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MSU Plans to Expand Business Offerings on Campus. Will it Have an Impact on Downtown East Lansing?
While MSU scrapped major components of its initial Spartan Gateway project proposal, the university still plans to add retail businesses, restaurants and more to campus.
NMSU College of Business, Studio G collaboration strengthens entrepreneurial mindset education
New Mexico State University’s College of Business is strengthening how students learn entrepreneurship through a growing collaboration with Arrowhead Center’s Studio G, bringing hands-on workshops...
Morehead State names Dr. Steve Fenster as dean of College of Science & Engineering
An academic leader with a track record of over 20 years of student success in the sciences will now take on a key role at Morehead State University. Dr. Steve Fenster, dean of the School of Arts and Sciences at Fort Lewis College in Durango, Colorado, will serve as the next dean of the College of Science & Engineering at MSU, succeeding Dr. Ahmad Zargari, who will retire on June 30. To learn more about programs in MSU’s College of Science & Engineering, email dsci@moreheadstate.edu or call 606-783-2626.
How to turn a passion for photography into a successful business
Ashley Gonzalez, a business management major at the University of Memphis, shows how you can turn pain into profit. A love for photography has led Gonzalez to start a business to honor her father's legacy and create safe spaces for others.
Health officials confirm measles case, exposure sites in Monroe County
Growing Smarter: PVAMU study explores science behind stronger plants
PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas (Apr. 2, 2026) — From backyard gardens to large-scale farms, how plants grow can make all the difference. A Prairie View A&M University researcher is taking a closer look at that process and how it could help crops become more productive and resilient. Dr. Tesfamichael Kebrom, a research scientist in the College […]
Univ. of New Haven proposes new business school building in West Haven
The University of New Haven has filed plans to construct a new 50,000-square-foot business school building in West Haven.
Learn about the Master of Science in Data Science for fall 2026 | CWRU Newsroom | Case Western Reserve University
Case School of Engineering’s new Master of Science in Data Science program will equip students with advanced skills in data science, artificial inte...
SRU hosting three cybersecurity events with expert presenters
A series of collaborative events on the topic of cybersecurity, featuring top forward-thinking industry experts, is happening at Slippery Rock University in April. SRU’s Center…
Potatoes on the moon? Oregon State University scientists show it could work
Researchers grew potatoes in soil that mimics the powdery sediment on the moon's service. With just a little added compost, the plants produced a decent haul of potatoes.
Sharing her passion for science
By Danielle Rush Communications Specialist, Indiana University Kokomo Hisako Masuda, Indiana University Kokomo professor of biochemistry, was honored by the Indiana Academy of Science (IAS) as its 2026 Distinguished Scholar. The award is given to an individual who is recognized by the IAS as having an exceptional record of scholarship. Recipients are selected from nominations submitted to its awards committee. “I was surprised,” said Masuda, who joined IU Kokomo’s faculty in 2013. “I feel there are many good scientists in the Academy, so I wasn’t expecting it at all.” Patrick Motl, dean of the School of Sciences, said the Academy recognizes up to one member per year, and that Masuda is the second or third IU Kokomo faculty member to receive the commendation. “Clearly this speaks to the strength of Dr. Masuda’s accomplishments in research and scholarship and that her work stands out amongst her peers in Indiana,” said Motl, who received the award in 2019. “Many of the institutions that participate in the IAS are undergraduate institutions or primarily undergraduate institutions, but even having that caveat, Dr. Masuda has built and maintains a very active research program in her lab, working exclusively with undergraduates. She is passionate about science and can share that passion with her students. To carry on a quality research program with so many students involved in so many projects is truly remarkable and I am glad that the IAS acknowledged that for Dr. Masuda.” The IAS specifically commended her for involving more than 50 undergraduates in her research in bacterial metabolism, genomics, and their phenotypic plasticity at IU Kokomo, and publishing 23 articles with many student co-authors. Masuda’s current work primarily focuses on biodegradation and chemical repurposing of nylon. Using soil bacteria, her lab studies bacterial biodegradation of nylon and other environmental pollutants. She applies principles of green chemistry while developing a method to convert nylon waste into other nontoxic polymers. In collaborative work with health scientists, her lab investigates gut microbiomes of Indiana native birds as well as human subjects in a clinical study. She became interested in converting plastic waste while earning her Ph.D. at Rutgers University, working on methods to remove environmental waste not using chemicals or other intrusive methods. She learned about Nylon 11, which is used in pipes for transferring oil, interior components for cars, catheters, and in other industrial hard plastics. Nylon 11 is nontoxic, she added, so it is safe to include students in the research. “Those are considered to be nonbiodegradable, and have to go to a landfill,” she said. “I thought if we could come up with a way to biodegrade it, that would make some kind of impact.” Eventually, she wants to develop a product that would convert nylon waste to something useful, and to reduce waste and microplastics in the environment. “That would be my goal at some point, that we can make that change, and also make people more aware of their use of plastics,” she said. “I hope students stop to think about what we can do as scientists to address issues currently impacting us.” She appreciates the IAS for its support of scientific research at Indiana institutions, and IU Kokomo and the School of Sciences for providing funding for students to attend the Academy’s annual meeting. She added that IU Kokomo has also supported her research with funding from the School of Sciences and Academic Affairs. “Without that, I couldn’t do my research,” she said. Masuda has also earned a Senior Research Grant from the IAS, IU Kokomo’s Distinguished Research Award, and the IU Kokomo Junior Faculty Annual Research Award. She is a Fellow of the Indiana Academy of Science. Education is KEY at Indiana University Kokomo.
Former Wisconsin football player, who left the sport amid mental health struggles, dead at 24
Former Wisconsin football player Jack Pugh, who walked away from college football due to mental health struggles, has died, the university announced Tuesday. He was 24.
Health officials flag several University of Utah areas for possible measles exposure
Several areas on the University of Utah campus have been singled out for possible measles exposure as cases continue to rise across the state.In an update post
UNM to host national leader in sports medicine for community lecture on concussions
The University of New Mexico Department of Neurology will host a community lecture featuring Dr. Brian Hainline on Tuesday, April 15 from 6 to 8 p.m., at the Physics and Astronomy Interdisciplinary Science (PAIS) Auditorium on the Albuquerque...
MHA Team Wins Prestigious Case Competition | Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
MHA students Hallie Smith, Delaney Brooks, and Beth Bleil earned first place at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Health Administration Case Competition, the most prestigious health care administration competitions in the country.
Opinion: Dance to data science to Shakespeare
Artificial intelligence brought a seismic shift to the technological landscape, and the University of Minnesota is a microcosm of the global scale. From interpreting large quantities of data collected by...
UC names Suzanne Judd, PhD, as inaugural director of new Center for Public Health
Following an extensive national search, the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine has appointed Suzanne E. Judd, PhD, as the inaugural director of its newly established Center for Public Health. Judd, a renowned epidemiologist and interdisciplinary scholar, will lead the center’s mission to transform community health through innovative research, education and strategic advocacy.
Researchers lead push for health innovation at NextGen Pathways Symposium
Missouri S&T researchers joined colleagues from across the University of Missouri System at the Havener Center March 12-13 to share the latest developments from projects that could improve health outcomes for the state and beyond.
March Madness: Chicago-area sports bars preparing for Illinois-UConn Final Four game
The success of the University of Illinois Fighting Illini so far in the March Madness tournament has provided a lot of excitement for people in the Chicago area, but especially for sports bars that are owned by Illinois alumni.
Pepperdine University Hosts Thomas Vozzo, Former CEO of Homeboy Industries, for a Lecture on Faith and Business
Pepperdine University’s Faith and Business Initiative hosted Thomas Vozzo, the former CEO and current senior advisor of Homeboy Industries, for a lecture on faith, service, and lessons learned as a C-suite executive in both the for-profit and nonprofit sectors.
From classroom to Capitol Hill, UF students help shape health policy
On any given day in the halls of Congress, Ryan Athay may meet with health advocates, research complex policy issues or help write legislation that could impact millions of lives. For Athay, a Master of Public Health student in the University of Florida College of Public Health and Health Professions, the experience is more than a line on a resume. It’s a front-row seat to policymaking in real time.
Jack Pugh, former Wisconsin football star who left the sport to focus on his mental health, dies at 24
The former University of Wisconsin tight end was once a heavily coveted recruit, receiving offers from more than a dozen universities in 2020.
Demand for business degrees surges at UMaine, filling incoming class early
Demand for business degrees at the University of Maine is surging, with the Maine Business School nearing capacity for its incoming class weeks before the May 1 enrollment deadline. The school will cap enrollment at 330 first-year students this fall, and nearly half of those spots were already filled before…
FactCheck.org Nominated for 30th Annual Webby Awards in News & Politics | The Annenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania
FactCheck.org has been nominated in the 30th Annual Webby Awards for best news and politics website or mobile site.
Sailing for Science: A 50-Day Mission to Study the Southern Ocean
Emmanuel Boss, Ph.D., University of Maine
Former Wisconsin football player, who left the sport amid mental health struggles, dead at 24
Former Wisconsin Badgers tight end Jack Pugh has died at 24, the university confirmed. Pugh had stepped away from football in 2023 citing mental health struggles.
TROY SBDC builds partnerships and offers resources for Butler County small businesses
Following National SBDC Day, Troy University hosted a community-focused meeting in Georgiana to continue building partnerships and increasing awareness of resources available to small business owners across Butler County.
Athlete Health & Performance Symposium Champions Student Research, Collaboration and Innovation - University of Utah Athletics
The College of Health and University of Utah Athletics are partnering for the fourth year in a row to hold the Athlete Health & Performance Symposium , April...
Eureka! Scientists develop new way to detect breakthroughs in science
The history of science and technology is marked by major breakthroughs — the theory of evolution, the splitting of the atom, the development of antibiotics — and a research team including faculty at Binghamton University, State University of New York, has developed a method to help pinpoint discoveries that reshaped the course of science. A study publishing in Science Advances on April 1 maps the landscape of innovation to identify disruptive studies and patents that challenge existing paradigms and inspire waves of follow-up research. The measure was developed by a team including Sadamori Kojaku, assistant professor of systems science and industrial engineering at Binghamton University, along with his colleagues Munjung Kim and Yong-Yeol Ahn at the University of Virginia.
Student entrepreneurs compete for $67,500 at annual Business Plan Competition
$67,500 is at stake in the The University of Miami Herbert Business Schools’ annual Business Plan Competition. For 24 years, this experience has been a chance for students to gain real advice and mentorship, and pitch their business idea to a panel of experienced judges. Dr. Susan Amat, an associate professor of professional practice in
Pittsburgh health systems plan for increased care needs during NFL Draft
Allegheny Health Network and University of Pittsburgh Medical Center both say they are working with the NFL and city leaders to make sure visitors and residents will be able to access care when needed.
Patriot League Names Michael Blanar Director of Sport Administration and Policy
BETHLEHEM, Pa. – The Patriot League has announced the hiring of Michael Blanar as Director of Sport Administration and Policy. Blanar joins the League office staff after serving eight years as Assistant Director of Athletics Facilities and Equipment Operations at Loyola University Maryland.
Universities Become New Frontline in the US-Israel War Against Iran
Videos verified by CNN show research facilities reduced to rubble at the Iran University of Science and Technology in Tehran.
2025 Menino Survey of Mayors: Unlocking Housing Supply
New Survey Examines Mayors’ Views on Housing, Policy Solutions, and Political Constraints Mayors Increasingly Back Housing Supply, But Back Away From Policies That Would Enable It Democratic Mayors More Supportive of Supply-Focused Reforms Than Republicans A new report from the Menino Survey of Mayors, based at Boston University’s Initiative on Cities, finds that a large […]
UAH Earth System Science Center scientist selected as U.S. Drought Monitor author
A University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) scientist is stepping onto the national stage to help shape how the country understands and responds to drought. Jonathan Case, a principal research scientist for the Earth System Science Center at UAH, a part of The University of Alabama System, has been selected as one of two new NASA-affiliated authors for the U.
Webster University Bolsters iMBA Partnership with the University of El
Ryan Guffey, Executive Vice President of Webster International led a delegation to Chengdu to attend the 2026 Spring Alumni Annual Reunion of the international MBA (iMBA) program, a partnership betwee
Austin Christian University gets $50M for Christian business education
With $50M from an Nvidia exec and buy-in from a local megachurch, Austin Christian University wants to redefine the future of Christian business education.
Walkable Neighborhoods Can Boost Physical Activity, Population Health
New research from Washington State University shows that small increases in neighborhood walkability could lead to substantial gains for a sedentary population, boosting individuals’ physical activity and ultimately improving their health.
Comedian Trevor Wallace to Perform at UW April 3
Comedian Trevor Wallace will perform at the University of Wyoming’s Arts and Sciences auditorium Friday, April 3, during an event free and open to students and the Laramie community.
University of West Florida sports to make jump from DII to DI, according to report
PENSACOLA, Fla. -- University of West Florida athletics will be making the move from Division II to Division I, according to a report from Yahoo Sports.UWF will
Women’s Sports Thriving as UTRGV Athletics Continues to #RISEup
RIO GRANDE VALLEY – Success has a way of bringing people together, and the women's sports programs at The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) are giving the Valley something to rally behind.
Fighting Hawks Sports Partnerships to Launch Uniform Branding RFI on March 31
GRAND FORKS, N.D. – Fighting Hawks Sports Partnerships (FHSP), the sponsorship arm for University of North Dakota Athletics and the Ralph Engelstad Arena, will distribute a Request for Information (RFI) beginning Tuesday, March 31, as it explores potential uniform and apparel branding partnerships across UND Athletics programs.
Savannah State University opens new Stem E-Sports Lab
The grand opening is set for April 1 at 11:30 a.m. in Hubert Science and Technology Building A, room 104, on the SSU campus.
Sports injuries take mental toll on athletes, psychologists warn
Two college football players at Clemson University share their emotional journeys recovering from serious sports injuries.
Sports injuries take mental toll on athletes, psychologists warn
Two college football players at Clemson University share their emotional journeys recovering from serious sports injuries.
McPherson College and Barton School of Business at Wichita State Launch Accelerated MBA Pathway Partnership
Wichita State University’s W. Frank Barton School of Business and McPherson College have announced a new academic partnership that will allow eligible
University of Arizona warns fans about fake Final Four merchandise
Arizona is heading to its first Men's NCAA Tournament Final Four in 25 years, but fans are being warned to watch out for fake merch.
Qualified Health Raises $125M Series B to Meet Growing Demand for Enterprise AI Transformation Across Health Systems
Leading health systems including Mercy, Emory Healthcare, University of Rochester Medicine, Jefferson Health, and the University of Texas System are partnering with Qualified Health to deploy and scale AI safely across the enterprise. Palo Alto, California – March 25, 2026 — Qualified Health, a public benefit corporation providing a secure enterprise AI platform built for health […]
Ohio University, Anthem work to strengthen rural health care
The partnership aims to expand endowment funding, microgrants and increase experiential learning opportunities for students.
Lindsell named vice dean for data science and AI
Christopher Lindsell, PhD, has been appointed vice dean for data science and AI for Duke University School of Medicine, effective April 1, 2026.
Dessa on philosophy, creativity and science
University of Minnesota philosophy alumna Dessa blends musical styles and a full arsenal of singing, writing and speaking talents to frame her view of the world.
SFA business students, alumnus and associate professor earn awards at international management conference
NACOGDOCHES, Texas –– The Stephen F. Austin State University chapter of the Society for Advancement of Management received several awards at the SAM International Business Conference in March in East Greenwich, Rhode Island. In addition, Dr. Gina Harden, SAM faculty advisor and associate professor of management information systems in SFA’s Nelson Rusche College of Business, and SFA alumnus Corey Johnson ’17 and ’22, senior culture shaping specialist at Pilot Company, received prestigious national awards from SAM at the event.
Oregon CB confirms various pre-draft meetings with Raiders
A University of Oregon cornerback recently confirmed multiple pre-draft meetings with the Las Vegas Raiders.
Student launches culinary business with help from fellow Gorilla, SBDC
A Pittsburg State University student who dreams of owning her own business is getting support and mentorship from a two-time Pitt State graduate with a business of her own.
Barton outlines how politicians exploit voter information fatigue
Dona-Gene Barton, associate professor of political science at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, was interviewed for a March 26 HuffPost article on how politicians on both sides of the aisle have taken advantage of Americans’ shortened attention spans to sway public opinion in their favor.
Clear link discovered between chronic kidney disease and periodontal disease
Emerging evidence supports a relationship between chronic kidney disease and oral diseases, according to a recent review from University of Cincinnati College of Medicine researchers published in BMC Nephrology.
Business to receive $1 million in Federal funding to strengthen cross-border supply chains through program at University at Buffalo
Western New York businesses are set to receive a major boost thanks to $1 million in new federal funding aimed at improving cross-border supply chain operations and economic growth in the region. Acc...
USF doctoral student receives Guy Harvey Fellowship for marine science research
University of South Florida
Columbia University protester says year in ICE custody ‘destroyed’ her physical health
A 33-year-old Palestinian woman said she was “chained” to a hospital bed for three days after suffering from a seizure in ICE custody.
Management Students Explore the Business Ethics of Food in Italy
News from Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles. Our Newsroom highlights students, faculty, and staff who make LMU a brighter community.
Registration open for live webinars focused on employee health and well-being
Penn State Human Resources is offering free "Well-Being Week" webinars for University employees from April 6 to 10.
TROY Small Business Development Center director shares 'platform for doing business with the United States' at Inc. Festival
Troy University’s commitment to advancing entrepreneurship and economic opportunity across borders was recently represented on an international stage as Juliana Bolivar, Center Director of the Alabama Small Business Development Center Network at Troy University, participated as a speaker at INC Monterrey, one of Latin America’s leading gatherings focused on innovation, business development and economic growth.
Raiders set for business trip to Cincinnati Tuesday evening - Wright State University Athletics
DAYTON - The Wright State baseball team (11-13, 5-1 HL) will take a short business trip down to the Queen City Tuesday evening to face off against in-state r...
Scientists Discover Hidden Behavior in Water That Helps Explain Why Ice Floats
Water exists in two different liquid forms, which might be why it behaves differently than other substances.
Scientists Found a Second Critical Point Explaining Why Water Seems to Break All The Rules
Water is abundant but far from simple. A new discovery brings us closer to understanding its complex physics.
A Nurse Educator on Resilience, Patient Care and the Future of Health - Newsroom | University of St. Thomas
Faculty member Dr. Vane Gichana brings a blend of clinical judgment and critical thinking when she instructs nursing students at St. Thomas.
University of Pittsburgh commits $5 million to the city for parks, business districts and public safety
The University of Pittsburgh has committed $5 million over the next five years to support city parks, business corridor upgrades and public safety initiatives. The...
Cardiac Electrophysiology Expertise Now Offered at UAMS Health Family Medical Center in Fort Smith
LITTLE ROCK — The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) Health Heart Center now offers comprehensive cardiology services at the UAMS Health Family Medical Center in Fort Smith. The services are provided by cardiologists Subodh R. Devabhaktuni, M.D., Risheek Kaul, M.D., and Paul Mounsey, M.D., Ph.D. Cardiology services…
Close Up program gives Como student group insight into politics
Twenty high school seniors taking the University of Minnesota’s College in the Schools (CIS) government course at Como High School spent the first week of March in Washington, D.C., as...
Air Force and UCF partner to strengthen nuclear science research
Air Force Technical Applications Center collaborates with University of Central Florida to enhance research and workforce development in nuclear science.
Jan-Werner Müller named University Professor
Müller is a renowned scholar in democratic theory and the history of political thought. University Professorships are Princeton’s highest honor for faculty.
Lomo Meats: A local shop built on science and family roots
Samuel Garcia spent more than a decade building his expertise in meat science, working and teaching at the University of Arizona.
Panicking scientists, canceled experiments – federal funding cuts turned my work as a research dean into crisis management
When the Trump administration took aim at higher education and the scientific research enterprise, a university dean had to figure out on the fly how to support scientists and their work at his school.
UNC halts talks on future of basketball arena during coaching search
The university has been considering whether to renovate the Smith Center or build a new arena, possibly off the main campus.
FHSU’s next Science Café April 13
Fort Hays State University’s upcoming Science Café is set for Monday, April 13. This month’s presentation, “Eating Well, Living Well: Cultivating a Positive Relationship with Food,” is sponsored by FHSU’s Science and Mathematics Education Institute (SMEI) and will begin at 7 p.m. at The Venue in Thirsty’s Brew Pub & Grill, 2704 Vine.
Fourth Texas Area Planetary Science Meeting Returns in August 2026
The 4th Texas Area Planetary Science Meeting (TAPS) will be held on August 20–21, 2026, at the Commons Conference Center at The University of Texas at Austin.
Fulghum prepares for her next role after UNM — and passing the ADVANCE torch
Julia Fulghum has held a variety of positions at The University of New Mexico during her over 20-year tenure here. A professor in the Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, she has been a faculty member in two separate colleges. She served as an...
Pitt commits $5M in new investments to city parks, neighborhood business corridors and public safety
The University’s most recent commitment builds on decades of collaboration and support between the City of Pittsburgh and its premier anchor institution.
East Lansing Insider Podcast: Mental Health in College and East Lansing
Reporter Dustin DuFort Petty speaks with Michigan State University student Andelina Storm Grossi who recently published her first book, Sanity in the Storm: Faith, Healing, and Hope for the Anxious Soul.
Phonons in Focus
Phonon lasers are used to trap and levitate nanoparticles in the laboratory of Nick Vamivakas, the Marie C. Wilson and Joseph C. Wilson Professor of Optical Physics at the University of Rochester. https://www.doi.org/10.1038/s41467-026-70564-3
How a Civics School With a Conservative Bent Divided Its Supporters
A University of North Carolina program was intended to promote civil discourse and ideological diversity. Some of its early conservative supporters say it is doing the opposite.
AKC Canine Health Foundation Joins All Access hosted by Andy Garcia to Explore the Science of Veterinary Innovation
The AKC Canine Health Foundation (CHF) is excited to announce a collaboration with the educational program "All Access hosted by Andy Garcia" to develop a documentary segment centered on canine health research. Set to film on April 15, 2026, at the Foundation's headquarters and the North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine, the production will provide an objective look at how independent research improves the well-being of dogs, through highlighting CHF's pivotal role as a f
Light Science wins £300,000 university glasshouse contract
Light Science Technologies Holdings PLC (AIM:LST, FRA:9FD), the AIM-listed agricultural and fire safety technology group, has won a contract worth approximately £300,000 to refurbish a glasshouse at a university in Wales, with an additional annual maintenance package of £19,000 also...
German firms trapped between U.S. and China, study finds
German companies are so deeply tied to both the United States and China that they cannot decouple from either without severe economic costs, according to a study by the University of Sussex and King's College London seen by Reuters on Monday.
Blueprints for Pangaea gala highlights intersectionality of health care and business
More than 100 students and community members gathered for a gala hosted by the University of Michigan’s chapter of Blueprints for Pangaea.
Blueprints for Pangaea gala highlights intersectionality of health care and business
More than 100 students and community members gathered for a gala hosted by the University of Michigan’s chapter of Blueprints for Pangaea.
Michigan Music Business Club hosts fourth annual conference
The University of Michigan Music Business Club held its fourth annual Michigan Music Business Conference Saturday.
FIRST ON MS NOW: Pro-Palestinian protester discusses seizure in ICE custody: “my physical health is destroyed”
Leqaa Kordia, a Palestinian woman who was detained by ICE last March after participating in pro-Palestinian protests near Columbia University, was released this month after more than a year in custody. She joins The Weekend: Primetime for her first TV interview since her release to discuss her treatment and conditions inside a Texas ICE detention center.
Navigating the social media minefield
Scientists and researchers seeking to announce promising findings, exchange ideas or contribute to policy discussions outside of academic circles may find social media an expedient tool.But increasingly, scientists and other professionals are discovering that online platforms can be a double-edged sword: while sharing their work and expertise is crucial for visibility and meeting funder expectations, it also exposes them to baseless criticism and even accusations of spreading false information."It is getting harder and harder for scientists, and researchers in general, to convey their findings without facing attacks on their legitimacy and accuracy of their research," says Valère Ndior, a professor of public law at the University of Western Brittany in Brest, France, who has spent more than a decade studying misinformation on social media. Researchers attempting to challenge deceptive online information may themselves be accused of political bias or not being objective in their research, he explains, adding that some scientists disengage because they feel overwhelmed and unable to sustain meaningful dialogue. "It is quite sad to see in some instances that researchers end up leaving social media altogether because they feel like the pressure is getting too intense or feel threatened," he says.Ndior, a past president of the Francophone Network of International Law, is also involved in European efforts to make science and research findings more accessible to the public. As an ambassador for the Science Comes to Town (SCTT) project, he has participated in recent discussions on public perceptions of science and online misinformation. The European Commission-funded initiative connects Brest and two other cities — Kiel in Germany and Split in Croatia — and aims to strengthen ties between communities, universities and research institutions to promote science awareness and cooperation across Europe.Coordinated campaigns around contentious topicsNdior draws a clear distinction between critical thinking and thoughtless criticism. Yet he sees online discussions being increasingly shaped by suspicious behaviour and coordinated information campaigns — including "raids" aimed at dominating discussions and "astroturfing," where small groups act as larger movements to sway debates. Tracking these patterns has become harder because some platforms have restricted data or charge for it, despite provisions of the European Union's Digital Securities Act aimed at ensuring researchers can have access to such data. According to Ndior, "platforms became more reluctant from the moment access to data became a legal requirement rather than a voluntary initiative."Unfounded claims and scepticism about science existed long before Internet chat groups. But the noticeable rise in online hostility has intensified around contentious topics, such as the coronavirus pandemic and climate change, alongside the weakening of gatekeepers to moderate content.For Ndior, dubious claims about pandemic countermeasures and vaccine safety highlighted the struggle between "balancing freedom of expression and the protection of public health and order." Efforts to remove social media content deemed false or risky for public health triggered accusations of censorship and the silencing of legitimate discussion, and in some cases, legal challenges.Concerns about attacks on the credibility of scientists and researchers have generated a flurry of academic papers in recent years and prompted professional communities to address ways to counter online attacks. Such unease extends to the generation that has grown up with digital media. Ndior points out that his students, some of whom research artificial intelligence regulation, hate speech, online surveillance and other controversial topics, hesitate to share their work or viewpoints online. "Many of them don't want to expose themselves too much because they don't feel ready to be faced with the backlash of other people criticising their research," he explains.Safer harbours for engagementLegal challenges against false or defamatory posts are not necessarily a solution — especially given the trans-jurisdictional nature of the Internet. Lawsuits also take time and money, and if they fail, can be counterproductive. Instead, Ndior advises scientists and researchers to be selective in how and where they communicate. Professional online platforms and moderated discussion spaces offer a better environment for engagement. He also highlights the value of more traditional formats, such as radio interviews and in-person discussions at schools, libraries and science fairs, which encourage dialogue with the public. "Personal contact makes a big difference," he says, while acknowledging that these approaches lack the global reach of social media.Ndior’s interest in digital law and online misinformation stems from his time as a doctoral student in international law in the early days of social media. He began analysing posts from governments and heads of state to determine if they could be considered official and thus used as evidence in litigation. His work attracted media attention and led to conference and speaking invitations. "This was not part of my plan," he says, "but this is what happens as a researcher — your interest is sparked by a certain event or phenomenon, and it suddenly becomes your focus."Ndior believes SCTT provides "a double benefit" for researchers, enabling them to connect with peers and interact with the public. "There is a wide community of people who are not in academia who are critical thinkers looking for opportunities to ask questions, to get information and contribute their ideas,” he says. "I really value that kind of feedback."Science|Business, which connects policymakers, academics and industry through its news reporting, analysis and events, is an SCTT partner.
Navigating the social media minefield
Scientists and researchers seeking to announce promising findings, exchange ideas or contribute to policy discussions outside of academic circles may find social media an expedient tool.But increasingly, scientists and other professionals are discovering that online platforms can be a double-edged sword: while sharing their work and expertise is crucial for visibility and meeting funder expectations, it also exposes them to baseless criticism and even accusations of spreading false information."It is getting harder and harder for scientists, and researchers in general, to convey their findings without facing attacks on their legitimacy and accuracy of their research," says Valère Ndior, a professor of public law at the University of Western Brittany in Brest, France, who has spent more than a decade studying misinformation on social media. Researchers attempting to challenge deceptive online information may themselves be accused of political bias or not being objective in their research, he explains, adding that some scientists disengage because they feel overwhelmed and unable to sustain meaningful dialogue. "It is quite sad to see in some instances that researchers end up leaving social media altogether because they feel like the pressure is getting too intense or feel threatened," he says.Ndior, a past president of the Francophone Network of International Law, is also involved in European efforts to make science and research findings more accessible to the public. As an ambassador for the Science Comes to Town (SCTT) project, he has participated in recent discussions on public perceptions of science and online misinformation. The European Commission-funded initiative connects Brest and two other cities — Kiel in Germany and Split in Croatia — and aims to strengthen ties between communities, universities and research institutions to promote science awareness and cooperation across Europe.Coordinated campaigns around contentious topicsNdior draws a clear distinction between critical thinking and thoughtless criticism. Yet he sees online discussions being increasingly shaped by suspicious behaviour and coordinated information campaigns — including "raids" aimed at dominating discussions and "astroturfing," where small groups act as larger movements to sway debates. Tracking these patterns has become harder because some platforms have restricted data or charge for it, despite provisions of the European Union's Digital Securities Act aimed at ensuring researchers can have access to such data. According to Ndior, "platforms became more reluctant from the moment access to data became a legal requirement rather than a voluntary initiative."Unfounded claims and scepticism about science existed long before Internet chat groups. But the noticeable rise in online hostility has intensified around contentious topics, such as the coronavirus pandemic and climate change, alongside the weakening of gatekeepers to moderate content.For Ndior, dubious claims about pandemic countermeasures and vaccine safety highlighted the struggle between "balancing freedom of expression and the protection of public health and order." Efforts to remove social media content deemed false or risky for public health triggered accusations of censorship and the silencing of legitimate discussion, and in some cases, legal challenges.Concerns about attacks on the credibility of scientists and researchers have generated a flurry of academic papers in recent years and prompted professional communities to address ways to counter online attacks. Such unease extends to the generation that has grown up with digital media. Ndior points out that his students, some of whom research artificial intelligence regulation, hate speech, online surveillance and other controversial topics, hesitate to share their work or viewpoints online. "Many of them don't want to expose themselves too much because they don't feel ready to be faced with the backlash of other people criticising their research," he explains.Safer harbours for engagementLegal challenges against false or defamatory posts are not necessarily a solution — especially given the trans-jurisdictional nature of the Internet. Lawsuits also take time and money, and if they fail, can be counterproductive. Instead, Ndior advises scientists and researchers to be selective in how and where they communicate. Professional online platforms and moderated discussion spaces offer a better environment for engagement. He also highlights the value of more traditional formats, such as radio interviews and in-person discussions at schools, libraries and science fairs, which encourage dialogue with the public. "Personal contact makes a big difference," he says, while acknowledging that these approaches lack the global reach of social media.Ndior’s interest in digital law and online misinformation stems from his time as a doctoral student in international law in the early days of social media. He began analysing posts from governments and heads of state to determine if they could be considered official and thus used as evidence in litigation. His work attracted media attention and led to conference and speaking invitations. "This was not part of my plan," he says, "but this is what happens as a researcher — your interest is sparked by a certain event or phenomenon, and it suddenly becomes your focus."Ndior believes SCTT provides "a double benefit" for researchers, enabling them to connect with peers and interact with the public. "There is a wide community of people who are not in academia who are critical thinkers looking for opportunities to ask questions, to get information and contribute their ideas,” he says. "I really value that kind of feedback."Science|Business, which connects policymakers, academics and industry through its news reporting, analysis and events, is an SCTT partner.
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