Stanford – October 19, 2026 -- Stanford University PhD student Samuel King used a generative AI model in 2025 to propose genetic blueprints for microscopic viruses, a preliminary answer to whether AI can design new life forms. The work is not yet an example of AI-generated life, though that could be the next step.

San Francisco – September 21, 2026 -- Architecture firm NBBJ has partnered with Stanford physician and health economist Dr. Kevin Schulman to redesign hospital campuses for an era of AI-driven care, as health systems commit billions of dollars to facilities meant to operate for decades under uncertain technology trajectories.

Washington – September 09, 2026 -- Arizona State University has been named one of eight universities to lead the Foundry School, a U.S. Department of State initiative run in partnership with the Department of Labor to train the next generation of American manufacturing workers.

Chicago – September 03, 2026 -- The American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) Research and Education Foundation (REF) has awarded $300,000 in research grants to four independent investigators for its 2026-2028 cycle, the third year of the program.