Read article: Microwaves map cosmic origins
Recent data from the cosmic microwave background add further weight to the inflationary big-bang model. But more precise measurements from NASA's MAP satellite could challenge this theory
Read article: Quantum carpets, carpets of light
Michael Berry, Irene Marzoli and Wolfgang Schleich on the interference of waves that weave rich tapestries in space and space–time
Read article: Soft condensed matter: where physics meets biology
Techniques used to study soft condensed matter can be applied to living systems, but there are differences in the approaches of physicists and biologists, say Wilson Poon, Tom...
Read article: The industrial physicist who has it all
Cherry Murray is vice president for physical-sciences research at Bell Labs. Valerie Jamieson finds out how she made it to the top in one of the world's most famous physics labs
Read article: Water droplets make an impact
The physics of bouncing water droplets underlies a range of industrial applications from crop spraying to ink-jet printing, explain Vance Bergeron and David Quéré
Read article: Investors in people
What attributes and personal characteristics do you need to be a successful founding entrepreneur of a start-up firm? Valerie Jamieson talks to physicists who know what it takes
Read article: Laser jocks reach the big time
Optoelectronics is flourishing in Scotland with new firms spinning off from local universities every month. Valerie Jamieson finds out why it is boom time for the region
Read article: Particles for profits
Technology transfer is alive and kicking in the high-energy physics community and has led to a wealth of applications in industry and medicine, as Valerie Jamieson discovers
Read article: Physics goes commercial
There has never been a better time for physicists to set up their own firms. We profile some of those who have gone into business and seek their advice for would-be entrepreneurs
Read article: Triumph of the small business
Matin Durrani looks at physics-based companies that have succeeded in dominating their market
