The Polytechnic

James Misewich, a national leader in quantum computing research, has left Brookhaven National Laboratory to join Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. The move brings a prominent figure in the US quantum information science effort to RPI, likely to strengthen its quantum computing programs and research initiatives. The announcement came through RPI's own news channel and has drawn modest attention so far.

A professor at Purdue Polytechnic has secured a patent for solar cell technology that can perform two functions at once. The development is being highlighted by Purdue Polytechnic itself as an example of the institution's applied research in renewable energy. Details about how the dual-function design works and its potential commercial applications have not yet been widely reported, so the practical impact of the patent remains to be seen.

Purdue Polytechnic High School students visited Purdue University to explore the Horticulture and Landscape Architecture programs and its gardens. The visit gave students a first-hand look at the university's horticulture offerings and campus growing spaces, highlighting pathways from the high school into Purdue academic programs.

A feature in The Polytechnic, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute's student newspaper, explores the tradition of "Pie Your Physics Professors," framing it as a lighthearted "Newton's Fourth Law." The piece highlights students and faculty taking part in the fundraising or campus- spirit event, with professors agreeing to be hit in the face with pies. Readers are drawn to the playful side of a demanding department.

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute's men's tennis team defeated Bard College in its first Liberty League match of the season, according to an announcement from RPI Athletics. The win gives the Engineers a winning start to their conference schedule. Details on the final score and individual results were not provided.

An assistant dean at Purdue Polytechnic has published a new book examining how creative teams collaborate in the themed entertainment industry, which spans theme parks, attractions and immersive experiences. The publication draws on professional practice to explore how designers, engineers and storytellers work together on large-scale entertainment projects.

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute is running a 'Pie Your Professors' event, playfully dubbed 'Newton's Fourth Law,' in which students throw pies at faculty members. Campus coverage highlights the lighthearted tradition bringing students and professors together, typically as a fundraiser or community event where professors volunteer to take a pie for a good cause.