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Articles on Grand Challenges

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Bringing scientific research online can help improve collaboration to a degree. Hiroshi Watanabe/DigitalVision via Getty Images

Building better brain collaboration online – despite scientific squabbles, the decade-long Human Brain Project brought measurable success to neuroscience collaboration

The European Union’s 10-year Human Brain Project is coming to a close. Whether this controversial 1 billion-euro project achieved its aims is unclear, but its online forum did foster collaboration.
The U.S. BRAIN Initiative seeks to elucidate the connection between brain structure and function. Science Photo Library - PASIEKA/Brand X Pictures via Getty Images

Illuminating the brain one neuron and synapse at a time – 5 essential reads about how researchers are using new tools to map its structure and function

From figuring out where memories are stored to how sensory information translates to behavior, new technologies are helping neuroscientists better understand how the brain works.
Many prizes that aim to spur innovation are winner-take-all. VCG for 2019 RoboMaster Robotics Competition Final Tournament via Getty Images

Want to solve society’s most urgent problems? Cash prizes can spur breakthroughs

Society has never faced more pressing challenges. Researchers are investigating how monetary prizes can help focus innovators’ attention, creativity and investment on finding solutions.
Dealing with grand challenges: It’s not about the rains, it’s about the drains. Shutterstock

How some corporations can have positive impact in communities

Companies can make a significant contribution to the resilience of communities, and they need not do so only for philanthropic or regulatory reasons. At times, it makes good business sense.
Scientists have struggled to work together to provide solutions for societal challenges such as energy and climate change. Reuters/Siphiwe Sibeko

Collaboration plan for South African scientists fails to take off

There is a long road to travel before South Africa’s scientists live up to the grand expectations to encourage solutions to the country’s problems and boost the economy.

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