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Meet & Greet with Laura Galloway
Laura Galloway began her new role as dean of Whitworth University’s School of Business on July 1 after relocating to Spokane from San Diego, where she previously worked for University of Massachusetts Global, a California-based online institution, most recently as associate vice chancellor for institutional curriculum, assessment, and academic policy.
New book breaks down the science behind swimming
Former University of Hawaiʻi head swim coach Jans Prins breaks down the biomechanics of swimming in his new book, “Freestyle Biomechanics.”
Reincarnation: What Science Says and Doesn’t (or Can’t) Say
Inside a University of Virginia lab, scientists have spent nearly six decades gathering unsettling evidence: children who recall violent deaths, bear matching birthmarks, and know facts they never could have learned. A grieving skeptic investigates whether reincarnation might just be real.
I dropped out of university and built five beauty businesses. Here's what I learned
Marcia Kilgore, founder of Beauty Pie, shares her top tips on how to create a successful business.
University of Utah Team Selected for NSF Initiative to Shape the Future of AI in Science Education
A multidisciplinary team will help design AI-powered learning tools that strengthen scientific thinking in K–12 classrooms. As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly integrated into classrooms and...
Student entrepreneurs learn business by starting one
University of Rochester student entrepreneurs have built and launched companies as part of their campus learning experiences.
Ohio University Lancaster to launch Associate of Applied Science in Nursing program in Spring 2027
The addition of the nursing program represents another step in Ohio University Lancaster’s commitment to expanding access to high-quality, career-focused education that meets the needs of the communities it serves.
Weaving WEBS of Science at Wilkes
It may be summer break, but more than 100 someday scientists spent a week living the lab life at the We’re Empowered by Science camp on Wilkes University’s campus. The camp, better known by its...
UAMS Names Wendy N. Nembhard, Ph.D., MPH, as Dean of the Fay W. Boozman College of Public Health
LITTLE ROCK — The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) named Wendy N. Nembhard, Ph.D., MPH, as the next dean of the Fay W. Boozman College of Public Health, effective Sept. 1.
How Columbia Changed My Politics
A former liberal reflects on how Columbia University's reaction to the 2016 election and its culture of ideological conformity reshaped her politics.
Exclusive: NCAA flags second Tennessee athletics student worker for sports gambling
For second time in a year, a student worker in the University of Tennessee athletics department was flagged by the NCAA for online sports gambling.
What's the Antidote to Political Polarization?
As the United States commemorates 250 years of independence in 2026, the landmark event has arrived during a time of increased political polarization. According to a recent Pew Research Center study, 69% of Americans are dissatisfied with how things are going in the U.S., and 59% believe the country’s best days are behind it. Yet a majority (68%) still feel hopeful about the nation’s future. Bestselling author, social scientist, and Vanderbilt University professor Dr. Arthur Brooks shares that optimism—in part because he sees a clear path out of the divisiveness.
Greater West Dayton Incubator’s new location to open : University of Dayton, Ohio
The Greater West Dayton Incubator will host a community open house 2 to 6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 13, at its new permanent location at 1169 W. Third St.
New UD Health and Wellbeing Center opens Aug. 3 to serve students : University of Dayton, Ohio
UD's new Health and Wellbeing Center will open soon and begin providing services to students at the new student health and counseling centers.
PPPL, Princeton Launch Plasma Science Research Program
The U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) and Princeton University have launched a new graduate research
Clinical and Translational Science Institute Celebrates $29 Million Award and 20 Years of Impact
The University of Rochester Medicine Clinical and Translational Science Institute (CTSI) received grants totaling more than $29 million from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to support translational science and research that improves human health outcomes.
Meet the New Dean of Michigan Tech’s College of Business
Building bridges to student success, industry impact and enduring alumni engagement. Strengthening joint programs and collaborative research across campus. Leveling up as a campus partner in innovation and commercialization. Michigan Technological University's newest academic leader, College of Business Dean Sri Beldona, shares his priorities and a vision for the future.
Prototype smart ring cracks the holy grail of non-invasive blood sugar measurement
A prototype smart ring developed by engineers at the University of California appears to have cracked one of the holy...
Sonoma State to relaunch NCAA athletics after budget cuts eliminated sports
The university faced outcry and a lawsuit over its decision to eliminate sports last year as part of broader cuts to close a $24 million deficit.
Cooper University Health Care receives historic $100 million gift
Cooper University Healthcare has received one of the largest financial gifts in its history.
A tiny molecular basket unlocks a powerful new kind of chemistry
Rice University chemists have found a new way to make neodymium, a rare-earth metal, interact with oxygen. Using a specially designed molecular structure described as a “basket,” the team positioned the atoms so they could form a bond once thought unlikely. The breakthrough produced highly reactive compounds that could eventually give chemists alternatives to iron-based molecules used in biological reactions and chemical manufacturing.
Get to Know Your Foe: Utah State
Welcome to week two of Get to Know Your Foe. After examining the Fresno State Bulldogs last week, we travel to Logan, Utah, to check out the Utah State Aggies. Another fellow land-grant university, Utah State University, was founded in 1888 with a focus on agriculture, military science, and training for all branches of the […]
Internship offers Ohio State students international work experience
Estelle Apewokin and Matthew Wolfe, students at The Ohio State University who are majoring in science-related fields and are also studying French, say they gained valuable academic and work experience by participating in the Students in Life Sciences Abroad (STILSA) internship program over the spring semester.STILSA is an international education...
Sources: Notre Dame passes Ohio State for richest patch deal
Notre Dame has reached a multi-year deal with SoFi Technologies that will place the financial service company's brand on the Fighting Irish's jerseys in every sport starting this season, the university announced Tuesday.
Learn about saffron and more at NMSU field day in Los Lunas
PHOTO CAPTION: Participants in the 2023 field day hosted by New Mexico State University’s Agricultural Science Center at Los Lunas tour the center’s various plots, including native grass plots....
UMW’s Summer Science Institute Showcases Student Discovery From Lab to Lectern
byOne by one, University of Mary Washington students stepped to the podium or stood beside posters, ready to present the results of 10 weeks of intensive research to faculty, classmates and judges. As the symposium progressed, students grew increasingly confident, discussing their findings and fielding questions like seasoned researchers.Now in its 27th year, the Irene […]
George Norcross donates $100 million to Cooper University Health Care
George E. Norcross III is making a $100 million gift to Cooper University Health Care, the largest single philanthropic donation in the Camden-based
Researchers find simple habit to improve physical and mental health
University of Missouri researchers have identified a simple, effective way to improve quality of life. A new study found that maintaining a consistent daily routine can reduce physical pain and ease symptoms ...
Cooper University Health Care gets $100M from NJ power broker George Norcross
George Norcross donated $100 million to Cooper University Health Care and the MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper, officials announced Tuesday.
Ally Financial marketing chief Andrea Brimmer to speak at UM-Flint Business Summit
The University of Michigan-Flint will host keynote speaker Andrea Brimmer of Ally Financial at its third-annual Business Summit on Aug. 25.
WVU Medicine contributes $9 million to advance public health initiatives in Monongalia County
MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – The West Virginia University (WVU) Health System today (July 28) made a $9 million contribution to the Monongalia County Commission to expand preventive health services and strengthen community health programs that serve uninsured,...
Four-paper series broadens sex workers' health focus beyond HIV prevention
A new four-paper series in The Lancet Public Health reflects a two-year collaboration among researchers at San Diego State University and the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, the Global ...
George E. Norcross III to Donate $100 Million to Cooper University Health Care/MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper in Honor of His Parents, George E. Norcross Jr. and Anne Carol Conner Norcross
George E. Norcross III to Donate $100 Million to Cooper University Health Care/MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper in Honor of His Parents, George E. Norcross Jr. and Anne Carol Conner Norcross Three Generations of Norcross Family Members Have Dedicated More Than 50 Years to Cooper Gift Is One of the Largest in New Jersey and[...]
Stony Brook University Researchers Chosen for DOE Genesis Mission AI-for-Science Awards
July 27, 2026 — Researchers at the State University of New York at Stony Brook (Stony Brook University) secured five inaugural awards through the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Genesis Mission, a national AI-for-science initiative designed to accelerate scientific discovery and strengthen U.S. leadership in innovation, energy and national security. The awards reinforce Stony Brook University’s […]
Sports are returning to Sonoma State in Fall 2027, school officials say
Sports are returning to Sonoma State University in Fall 2027 as part of a campus-wide initiative aimed at "reimagining" the school and its programs, according to the university's president.
USF Health welcomes record-breaking incoming class of medical students
University of South Florida
Better health care: Clemson, Prisma examine human factors
Clemson University faculty and Prisma Health clinicians have launched interdisciplinary research into system processes and procedures, or "human factors," that may impact patient experiences and job satisfaction among healthcare providers.
Texas A&M University joins the Genesis Mission to transform science using artificial intelligence
The U.S. Department of Energy announces projects in its unprecedented effort to use AI to accelerate science, harness new energy sources and bolster national security.
Fall Coaches Kick-Off 2026-2027 Season on Fall Sports Media Day
Wheeling, W. Va. - Since the Wheeling Men's Golf team finished up NCAA DII National Championship play in May, the Wheeling University Athletic Department has been preparing for the start of the 2026-2027 season. Monday would serve as the unofficial kickoff of the 26-27 campaign, when all the Wheeling Fall Sports Coaches came together for the second annual Fall Sports Media Day. Each of Wheeling's 10 fall sports programs were represented by their seven head coaches, as they previewed the action to come this season.
Family Medicine Physician Charles Jones, M.D., Joins UAMS Health Family Medical Center in Helena-West Helena
Charles Jones, M.D., has joined the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) Family Medical Center in Helena-West Helena, where he will offer primary care for all ages.
Stockton Names New Deans for Health Sciences and Business
Shannon ‘Nikki’ Clifford and Dennis Yu joined university on July 13
Stockton Names New Deans for Health Sciences and Business
Shannon ‘Nikki’ Clifford and Dennis Yu joined university on July 13
New Venezuelan Oil Regulations Offer Promise, But Politics and Quake Recovery Threaten Investment - Center on Global Energy Policy at Columbia University SIPA
Get the latest as our experts share their insights on global energy policy.
How studying sustainability in Southeast Asia changed the way I see international business
Education abroad is as much about building human connections as it is about learning. An Honors College student took advantage of the chance to explore the world and gain new perspective.
UT Health San Antonio uncovers potential strategy for safer cancer treatments
Contact: Eileen Teves, 210-450-7239, tevese@uthscsa.edu Content provided by Claire Kowalick SAN ANTONIO, July 27, 2026 – Scientists at UT Health San Antonio, the academic health center of The University of Texas at San Antonio (UT San Antonio), have found a potential path to maintaining the cancer-fighting benefits of one type of immunotherapy while limiting harmful […]
Clemson scientists launch international food security partnership during visit to Nigeria
The partnership will expand research collaboration, graduate education and international engagement between Clemson University and IITA in Africa.
International Fellows explore AI, science, and policy in Pittsburgh
The U.S. Army War College International Fellows Class of 2027 visited Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh to hear from experts on artificial intelligence, software engineering, public policy and science, with a focus on how research and innovation support military leadership and decision-making.
Three George Mason faculty members elected to Virginia Academy of Science, Engineering, and Medicine
The 2026 elected class includes individuals from the George Mason University: Liping Di of the College of Science, Dean Melissa J. Perry of the College of Public Health, and Siddhartha Sikdar of the College of Engineering and Computing.
You think U.S. politics have never been worse? It has, says this Utah professor and podcaster.
Rabic partisanship and fake news are not new ideas in America, a Utah Valley University professor argues. He explains why in his new book.
Follow the Money: UK trustees keep giving big to Beshear
FRANKFORT – Ruth Day contributed another $15,000 to the Kentucky Democratic Party on June 16, ten days before Gov. Andy Beshear appointed her to the University of Kentucky Board of Trustees.
Biotech is ‘leading innovative science, not universities’
Sharper mission and team ethos of pharma companies make them more effective than university labs, says Nobelist Fred Ramsdell
A conversation wtih Shawn Eichorst ahead of Big Ten media days
The new University of Wisconsin director of athletes brings recent experiences, old ties ... and quotes back to Madison.
A conversation with Shawn Eichorst ahead of Big Ten media days
The new University of Wisconsin director of athletes brings recent experiences, old ties ... and quotes back to Madison.
SCC, Appalachian Ink Health Science Agreement
By Kaylie Simmons Southeastern Community College Southeastern Community College students pursuing careers in healthcare now have a new pathway to earn a bachelor’s degree through a transfer agreement with Appalachian State University. A memorandum of understanding between Appalachian State and participating North Carolina community colleges creates a streamlined transfer option for eligible SCC graduates to continue their education…
LANL: UC ‘AI Science At Scale’ Summit Showcases Landmark Innovations With Senior National Lab Leadership Including DDSTE Pat Fitch Present
Attendees of the UC ‘AI Science at Scale’ summit held on June 11 in Santa Fe. Courtesy/LANL LANL News: On June 11, 2026, the University of California (UC) convened researchers and leaders from across the UC system in Santa Fe, New Mexico, for the first annual “AI Science at Scale” summit. The summit was planned […]
Stanford lecturer says red light therapy has real science behind it — but not every device works
Red light therapy has become a fixture on social media, with influencers claiming it can improve skin, reduce pain and speed recovery. Rachele Pojednic, faculty at Stanford University and chief science officer at Restore Hyper Wellness, said the science behind it is more solid than many people assume.
Red Light Therapy - social media fad or real science?
Red light therapy has become a fixture on social media, with influencers claiming it can improve skin, reduce pain and speed recovery. Rachele Pojednic, faculty at Stanford University and chief science officer at Restore Hyper Wellness, said the science behind it is more solid than many people assume.
Chinese scientist faces probe after girl dies ‘after experimental gene therapy’
Shanghai Jiao Tong University says it is investigating after a report alleges the child died after receiving treatment from Qiu Zilong.
TV and streaming viewing picks for July 26, 2026: How to watch Yankees-Phillies
All Times Eastern Baseball Banana Ball World Tour Game 3, Wrigley Field, Chicago, IL Savannah Bananas vs. Firefighters — ESPN/ESPN Unlimited/Disney+, 4 p.m. Basketball Big3 Week 6, Toyota Center, Houston, TX DMV Trilogy vs. Miami 305/Houston Rig Hands vs. Dallas Power — CBS, 1 p.m. The Basketball Tournament Quarterfinals Alumni Semifinal, Memorial Coliseum, University of…
Nasa boss from Hitchin praises rise of women in science
Dr Nicola Fox says she was one of four women on her science course at university in the 1991.
How Chinese scientists created an alloy that can survive 2,400 degrees Celsius
The tantalum alloy developed at Xian Jiaotong University could be used in aerospace, hypersonic vehicles and nuclear reactors.
Fort Smith Metro News Briefs: Physician, business award nominations sought, FSPD detectives recognized
Following are recent news brief items from the Fort Smith metro. Business Awards The University of Arkansas at Fort Smith Center for Economic Development (CED) and Jim Walcott Family Enterprise...
U of A researchers lament 'explicit politicization of science' under Trump
Former and current researchers at the University of Arizona are somewhat divided on whether UA administrators are doing enough to push back against the Trump administration’s cutting of federal research
Trump’s $200 Billion Research Reset Funds Scientists, Not University Systems
By removing university bureaucracies from their role as middlemen, this new approach to funding will speed up scientific research.
Employ-A-Bull: Student dives into seagrass research internship
University of South Florida
Hospital, local officials support WVU Health System takeover of Independence Health
Danielle Yackovich had a simple message for state regulators who will have the final say over the proposed takeover of Independence Health System by West Virginia University Health System. “When we talk about an investment of this magnitude, we need to ask the simple question: What will it mean for
"Stranger Things" Meets the Wrestling Ring in Utica
Fans of the Netflix series "Stranger Things" and professional wrestling will get a unique experience when actor Randy Havens makes an appearance at the Utica University Nexus Center.
University of California partners with U.S. Department of Energy to advance energy, discovery and national security through Genesis Mission
UC scientists at seven campuses and three national labs lead 15 percent of DOE-funded projects.
Independence Health, West Virginia University Health System merger draws support at public hearing
Inspiration for film ‘Safety’ is tourney’s special guest
VOLUNTEERS OF AMERICA COLORADO Denver News: Ray McElrathbey, a former Clemson University football player whose story of fighting to keep his brother out of foster care inspired the Disney+ movie “Safety,” will be the special guest when Volunteers of America Colorado hosts its 23rd Legends Golf Tournament. The Sept. 9 event will be held at Sanctuary, 7549 Daniels Park Road, […]
Economist Bhaven Sampat joins Johns Hopkins faculty
Sampat, who is interested in how science policy may solve public problems and improve social outcomes, is now the university's Bloomberg Distinguished Professor of Science and Innovation Policy
Saint Leo University merges business and technology colleges as AI reshapes workforce
The Pasco County university is merging two colleges as employers increasingly seek graduates with both technical and business expertise.
Stony Brook University Researchers Chosen for Landmark DOE Genesis Mission AI-for-Science Awards
More than $2.4M will support collaborations with Brookhaven National Lab and other institutions to address complex science and technology challenges Researchers at the State University of New York at Stony Brook (Stony Brook University) secured five inaugural awards through the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Genesis Mission, a national AI-for-science initiative designed to accelerate scientific
Saint Louis University relaunches geospatial initiative with bold mission
Faculty and students will come together to address societal challenges using Geo A-I, quantum sensing technologies, geospatial sciences, and more
UW Professor Releases New Edition of Teaching Book for New Engineering
Steven Barrett, a University of Wyoming professor of electrical and computer engineering, has released a new edition of his book “A Little Book on Teaching: A Beginner’s Guide for Educators of Enginee
NIH Renews Prestigious Training Grant for NC State Ph.D. Students Preparing to Lead Complex Research Teams
The National Institutes of Health has approved a $2.5 million grant for the NC State College of Veterinary Medicine to continue the work of its Comparative Molecular Medicine Training Program, which awards fellowships to Ph.D. students in NC State University’s Comparative Medicine Institute. Since NIH first funded the program in 2021, more than 20 students…
FNB names retail manager, small business lender
FNB Oxford Bank announced the appointment of Austin Vardaman as Oxford Regional Retail Manager and Jacob Marker as Consumer and Small Business Lender. Austin Vardaman graduated from the University of […]
Lynchburg Announces Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2026
The University of Lynchburg athletic department is thrilled to reveal the class of 2026 inductees into the Lynchburg Sports Hall of Fame on Thursday, October 15 at 5 p.m. in Turner Gymnasium.
Rice materials science triumphs with pair of Telly Awards
Rice is a double winner in the 47th annual Telly Awards, which honor excellence in video and television. The university won a silver Telly in the Education and Discovery category for a social media series titled “Discovering Materials Science and Engineering: Engineering Solutions for a Changing World,” which followed freshmen as they were introduced to how materials shape the world in a materials science and nanoengineering course of the same name. Additionally, Rice won a bronze Telly in the Educational Institution category for a nonbroadcast campaign titled “RAMI Undergraduate Research Fellows at Rice University,” which showcases cutting-edge undergraduate research.
Northern Michigan University banks on new business school, housing to help boost enrollment
The university in Marquette is undertaking several initiatives to help reverse a decade-plus enrollment slide.
Pacific Pulse: Dr. Jan Prins, author of 'Biomechanics: The science behind the strokes'
Dr. Jan Prins is a member of the faculty at the University of Hawaii, where he directs the Aquatic Research Laboratory. He was also the swimming coach
Small Wars Journal–El Centro Senior Fellow Designs Software with Computer Science Student to Fight Terrorism and Crime Networks
Small Wars Journal–El Centro Senior Fellow co-authored a software plugin with Sam Houston State University computer science student Braell Dotson that will help law enforcement fight criminal networks. The software is a program for the well-known social network analysis (SNA) software Gephi. Gephi is a free open-source software that law enforcement analysts are trained on to better target criminal … Read more
Corporation aims to boost MSU sports revenue. Should it operate in secret?
MSU’s secrecy around Spartan Media Ventures, a new for-profit corporation formed to raise money for sports programs, has some concerned — including members of the university’s own Board of Trustees.
Racer Entertainment Village: Murray State’s plan for a new athletics and entertainment district
MURRAY, KY -- Murray State is taking the first steps toward developing a new athletics and entertainment district that university leaders believe could create new opportunities for the athletic department,
ISU’s Scott College of Business SHRM chapter earns award
TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — The Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) awarded a 2025-2026 Superior Merit Award designation to Indiana State University’s SHRM student chapter. The SHRM Stude...
Wilmington announces business and economic development chief
The city of Wilmington announced on Thursday the hiring of Louis Starks as its new business and economic development manager. According to a news release, the role focuses on strengthening Wilmington's business ecosystem, supporting entrepreneurship and advancing strategic economic growth. "In this role, Starks will collaborate with residents, local businesses, community groups, educational institutions and regional partners to promote investment, workforce development, and innovation for businesses of all sizes," the release stated. "He will also help connect small businesses with City procurement opportunities, cultivate public-private partnerships, and lead initiatives that promote long-term economic vitality." Starks has more than 20 years of experience in economic development, urban planning, housing finance, workforce development and public policy, according to the release. Most recently, he served as manager of business development for Oakland County, Michigan, "where he led teams focused on business retention and expansion and financial services for one of the nation's most economically diverse regions. During his tenure, his teams supported billions of dollars in business investment initiatives while helping create thousands of jobs," the release stated. He holds a law degree and master's degree in urban and regional planning from the University of Iowa, as well as a bachelor's degree from Duke University. He is also a Certified Economic Development Professional. Starks is expected to begin his Wilmington position on July 27. “Louis has built his career around helping individuals, organizations and communities reach their full potential,” stated city manager Becky Hawke in the release. “Whether supporting entrepreneurs, managing complex redevelopment projects, or bringing together public and private partners, he has consistently focused on creating opportunity and delivering results. He understands that a strong economy creates opportunities for everyone. By supporting local businesses and fostering innovation, his work will help ensure the benefits of Wilmington’s growth are felt throughout the community, creating jobs, strengthening neighborhoods, and improving quality of life for residents.”
Ohio State researchers to lead national teams exploring science, AI innovation
The Ohio State University continues to build momentum as a national leader in artificial intelligence research and innovation. This week, two teams led by Ohio State researchers joined a $293 million initiative sponsored by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to harness AI for breakthroughs in energy dominance, discovery science and national sec...
Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes’s Daughter Suri, 20, Is Following in Parents’ Footsteps With Big Career Move
Suri is currently in her sophomore year at Carnegie Mellon University.
Four ECU Health nurse practitioners graduate from inaugural Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioners program class
Four ECU Health team members are among the first graduates from East Carolina University School of Nursing's Adult Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner program.
Wright State University and Premier Health Nursing Academy expands affordable pathway to nursing careers amid growing demand
Financial support, paid clinical experience and a direct connection to Premier Health are helping Wright State nursing students graduate with less debt while building a stronger local healthcare workforce. Continue reading →
NSF will support effort to build “self-driving” chemistry laboratories - College of Arts and Sciences
NC State University, UNC-Chapel Hill and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) will work together as part of a new National Science Foundation-funded effort to establish a nationwide network of artificial-intelligence-enabled automated laboratories across the United States.
RSU professors develop AI-powered business simulator
Rogers State University professors developed an AI-enabled platform to assist students with leadership development, critical thinking, decision making and organ
UT Secures $20M NSF Grant To Pioneer Breakthroughs in Automated Materials Discovery
The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, has secured $20 million from the National Science Foundation to accelerate breakthroughs in automated materials.
Can Business and Government Work Together to Build America Out of Its Housing Crisis?
The latest news from the University of Virginia Darden School of Business
When It Comes to Fusion, Materials Matter
Fusion at high temperatures powers the sun and, if harnessed, could provide a potential source of energy here on Earth. But controlling fusion reactions has other benefits. The process also generates subatomic particles called neutrons that are used in a range of applications spanning medicine, research, and national security. Now, scientists at the University of California, Davis (UC Davis), and the Department of Energy’s Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (Berkeley Lab) have found that the materials surrounding a fusion reaction can dramatically increase how often it occurs, particularly at low energies where fusion is rare. The study was published July 18 in Nature Communications. Their approach sets up a way to study and engineer nuclear reactions within solid materials, opening a new field of “materials-driven fusion.” Instead of designing materials just to survive the harsh conditions of fusion, researchers might be able to design materials that boost the reaction in specific conditions, similar to the way catalysts speed up chemical processes. “It gives you a new knob to turn that you didn’t have before,” said Arun Persaud, head of the Fusion Science & Ion Beam Technology group in Berkeley Lab’s Accelerator Technology & Applied Physics (ATAP) Division. “If we understand this effect better, it opens the door to engineering new materials that would affect the fusion rate under certain conditions. Someday future progress might enable more compact and efficient neutron generators, which have all kinds of applications, like cargo screening, planetary science, and medical therapy and imaging.” In the experiment, researchers used two different methods to pack deuterium, a heavy form of hydrogen atoms that is often used in fusion, into thin foils of palladium and titanium. They then fired a beam of deuterium ions at the foils at different energies and measured how often fusion happened. Then they compared the rates from the different materials and methods with the “bare” fusion reaction (not in a material). The team found that fusion rates depended on how the deuterium was loaded into the metal foils. The biggest effect was at the lowest energies, below 2.5 kiloelectronvolts (keV), where theory predicts fusion rates drop off sharply. Instead, researchers found a surprising plateau: Some samples showed elevated fusion rates roughly a quintillion times higher than bare fusion reactions. (A quintillion is a 1 followed by 18 zeroes.) Researchers are not exactly sure why that’s happening, though they have some ideas and ways to test them. The electrons and defects within the material might partially shield repulsive electrostatic forces between deuterium nuclei, making it easier for them to get close together and fuse. Tuning the electronic structure, defects, and composition of materials could help make nuclear reactions happen more readily. “It comes down to better understanding the mechanism so that we can try to enhance it,” said corresponding author Jeremy Munday, a professor at UC Davis. “We’ve seen that we can increase fusion rates, but what is the limit? Can we bring it to lower temperatures or energies? There’s obviously a lot of interest and excitement about fusion, so if there’s something we can learn about the physics at these lower energy scales, maybe there’s something we can translate to other areas of nuclear science.” The team plans to explore a wider range of materials and continue probing the unexpected fusion plateau at lower energies. Their work establishes a reproducible experimental platform to study how solid materials influence nuclear reactions, creating a new area of research that links fusion science with materials science and chemistry. “The work shows conclusively that the material environment where fusion occurs at low temperatures is an active participant rather than a passive container,” said Cameron Geddes, director of ATAP. “That adds a new dimension to fusion research.” This work was funded by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E). ### Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (Berkeley Lab) is committed to groundbreaking research focused on discovery science and solutions for abundant and reliable energy supplies. The lab’s expertise spans materials, chemistry, physics, biology, earth and environmental science, mathematics, and computing. Researchers from around the world rely on the lab’s world-class scientific facilities for their own pioneering research. Founded in 1931 on the belief that the biggest problems are best addressed by teams, Berkeley Lab and its scientists have been recognized with 17 Nobel Prizes. Berkeley Lab is a multiprogram national laboratory managed by the University of California for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Science. DOE’s Office of Science is the single largest supporter of basic research in the physical sciences in the United States, and is working to address some of the most pressing challenges of our time. For more information, please visit energy.gov/science.
Yu Deng Predicts the Actions of the Whole From Its Tiniest Parts
Dr. Deng, a mathematics professor at the University of Chicago, received a Fields Medal for his work on an equation describing fluid mechanics.
White House Science Report Calls For Reducing University Research Funding
A White House report calls for reduced funding for universities and argues that the government should re-allocate much of the money to the “individual scientist” instead.
Landmark Aging Study by UT Health Sciences Researcher Published in Nature
A University of Tennessee Health Sciences researcher has published findings that could reshape how medicine approaches aging, longevity and late-life health, including the prospect of personalized interventions that keep people healthier longer.
OSU’s Chet Udell builds instruments that measure the environment and bring science to life
This Thursday at Oregon State University’s Hatfield Marine Science Center in Newport, a one-of-a-kind live performance will blend marine science, original music, and custom-built instruments into an immersive experience.
Cow visit brings food science lessons to life for Rice summer campers
Nearly 30 fourth and fifth grade students got a firsthand look at where milk comes from July 16 when a dairy cow named Luna visited Rice University as part of the Center for STEM Engagement’s new C.H.E.F. Lab (Creating Hands-on Experiments in Food Science).