Research

In the realm of physics, electrons are a particularly curious “species,” functioning as both particles and waves, they can take on many forms. One such form is the twisted electron – a particle of critical importance to researchers. Getting them “in shape,” however, can be tricky and isn’t suitable for particle accelerators.

A recent paper by researchers from ITMO has teased the possibility of producing twisted electrons with the help of a laser beam – a previously unsuccessful endeavor and one that would revolutionize this particular field of study. Practical testing of the new method is slated for early 2025.

Read more: ITMO Physicists Twist Electrons for Particle Accelerator Experiments

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ITMO’s hometown, St. Petersburg, is known for many things, not least for the many legendary scientists who lived and worked here. Throughout the month, locals and guests of the city can get to learn about the cultural capital’s scientific past, present, and future in depth thanks to a new initiative of ITMO’s Center for Science Communication.

Read also: ITMO and Russian Science Foundation Celebrate 10-Year Anniversary of Collaboration

All around town, physicists, programmers, and other experts will deliver free lectures on a wide range of topics. At the same time, team games and quizzes will be run for those who prefer a more hands-on approach to learning. Guided tours, comic books, experimental music, and even souvenirs – there’ll be plenty to experience.

Read more: Scientific St. Petersburg: See a Different Side to the City

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In recent decades, the world has made leaps in regards to accessibility and inclusivity – especially when it comes to the digital realm. And yet, there is still a ways to go before the needs of people with disabilities are fully embraced by developers and entrepreneurs.

Recently, ITMO.NEWS chatted with Alyona Dzhumagulova, an engineer and lecturer at ITMO’s Center for Usability and Mixed Reality, to learn about the basic principles of digital accessibility, current advances in the field and at ITMO, and the potential benefits of AI for inclusivity.

Read more: Digital (Un)Accessibility: How to Make Websites and Social Media Convenient for All

University

ITMO’s Youth Robotics Lab is a common fixture of our reporting; year after year, its team emerges victorious from various robotics competitions around the globe. Most recently, the team took part in the Russian stage of the international contest RoboCup – and brought home a silver medal, awarded in the category Show with Robots. 

Making its debut at the event was their star project, the robot saxophonist Fantastic Robby Brown, the newest in a long pedigree of the lab’s robotic musicians. Who knows, we may see a full-on orchestra performance next year!

Read more: From Saxophonist to Roboticist: ITMO Team Takes Second Place at RoboCup Russia

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Get ready to win – the new season of I Am a Professional has begun. The annual competition for students of Russian universities is currently accepting applications (the deadline is November 12) from Bachelor’s and Master’s students. This year’s topic is Study and Work in Russia – and the prizes range from 100,000 to 300,000 rubles, along with other bonuses.

Read more: I Am a Professional: Top Student Contest Begins 8th Season

Read also: Ace Your Tests and Win a Million: New Innovation-Focused Hackathon Starts at ITMO

Help the Dark Store: Winners of Hackathon by ITMO and VkusVill Grocery Chain