Donostia International Physics Center (DIPC) is a singular research center born in 2000 devoted to research at the cutting edge in the fields of Condensed Matter Physics and Materials Science. Since its conception DIPC has stood for the promotion of excellence in research, which demands a flexible space where creativity is stimulated by diversity of perspectives. Its dynamic research community integrates local host scientists and a constant flow of international visiting researchers.
A quiet revolution is unfolding in the study of distant galaxies, one that lets astronomers pinpoint individual stars across the vast gulfs of time and space. Using the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), a team of researchers has identified over 40 individual stars in a single galaxy located halfway across the observable universe. These stars […]
Quantum simulation, a concept that once seemed like science fiction, is now revolutionizing the way physicists study the quantum world. The idea, famously suggested by Richard Feynman in the 1980s, is to use a controllable quantum system to mimic the behaviour of another system that is too complex to study directly. Over time, researchers have […]
Imagine a world where light, instead of merely bouncing off surfaces or passing through transparent materials, is controlled in a completely new and unexpected way. Scientists have recently taken a major step in this direction by discovering what is called a “photonic axion insulator.” While this term might sound complicated, the underlying idea is both […]
The interplay between the electron and phonon dynamics in 2D materials is a complex and fascinating subject. By examining the behaviour of NbSe₂ on graphene, a new study has provided new insights into how substrates influence superconductivity through moiré phonons. In recent years, the study of two-dimensional (2D) materials has transformed the field of condensed […]
X-ray fluorescence imaging (XFI) is a powerful technique that enables scientists to visualize and map the distribution of elements within various samples, including biological tissues. By detecting the unique fluorescent signals emitted by elements when they are excited by X-rays, XFI provides detailed information about the elemental composition and spatial distribution in a non-destructive manner […]
Water, a substance so familiar in our daily lives, harbours complexities that continue to intrigue scientists. One such enigma is the behaviour of water when it transforms into a glass-like state, known as vitrification, especially under confinement. A recent study delves into this phenomenon, shedding light on the intricate nature of confined water vitrification and […]
In the vast expanse of the universe, galaxies are not isolated islands but are interconnected through a vast network known as the “cosmic web.” This intricate structure, composed of dark matter and gas, forms the backbone of the cosmos, guiding the formation and evolution of galaxies. Recent advancements have allowed astronomers to capture a high-definition […]
Superconductivity, the phenomenon where electrical current flows without resistance, has long captivated scientists and engineers. This unique state of matter holds promise for revolutionizing technologies, from power grids to magnetic levitation. A recent study delves into the intriguing world of graphene-based superconductors, shedding light on how twisting multiple layers of graphene can influence their superconducting […]
Hydrogels are fascinating materials that can absorb and retain large amounts of water, making them useful in various fields such as medicine, environmental science, and engineering. A recent study has explored a new type of hydrogels made from cellulose nanofibres (CNFs) and lignocellulose nanofibres (LCNFs), aiming to enhance their strength and water-absorbing capabilities. Cellulose and […]
Cement is a fundamental material in modern construction, used in everything from buildings to bridges. One of its key components, tricalcium aluminate (C₃A), plays a crucial role in determining cement’s setting time and durability. A recent study has provided new insights into how C₃A behaves under heat, combining computer simulations with experimental data to deepen […]