Surfaces and interfaces Feature Smooth sailing Superhydrophobic surfaces with the right microscopic structures could help reduce friction on ships, as CJ Kim explains Read article: Smooth sailing
Quantum sensors Feature The cutting edge of quantum physics Daniel Twitchen and Matthew Markham explain how diamonds could become a quantum physicist’s best friend Read article: The cutting edge of quantum physics
Cosmology Feature Simulating the universe: solving Einstein’s equations of general relativity in a cosmological setting Computers are now so powerful that researchers have been able to solve Einstein’s equations of general relativity in a cosmological setting, as Tom Giblin, James Mertens and Glenn Starkman reveal Read article: Simulating the universe: solving Einstein’s equations of general relativity in a cosmological setting
Business and innovation Feature Bridging the gap in nanotech A theoretical nanoscientist examines the interface between academic research and industry Read article: Bridging the gap in nanotech
Materials Feature Commercializing the ‘wonder material’ Improvements in graphene processing are beginning to pay off, especially for aerospace applications Read article: Commercializing the ‘wonder material’
Particle and nuclear Feature Maintaining high standards: the importance of materials-science research to the nuclear industry Karl Whittle, Mahmoud Mostafavi and Philip D Edmondson explore the materials-science challenges involved in monitoring nuclear reactor components Read article: Maintaining high standards: the importance of materials-science research to the nuclear industry
Nuclear fusion Feature The long road to ignition Margaret Harris reports on progress towards fusion’s “break-even” point at the US National Ignition Facility Read article: The long road to ignition
Mathematics and computation Feature The geometry of our world: M-theory and 11D geometry Jason Lotay looks at the power of geometry to bring us a step closer to an elusive unified theory of physics Read article: The geometry of our world: M-theory and 11D geometry
Structure and properties Feature The secrets of the blue fog Oliver Henrich and Davide Marenduzzo reveal how blue liquid crystals could lead to new display devices Read article: The secrets of the blue fog
Education and outreach Feature Leadership lessons learnt in the lab Headteacher Mark Whalley says he learnt how to become a good leader thanks to his research days Read article: Leadership lessons learnt in the lab