Chris Stipes

Rice launches AI venture accelerator to fuel industry innovation in collaboration with Google Public Sector

Rice has announced the launch of the Rice AI Venture Accelerator, designed to drive early stage artificial intelligence innovation and commercialization.

Chance discovery improves stability of bioelectronic material used in medical implants, computing and biosensors

Bioelectronic devices, neural interfaces, biosensors and AI hardware are now easier to make thanks to a streamlined method for fabricating a key material.

Houstonʼs audit shows ongoing financial challenges, Baker Institute experts say

A recent audit of Houston’s finances reveals ongoing challenges, with experts warning that without major structural reforms the city could face financial instability that affects essential services.

Energy-efficient power amplifier could speed up wireless networks for 5G and beyond, cut energy use

A team of Rice electrical engineers led by Taiyun Chi developed a new kind of power amplifier that combines cutting-edge design in both circuitry and electromagnetics, delivering unprecedented efficiency even under demanding, high-speed conditions.

Rice announces Dr. Huda Zoghbi as commencement speaker for 112th ceremony

Dr. Huda Zoghbi, an internationally renowned neurogeneticist and pioneer in the field of brain research, will serve as the speaker at Rice’s 112th commencement ceremony May 10 at Rice Stadium.

Rice Biotech Launch Pad and RBL LLC to celebrate official launch and lab opening

The Rice Biotech Launch Pad and RBL LLC will hold an event to celebrate the official launch and lab opening of RBL LLC May 5, following a Rice presidential lecture delivered by Robert Langer Jr. The launch event, held at Helix Park, will also feature a keynote a keynote presentation by Robert Ruffolo Jr.

Senior Spotlight: Tyler Strothman ’25

As Rice prepares to celebrate the Class of 2025 at commencement, Rice News is spotlighting a collection of standout seniors.

Pursuit of energy solutions, need for cultivating talent in HPC and AI emerge as themes at Ken Kennedy Institute conference

High-performance computing and artificial intelligence are increasingly transforming the energy sector, providing opportunities to optimize efficiency, scalability and sustainability. The 2025 Energy HPC Conference, hosted by Rice's Ken Kennedy Institute, took stock of the current state of science and technology to explore the implications of emerging research and innovation across the industry.

Rice’s Harris explains complexities of proposed state bill to ban hemp products

Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick recently held a press conference on SB 3, a bill to ban all hemp products with cannabinoids other than cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabigerol (CBG) in Texas. An expert on drug policy from Rice University’s Baker Institute for Public Policy is available to explain the bill and comment on the implications of the policy.

Study suggests racial bias in Angel Reese-Caitlin Clark debate, examines how social media is changing the game

A new study from Rice takes a look at one of the most polarizing sports controversies in recent memory.

Rice engineer develops new security protocol to protect miniaturized wireless medical implants from cyberthreats

Rice’s Kaiyuan Yang and his team recently unveiled a first-of-its-kind authentication protocol for wireless, battery-free, ultraminiaturized implants that ensures these devices remain protected while still allowing emergency access.

Rice statistician earns CPRIT award to advance AI-powered precision medicine for prostate cancer

Rice statistician Erzsébet Merényi is part of a team of researchers awarded $1 million by the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas to develop AI tools that can identify lethal forms of prostate cancer earlier and improve treatment selection.

Neuroscience, ethics and psychedelics: Dana Foundation and Baylor experts weigh in on therapy potential

A recent symposium organized by the ENRICH office and the Rice Neuroengineering Initiative as part of the Meeting of the Minds NeuroNetworking Series explored ethics and policy in brain science today, including in the context of psychedelic-assisted therapy.

Energy Venture Day at CERAWeek selects 9 ‘most promising’ startups

Nine companies were named most promising at the annual Rice Alliance Energy Venture Day and Pitch Competition at CERAWeek March 12, co-hosted with the Houston Energy Transition Initiative and TEX-E. The event showcases energy ventures driving efficiency and advancements toward the energy transition through fields such as carbon management, advanced manufacturing, hydrogen, grid technology and more. This year’s competition was a qualifying event for the Startup World Cup, powered by Pegasus Ventures. The top-scoring venture is invited to compete in the grand finale and a $1 million investment prize.

Rice sport management faculty break down brackets, business and ‘Big Dance’ strategy

As March Madness returns this month to captivate the sports world, faculty experts from Rice University’s Department of Sport Management are available to provide insights on the NCAA Tournament’s financial impact, marketing strategies, fan engagement and the all-important selection of teams for bracket pools.