beckman researcher
Whether you're a student hoping make a difference, already leading research on campus, or thinking about becoming a faculty member at the University of Illinois, the Beckman Institute could be the right place for you.
Research initiatives
Beckman’s interdisciplinary community brings new research projects together beyond our traditional working groups.Research initiatives
Beckman’s interdisciplinary community brings new research projects together beyond our traditional working groups.
Core research facilities
Beckman is home to four core research facilities, which are stocked with state-of-the-art equipment and knowledgeable staff members who are ready to help.
Core research facilities
Beckman is home to four core research facilities, which are stocked with state-of-the-art equipment and knowledgeable staff members who are ready to help.
Research images
The latest research images from Instagram.
Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology