The week in physics: Solid-state batteries; New neutrino detector in China; A physicist at Pixar

The week in physics: 10–14 November Solid-state batteries: Hype, hopes, and hurdles As conventional lithium-ion battery technology approaches its theoretical limits, researchers are studying alternative architectures with solid electrolytes. Sokseiha Muy, Kelsey Hatzell, Shirley Meng, and Yang Shao-Horn Next-generation underground neutrino detector in China up and running JUNO seeks to answer a fundamental question about the elusive particles. So do two competing experiments coming on line in the next decade. Jenessa Duncombe What can physicists do? Matt Price helps develop next-generation scientific instruments Toni Feder ADVERTISEMENT Science belongs in Congress. Apply for an AIP Fellowship. Congress needs your expertise now more than ever. From technology and energy to national security and education, sound scientific insight is essential to informed decision-making—and that's where AIP's Congressional Science Policy Fellows make their mark. Spend a year in Washington applying your scientific and technical knowledge where it matters most: shaping policy. Applications are due December 1. Learn more and apply. From the vault: August 1987 Bang: The Supernova of 1987 A stellar explosion in the Large Magellanic Cloud has ended a four‐century‐long vigil for a nearby event and started the new field of neutrino astronomy. David Helfand Q&A: Henry Garcia built carbon nanotubes. Now he simulates big red curly hair His work at Pixar on special effects and simulations blends physics and art. Toni Feder FYI science policy briefs Commerce Department moves to take cut of research patent profits; Multiple groups challenge new H-1B visa fee; Department of Energy consolidates advisory committees. Clare Zhang and Lindsay McKenzie ADVERTISEMENT Advising undergrads about life after graduation? Turn to the fall issue of SPS Observer, now available! Packed with real stories from professionals in STEM, who have stood where your students do now, this is a great tool to help guide the next generation along their post-graduation journey. Browse highlights from over 70 grad programs, get tips on cover letter writing, interview skills, and much more! Read the issue now. Post a Job Get Job Alerts Browse All Jobs Assistant Professor, Physics Education Research University of Central Florida (Orlando, FL) View Job Assistant Professor, Physics University of Cincinnati Blue Ash College (Blue Ash, OH) View Job Assistant Professor in Condensed Matter Theory University of Oklahoma (Norman, OK) View Job Chair, Materials Science and Engineering Department FAMU-FSU College of Engineering (Tallahassee, FL) View Job Assistant Professor of Physics Saginaw Valley State University (University Center, MI) View Job Assistant Professor—Physics of Materials under Extreme Conditions University of Alabama at Birmingham (Birmingham, AL) View Job Physics Today is published by the American Institute of Physics. To manage your AIP email preferences and newsletter subscriptions, click here. Or unsubscribe from all AIP emails. © 2025 American Institute of Physics. Physics Today 1 Physics Ellipse College Park, MD 20740-3842 +1 301 209 3100