Detecting the Elusive Graviton

A first in Stevens history, Igor Pikovski, Geoffrey S. Inman ’51 Assistant Professor, received a $1.3 million award from the W.M. Keck Foundation. This prestigious grant supports a collaboration between Stevens and Jack Harris, professor of physics at Yale University, to bridge the gap between Einstein’s theory of gravity and quantum mechanics. 

Until 2024, gravitons — particles that could mediate the unification of gravity and quantum mechanics and provide the basis for further research into quantum gravity — were considered undetectable. That’s when Pikovski and his team demonstrated that graviton detection is possible. The W.M. Keck Foundation grant will support their work to translate this breakthrough into the world’s first experiment designed to detect gravitons, an undertaking with the potential to open an entirely new frontier in physics. 

Deciphering the Molecular Quality of Bone Tissue 

The work of William Querido, assistant professor of biomedical engineering, demonstrates the connection between research at Stevens and everyday life. His study of the molecular quality of bone tissue using infrared imaging techniques goes far beyond conventional diagnostic tools, like X-rays, offering new methods to reveal tissue-level information about patients’ bones and teeth. The implications of this medical advancement are significant, with the potential to transform how osteoporosis and dental disease, as well as many other conditions, are diagnosed and treated. 

With the encouragement of MTF Biologics President Joe Yaccarino ’88, Querido applied for — and received — a three-year Established Investigator Award from the company. The funds will support Querido’s plans to establish a new lab dedicated to advancing the understanding of mineralized tissues, contributing to the development of new and improved diagnostic methods for clinicians and their patients. 

Where Physics, Astrophysics and Artificial Intelligence Meet 

The Chin Ying Foundation’s philanthropic support for the work of Xiaofeng Qian, assistant professor in the Department of Physics, is propelling Qian’s efforts to overcome one of astronomy’s most fundamental barriers: the diffraction limit that restricts how sharply telescopes can view the universe.  

By adapting and building on breakthroughs in biological imaging combined with physics-informed machine learning, Qian and his team are creating new opportunities to expand our understanding of the universe through sharper, more accurate data. 

Qian’s project, “Parameter-Decoupled Superresolution in Astrophysical Imaging,” has the potential to transform astronomical imaging, deepen understanding of the cosmos and strengthen the connections between physics, artificial intelligence and quantum science. 

A Day of Giving and Celebration 

The Stevens community came together for a record-breaking Stevens Day of Giving on February 18-19, 2026. Alumni, students, parents, faculty, staff and friends rallied behind the programs, organizations and initiatives that inspire them, raising $547,986, a more than 70% increase over 2025.  

At the Stevens Day of Giving Fair, students from nearly 20 clubs and organizations ensured that the Stevens spirit was on full display and helped build excitement across campus. A challenge gift for Engineers Without Borders, matched by 155 generous alumni, added momentum to a celebration of community and collective impact. 

All Rise for Athletics 

The 2025 All Rise Challenge showcased the strength of the Stevens Athletics community. Rallying around the charge to provide opportunities for student-athletes to lead, achieve and succeed, 1,477 supporters contributed $239,847, a 21.6% increase over the previous year.  

The men’s lacrosse team took the top spot in the Halftime Challenge, increasing its year-over-year giving by $13,467 to support equipment upgrades, performance technology and team development initiatives. 

Student advocates played a central role in the challenge’s success overall, championing their teams and inspiring 431 gifts totaling $34,608. Their efforts demonstrated the power of the Stevens Athletics community to come together to ensure student-athletes thrive in competition, in the classroom and beyond. 

The Future of Philanthropy

Young alumni are building a strong tradition of philanthropy at Stevens, supporting the experiences, programs and opportunities that matter most to them. Daniela Cardona ’17, Jared Donnelly ’24 and Nicholas Smith ’25 share what inspires them to give back and remain engaged with the university. Their stories reflect a growing culture of generosity that begins before graduation and continues long after, as students and alumni alike invest in the future of the Stevens community.