Two Brookhaven researchers developed theoretical model to explain the origins of self-replicating molecules.

Method for growing 'hybrid' crystals at the nanoscale incorporates quantum dots into a host nanowire with perfect junctions between the components.

Workload handling software has broad potential to maximize use of available supercomputing resources.

Key sign of quark-gluon plasma (QGP) and evidence for a long-debated quantum phenomenon.

Scientists alter attractive and repulsive forces between DNA-linked particles to make dynamic, phase-shifting forms of nanomaterials.

New technique developed at Brookhaven Lab makes self-assembly 1,000 times faster and could be used for industrial-scale solar panels and electronics.

New approach to designing ordered composite materials for possible energy applications.

The elusive quantum phenomenon—called van Vleck magnetism—may allow scientists to manipulate topological insulators and engineer new electronics.

Delivering the capability to image nanostructures and chemical reactions down to nanometer resolution requires a new class of x-ray microscope that can perform precision microscopy experiments using ultra-bright x-rays from the National Synchrotron Light Source II (NSLS-II) at Brookhaven National Laboratory. This groundbreaking instrument, designed to deliver a suite of unprecedented x-ray imaging capabilities for the Hard X-ray Nanoprobe (HXN) beamline, brings researchers one step closer to the ultimate goal of nanometer resolution at NSLS-II, a U.S. Department of Energy Office of Science User Facility.

Data from the Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider (RHIC) and other experiments nearly rule out role of 'dark photons' as an explanation for the 'g-2' anomaly.

Advance could lead to quantum computing and the secure transfer of information over long-distance fiber optic networks.

Nanostructured surface textures—with shapes inspired by the structure of moths' eyes—prevent the reflection of light off silicon, improving conversion of sunlight to electricity.

New family of materials produces "twin" electrical charges on single molecules, potentially paving the way for easy manufacture of more efficient solar devices.

Brookhaven Lab and Stony Brook University scientists use x-rays to map internal atomic transformations and advance promising lithium-based batteries.

From new insights into the building blocks of matter to advances in understanding batteries, superconductors, and a protein that could help fight cancer, 2014 was a year of stunning successes for the U.S. Department of Energy's Brookhaven National Laboratory. Oh, and did we mention the opening of a brand new facility that will push the limits of discovery across the scientific spectrum? For details on these and the rest of our Top-10 breakthroughs, check out the items below. You can follow Brookhaven Lab on Facebook, Twitter, and Tumblr to learn about the discoveries of 2015 as they happen.