University of Tartu

Stories

Moth-inspired robot grows its own UV sensor

Led the robotic demonstration with the Italian Institute of Technology

A moth-shaped robot can grow an ultraviolet (UV) sensor inside its wing after a strong dose of UV light. The machine flushes a liquid precursor through artificial blood vessels, then uses UV exposure to polymerize a conductive plastic where the light lands.

Updated 3 days ago

Ancient DNA shows plague returned to Europe for centuries after Black Death

New Capabilities

As of September 2026: Led the genomic analysis

The Black Death killed millions when it struck Europe in 1347. It didn't stay gone. Ancient DNA now shows the plague returned again and again for more than 400 years, evolving into new lineages and spreading along trade routes, refugee trails, and military roads.

Updated Sep 20