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2026-2027 Audree V. Fowler Fellows in Protein Science
Graduate students Lenka Milojević (Zhou group), Akshaya Narayanasamy (Lindert group), Sarah Singleton (Conway group), and Janet Zhong (Feigon group) have been selected as 2026–27 Fowler Fellows and shared their research at a special event on Oct. 13, 2026. 2026-27 Fowler Fellows – Sarah Singleton, Lenka Milojević, Janet Zhong, and Akshaya Narayanasamy. Akshaya Narayanasamy and Prof. Steffen Lindert. Sarah Singleton and Prof. Stuart Conway. Janet Zhong and Prof. Juli Feigon. About the 2026-27 Audree Fowler Fellows in Protein Science Lenka Milojević is a fifth-year Biophysics Ph.D. candidate in the lab of Professor Z. Hong Zhou at UCLA. As an undergraduate at Maastricht University, she studied the structural basis of Mycobacterium tuberculosis virulence and amyloid-β fibril nucleation in the lab of Professor Peter Peters. She completed her bachelor’s thesis research at UCLA in the lab of Professor David Eisenberg, focusing on amyloid disaggregation, before beginning her doctoral studies. In the Zhou lab, Lenka uses cryo-electron tomography to visualize and characterize membrane-associated protein assemblies across a range of viral and cellular systems. Akshaya Narayanasamy is a fifth-year Ph.D. student in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at UCLA, mentored by Professor Steffen Lindert. She earned her B.S.-M.S. in Chemistry from the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Thiruvananthapuram, where she worked in Professor Mahesh Hariharan’s lab investigating how single-atom substitutions influence crystal packing and charge transport behavior. She received her M.S. in Physical Chemistry from The Ohio State University before moving with the Lindert lab to UCLA. At UCLA, Akshaya develops integrative modeling methods that combine deep learning and Rosetta with experimental data, such as ion mobility mass spectrometry and cryo-EM, to improve protein structure prediction. Her current work focuses on developing an experimentally guided diffusion model and designing de novo protein binders with potential antibacterial activity. Ultimately, she aims to bridge AI-based structure prediction and experimental data to make computational protein models more reliable for drug discovery and therapeutic design. Sarah Singleton is a 4th year BMSB student, working in Professor Stuart Conway’s lab. She earned her B.S. in Biochemistry at Simmon University (Fenway, MA). Her research is centered on drugging the previously undruggable class of proteins—transcription factors. Zinc finger (ZF)-containing transcription factor proteins typically contain multiple ZF motifs, but little is known about the principles that govern the recognition of multi-ZF arrays by immunomodulatory imide drugs (IMiDs). In a multi-ZF array that contains several potentially targetable ZFs, which will be accessible and why? How does the surrounding protein architecture inform IMiD recognition? Sarah’s research aims to utilize her findings on the fundamental principles of ZF recognition to design IMiD therapeutics for transcription factors involved in health and disease. Janet Zhong is a fourth-year BMSB student, working in Professor Juli Feigon’s laboratory. She received her BSc and MRes from Imperial College London. At UCLA, Janet combines cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) and biochemical approaches to investigate how proteins and RNAs assemble into ribonucleoprotein structures. Her research focuses on telomerase, the enzyme that maintains chromosome ends, with interests in its structure, assembly, and mechanisms. She has also worked on capturing the cryo-EM structure of a small bacterial non-coding RNA called raiA motif RNA. About Dr. Audree Fowler A strong supporter of the basic sciences and medicine at UCLA, alumna Dr. Audree Fowler (B.S. ’56 chemistry, Ph.D. ’63 biochemistry) established the Audree V. Fowler Fellows in Protein Science in 2008. Fowler was Director UCLA Protein Microsequencing Facility from 1984-1999 and is a Researcher Emeritus of the UCLA Department of Biological Chemistry. She is one of the first four women to receive a Ph.D. from the UCLA Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry. In 2018, the women were awarded the department’s 2018 Alumni Legacy Awards in recognition of their achievements in life, and generous support and service to UCLA. “The sciences gave me a great life. Now I want to help others have access to the same opportunities I enjoyed,” Fowler explained when she established the Fowler Fellowships endowment. Applications for the fellowships are solicited from graduate students in the Molecular Biology Interdepartmental (MBI) Ph.D. Program, Biological Chemistry, and Chemistry & Biochemistry Departments. In addition to presenting their research at a special seminar, the recipients each receive a $5,000 award. Previous Fowler Fellows from the UCLA Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry 2025-26 – Nikki Cheung (Clubb Group), Jonathan Jih (Zhou Group), Eileen Olivares (Loo Group), and Lily Taylor (Rodriguez Group) 2024-25 – Andrew Goring (Clubb lab), Eric Pang (S. Clarke and Rodriguez labs), and Miranda Villanueva (Backus lab) 2023-24 – Alexandra Turmon (Backus lab), Cindy Wang (S. Clarke and C. Clarke labs) 2022-23 – Cody Gillman (Gonen lab), Declan Evans (Houk lab), Troy Lowe (S. Clarke lab), Ashley Julio (Backus lab), and Alex Stevens (Hong Zhou lab) 2021-22 – Weixian Deng (Wohlschlegel/Plath labs), Yi Xiao “Sean” Jiang (Eisenberg lab), Maria Flores (Rodriguez lab), Carter Lantz (Loo lab), and Logan Richards (Rodriguez lab). 2020-21 – Janine Fu (Loo lab), Calina Glynn (Rodriguez lab), and Jiahui Lu (Eisenberg lab) 2019-20 – David Boyer (Eisenberg lab), Orlando Martinez (Clubb lab) and John Muroski (Loo lab) 2018-19 – Scott McConnell (Clubb lab), Kevin Murray (Eisenberg lab), Rebeccah Warmack (S. Clarke lab) 2017-18 – Michael Hughes (Eisenberg lab), Yuxi Liu (Yeates lab), Kanishk Jain (S. Clarke lab) 2016-17 – Brendan Amer (Clubb Lab) and Jeff Vinokur (Bowie Lab) 2015-16 – Henry Chan (Feigon lab), Smriti Sangwan (Eisenberg lab), Nicholas Woodall (Bowie lab) 2014-15 – Dan McNamara (Yeates lab) 2013-14 – Alex Jacobitz (Clubb lab), Alexander Patananan (S. Clarke lab), Carly Ferguson (Loo lab) 2012-13 – Letian Xie (C. Clarke lab), Anni Zhao (Eisenberg lab) 2011-12 – Timothy Anderson (Clubb lab), Soohong Kim (Weiss lab) 2010-11 – Zeynep Durer (Reiser lab), Cecilia Zurita-Lopez (S. Clarke lab) 2009-10 – Luki Goldschmidt (Eisenberg lab), Kristofer Webb (S. Clarke lab), Sheng Yin (Loo lab) 2008-09 – Nathan Joh (Bowie lab), Neil King (Yeates lab) Photos courtesy of Helen Houldsworth, the Molecular Biology Institute.
How Huntsville Small Businesses Can Partner With NASA To Land Humans On The Moon In 2028
In 2027, NASA plans to send four astronauts aboard its Orion spacecraft on a 14-day mission in low Earth orbit to test systems needed to return humans to the
Five Bills Questionable For Sunday's Game Against the Ravens
Buffalo faces a high-stakes roster shuffle as DJ Moore and Dalton Kincaid race to play, while a fresh injury to Greg Gaines adds last-minute defensive drama.
Phoebe Bridgers, My Chemical Romance and all your Halloween club needs
Halloween in Los Angeles is not just Gay Christmas — it's become a pretty exceptional weekend for music, with top touring acts planning blowout stands around the occasion.
Bucyrus business owner pleads guilty to role in obtaining nearly $900,000 in pandemic funds
BUCYRUS – A 56-year-old man has pleaded guilty in federal court to devising a scheme to obtain pandemic government stimulus funds meant to assist small businesses, which he instead used for his personal benefit, according to a press release issued Friday by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio. Jeffrey Skinner, […]
Bucyrus business owner pleads guilty to role in obtaining nearly $900,000 in pandemic funds
BUCYRUS – A 56-year-old man has pleaded guilty in federal court to devising a scheme to obtain pandemic government stimulus funds meant to assist small businesses, which he instead used for his personal benefit, according to a press release issued Friday by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio. Jeffrey Skinner, […]
New Report Examines Best Practices in Mobile Health Operations
The report examines common program models and services, operational challenges, and promising practices for developing, strengthening, and sustaining mobile health programs.
John Wallace named director of Penn State Regenerative Agriculture Center
John Wallace, associate professor of weed science in Penn State’s College of Agricultural Sciences, has been named director of the Penn State Regenerative Agriculture Center to help guide research and collaboration aimed at advancing regenerative farming practices across Pennsylvania.
President Donald Trump Viciously Snaps at Reporter Who Questioned His Health: ‘You Look Like Hell’
President Donald Trump appeared offended when a reporter questioned him about his health after he canceled a campaign rally. On Thursday, October 29, Trump, 80, spoke with reporters after returning to...
Diplo: 'There's a big generational shift' of young people prioritizing health
Diplo talks with CNBC about hosting five-kilometer races across the globe branded as “Diplo’s Run Club.” The Grammy Award winner says, "There's a big generational shift right now, with young people realizing that they want to spend their time working on themselves and their bodies."
WATCH: Rubio welcomes G20 foreign ministers to Atlanta at 'critical moment'
Secretary of State Marco Rubio pulled the plug on the traditional group photo after several European officials threatened to boycott or walk out of the snapshot that usually helps kick off such diplomatic gatherings.
AP Decision Notes: What to expect in Maryland on Election Day
WASHINGTON (AP) — Maryland Democratic Gov. Wes Moore seeks a second term on Tuesday as he stakes his political capital on a proposed constitutional amendment that would allow his party to enter the mi...
Norvell Sees Long-Term Potential in International Recruiting
Mike Norvell sees long-term potential in Florida State’s international recruiting efforts as Luke Francis Jr. and Nikau Hepi continue to develop.
Desert Fall Festival returns to Surprise with expanded attractions, live entertainment
Desert Fall Festival will return to Surprise from Sept. 25 through Nov. 1, bringing seasonal attractions, entertainment, food and beverages to the West Valley.
Central Valley golf cart business lands among nation's top 10 small businesses
Discover how Resort Life Carts grew from six used golf carts into a nationally recognized Central Valley business. Read about its rise to the top 10.
AIG to purchase Everest Chile unit, completes Colombia buy
American International Group on Friday said it has agreed to buy Everest Compañía de Seguros Generales Chile S.A., or Everest Chile, the Everest Group’s insurance subsidiary in Chile.
Your Weekly Michigan Political Brief
State Rep. Sean McCann (D-Kalamazoo), who is seeking to unseat U.S. Rep. Bill Huizenga in Michigan’s 4th Congressional District, has been endorsed by six former Republican members of Congress, including former U.S. Senator Gordon Humphrey (R-New Hampshire) and former U.S. Reps. Jim Greenwood (R-Pennsylvania), Claudine Schneider (R-Rhode Island), Chris Shays (R-Connecticut), Peter Smith (R-Vermont), and Steve […]
Latest Census Bureau data highlights health care struggles despite rising Maine incomes
At a glance: Between 2024-2025, household incomes in Maine generally rose faster than inflation and faster than the national average, but Mainers with the lowest incomes saw […]
Petlove And São Paulo Metro Take On Animal Cruelty With “Villains,” An Animated Series By Unboring Company That Trades Conventional Messaging For Entertainment
Petlove, Brazil’s largest pet ecosystem, exists to make the world a place where every pet can be happier and healthier.
CDC scientists sought urgent alert on measles in pregnancy. It wasn’t approved.
The report could fill major gaps about a condition doctors have rarely seen for decades.
CDC scientists sought urgent alert on measles in pregnancy. It wasn’t approved.
The report could fill major gaps about a condition doctors have rarely seen for decades.
Christ Hospital Health Network drops donations to elementary school
Twenty boxes were donated at William H. Taft Elementary
Robert Kelker-Kelly: 'Days of Our Lives' actor's official cause of death
Actor Robert Kelker-Kelly's official cause of death has been determined, weeks after the 'Days of Our Lives' star died at age 62.
EXCLUSIVE: Dismissing Geneva Mergers, Global Fund’s Dybul Wants To Focus On Country Capacity
Returning to lead the Global Fund, Mark Dybul argues that the future of global health lies with domestic health systems, not agency mergers in Geneva. Evoking the founding ambition of the early 2000s, the incoming Executive Director explains how the Accra Reset and US bilateral aid can align under unified national plans - and how his active ties to Washington can help navigate political fragmentation.
Declaring A Health Emergency Is A ‘Signal Of Failure, Not A Starting Point’
The World Health Organization (WHO) declared mpox a public health emergency of international concern (PHEIC), its highest alarm level, twice within two years,
Kevin Federline allegedly faces thousands of dollars in debt after Britney Spears’ child support payments ended
The former rapper has been sued by City National Bank and Bank of America this year.
“The View” dresses child as Donald Trump’s algae-infested Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool for Halloween
The talk show has a history of dressing children in absurd Halloween costumes, from one inspired by Will Smith’s Oscars slap to a Chinese spy balloon.
‘The View’ dresses child as Trump’s algae-infested Lincoln Memorial pool for Halloween
‘The View’ dressed children for Halloween as Donald Trump’s algae-infested Lincoln Memorial reflecting pool and the bird Kelly Clarkson wanted to buy at a Brooklyn store.
Medical malpractice insurance rates inch up amid mounting losses
Medical malpractice insurance rates increased an average of 1.8% at midyear 2026, little changed from the same period last year, according to a survey released this week.
Shopping for Nevada health coverage? Watch for misleading offers as enrollment opens
Nevada Health Link offers free enrollment help and warns against impersonator websites, pressure tactics and required add-on purchases.Nevadans comparing health
California's first sea turtle eggs could hatch any day now.
Federal biologists made a last-minute decision to relocate the eggs after forecasters predicted high tides would swamp their nests on Orange County beaches.
CHRISTMAS AT THE KRINGLES Hopes To Bring Seasonal Scream Laughs
The other day I went to my local Walgreens and was horrified to see the Halloween section split in half, with Christmas decorations already out. So it seems fitting that Christmas at the Kringles, the new holiday horror-comedy film from director Kevin Lewis (Willy’s Wonderland), is in theaters today.
'Crypt Jam': Unearthing the Crypt Keeper’s 1992 hip-hop hit
With the Crypt Keeper back to host AMC’s FearFest 2026, the Halloween season offers a reason to revisit “Crypt Jam,” his 1992 hip-hop deep cut.
GOP gambles on cruelty as a campaign strategy
As Donald Trump’s brand of politics is normalized across the GOP, not everyone is reaping the same benefits
WBEZ’s Weekly News Recap, Oct. 30, 2026: Election Day preview, new Bears stadium proposal revealed, and more
As Election Day nears, Gov. Pritzker invests millions of dollars in out-of-state candidates. Here in Illinois, U.S. Attorney Andrew Boutros sets up a hotline so voters can report possible fraud and voter intimidation.
Expert picks for Dolphins vs. Patriots in Week 8
The Miami Dolphins will take on the New England Patriots on Sunday at Hard Rock Stadium. Here's who experts believe will win this divisional matchup.
Ken Paxton's political rise, from the Tea Party to Trump's MAGA movement
Ken Paxton built a loyal conservative following long before Donald Trump entered politics. That support has helped him survive scandals, criminal charges and impeachment. Now he's counting on it to help him win a competitive U.S. Senate race.
The Bolsonaro clan is still strong in Brazilian politics despite Flávio's defeat and flight to U.S.
Flávio Bolsonaro has left Brazil for the United States after losing the presidential runoff
Pope Leo votes in US midterms in first known political ballot for any pontiff
US citizen Leo, who has clashed with Donald Trump over several issues, submitted his vote by post in Chicago
Red carpet to roulette wheel: The celebrity casino regulars of 2026
Dana White, CEO of Ultimate Fighting Championship at the Republican National Convention.
Sports’ Top Dealmakers on Stage at Sportico’s Invest New York
Steve Greenberg, Gregg Lemkau and Rob Tilliss will join New York Islanders co-owner Jon Ledecky for an inside look at the transactions, valuations and investment strategies reshaping the sports industry. As professional sports franchises command record valuations and institutional investors seek a greater foothold in the industry, the business of buying, selling and financing teams …
Norway turns to toilet humor after Trump bashes Scandinavian country
Norway has turned to a bit of toilet humor in response to U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent comments insulting the Scandinavian country and the Nobel Peace Prize.
An introspective Kirk Franklin is no longer apologizing with 'I Am What I Am' album
Kirk Franklin is back with his new album, "I Am What I Am," out Friday. His 14th studio project and first double album, 14 tracks are divided between contemporary music and traditional, live-recorded...
Hugging Face Launches ProtoStar to Tackle Science's Data Problem
There’s a lot of scientific data out there – and universities, government agencies, and research labs have spent decades collecting it. This includes everything from climate change to human biology. Much of it is publicly available. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean other researchers can easily use it. Sometimes, just getting the data into a usable […]
What’s in Your Vape Cart in 2026?
Recent studies showing heavy metal contamination in cannabis vape carts illustrate the need for additional testing and regulatory guidelines.
Top Science Democrat probes cuts to research spending at National Science Foundation
A key Democrat is looking into a massive amount of money that was appropriated to the National Science Foundation (NSF) but reportedly not spent. In a letter first shared with The Hill, House Commi…
NPR special: 5 takeaways from a year of listening to swing voters
Every election, there is a crucial sliver of voters who help determine which candidates win. Here are five takeaways from a year of listening to voters who backed Biden in 2020 and then Trump in 2024.
NPR special: 5 takeaways from a year of listening to swing voters
Every election, there is a crucial sliver of voters who help determine which candidates win. Here are five takeaways from a year of listening to voters who backed Biden in 2020 and then Trump in 2024.
5 Questions With: Kristen Fitzpatrick, Harvard Business School's Senior Managing Director Of Career & Professional Development
HBS’s Kristen Fitzpatrick explains how coaching, alumni connections, and AI help MBA students navigate today’s job market.
Is AI cannibalizing Google's search business?
In the Loop, Host Ejaaz Ahamadeen breaks down the market reaction to Alphabet's (GOOGL, GOOG) latest earnings and the growing concerns surrounding its core search business. Ahamadeen examines signs of slowing search revenue growth and how AI-powered search tools could be disrupting Google's traditional advertising model.
Community Investments: Corporate Engagement as Good Business
To strengthen communities, Alaska businesses contribute via donations, volunteerism, and partnerships.
Reproductive Rights Left on the Table: Senator Cappelletti Reflects on Unfinished Business as Legislative Session Concludes
Harrisburg – October 30, 2026 – The Pennsylvania Senate recessed last Wednesday, October 22, with only two additional session days scheduled through the end of the 2026-2027 legislative session. As the chamber recessed—currently controlled by Republicans—the Senate left hundreds of bills on the table, including several that would advance reproductive freedoms in the Commonwealth. Senator Amanda M. Cappelletti (D-17, Delaware/Montgomery) said many of these state-level protections are critical for Pennsylvanians as Republicans in Washington continue to dismantle the nation’s healthcare infrastructure. “Wrapping up this legislative session and looking ahead to next Tuesday, access to abortion care is at the very top of my mind. I’m deeply disturbed that the majority party in our chamber was once again unwilling to come to the table and move lifesaving legislation that would protect basic healthcare in Pennsylvania,” said Senator Cappelletti, who served as the Director of Policy for Planned Parenthood Pennsylvania Advocates prior to her time in the legislature. Senator Cappelletti has proposed several bills to address reproductive healthcare, and three proposals to protect abortion care were left on the table for the third session in a row since she introduced them. On November 30, 2026, all legislative proposals not signed into law […]
Which political party is better for your pocketbook?
Personal income grew 2.8% when Republicans controlled the White House vs. 3.1% when Democrats were in charge.
Cash flow management gets real-time data for lending
Cash flow management is moving into lending as Intuit uses real-time QuickBooks data to grow loans from $400 million to nearly $7 billion.
Louisville Metro Council eases massage business restrictions
Louisville Metro Council eased massage business rules after therapists said the ordinance hurt their work and drove professionals away.
Louisville Metro Council eases massage business restrictions
Louisville Metro Council eased massage business rules after therapists said the ordinance hurt their work and drove professionals away.
Broncos Listed As Trade Option For Colts RB Jonathan Taylor
ESPN insiders link Denver to the Indianapolis superstar as the trade deadline nears, potentially providing the offensive spark needed to secure a postseason run and transform their backfield.
Panthers Fire Multiple Coaches Following Loss to Packers
The Carolina Panthers reportedly fire defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero and Jonathan Cooley, naming Todd Wash interim DC after losing to the Packers.
Young students give new teachers infections; the daylight saving time debate; circadian depression; plus other stories with Vanderbilt Health sources
William Schaffner, MD, Professor of Preventive Medicine, was quoted by several news outlets about public health issues, including: Axios Nashville (flu season beginning early); Prevention (how long does norovirus last?); Education Week (how young students make new teachers sick). AAMC News posted a story about the debate about whether to eliminate the twice-yearly time change, and, if so, whether to permanently stay on standard or daylight time. Beth Malow, MD, director of the Vanderbilt Sleep Center, is quoted in the piece. A Men’s Health story on circadian depression, a type of depression caused by an out-of-synch internal clock in the brain, quotes Aaron Brinen, PsyD, Assistant Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences. Michael Lester, MD, Assistant Professor of Medicine, was quoted in a Medscape story about treating chronic bronchitis with bronchial rheoplasty. Shravani Durbhakula, MD, Associate Professor of Anesthesiology, was quoted in a CNN piece about the drug cychlorphine. Art Dalley, PhD, Professor of Cell and Developmental Biology, emeritus, was quoted in a story in The Guardian about anatomical donation. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society quoted Subramaniam Sriram, MBBS, Professor of Neurology and Director of the Vanderbilt Multiple Sclerosis Center, in a story on its website about the differences in brain and spinal cord lesions in MS. (Note: some links may require registration or subscription)
APEC Business Travel Card Validity Extended
To facilitate business travel within the Asia-Pacific region, China has extended the maximum permitted stay for APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) holders in China from 60 days to 90 days, effective November 1, 2026. The ABTC provides significant advantages for business travelers from participating Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation economies. With the ABTC, cardholders can travel freely between member countries without the need to obtain individual business visas for each trip, which greatly reduces the time, cost and administrative burden associated with frequent cross-border travel. Additionally, they benefit from expedited immigration processing, including access to special lanes at airports, although the level of convenience and border clearance infrastructure may differ depending on the country. The card is typically valid for five years, minimizing the need for frequent visa renewals. Furthermore, business travelers are vetted and pre-approved before the card is issued, ensuring smoother entry procedures upon arrival.
Rangers Prospects Have Big Day in Fall League Action
It was a day to remember for the Texas Rangers prospects who took the field in the Arizona Fall League for another Surprise Saguaros victory.
Trump will rally in Kansas and Iowa after initially canceling weekend trips before midterms
President Donald Trump has rescheduled campaign rallies in a pair of critical Midwestern states that he had previously canceled.
Kansas City has multiple marquee concerts in November. Here are 6 you can attend
Country and rock highlight Kansas City’s November concerts.
AP Decision Notes: What to expect in Pennsylvania on Election Day
In Pennsylvania, three races for U.S. House seats currently held by Republicans are being closely watched for their potential to turn blue. In those three key races, President Donald Trump
Politics
By the time you kindly readers get to partake of this column, the 2026 midterm election will have happened. As per usual, the campaigning by the candidates of both political parties, and their partisan supporters,...
Political Patronage Is a Public Administration Problem
The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of ASPA as an organization. By Jan Manuel Cubero JiménezOctober 30, 2026 Political patronage is often discussed as a hiring problem. It is also a public administration problem. The question is not only who gets a government job. It is […]
Arizona Cardinals Daily Links:
Can the Cardinals take advantage of a bad Cowboys defense to earn their third win?
Democrats could win up to 240 House seats on Tuesday, Cook Political Report says
Science Begins With Wonder and Sometimes With a Salamander.
The Bar Harbor Story is generously sponsored by the Don & Beth Straus Center at Birch Bay Village. BAR HARBOR—The children had come to see the axolotls, those odd little salamanders with pink frills around their heads and the remarkable ability to grow back what they lose. But also there were stickers. There were crafts. There was the kind of excitement that makes a roomful of kindergarteners forget, for a little while, that sitting still is ever a requirement. And then there were the animals themselves, alive in their clear cases at the MDI Biological Laboratory, where 12 children from Pemetic Elementary School got to meet the creatures they had been learning about in class. “Do you love them?” their teacher, Carol Null, asked. The answer came back in a chorus. “I do!” “I do!” “I do too,” Null said, smiling. “I love them even more now.” That was the thing about a day at the lab. Science was no longer a picture in a book, or a word on a classroom wall. It had a face, a tail, and a set of extraordinary powers. And for a child, sometimes that is where wonder begins. Sometimes learning about science is about stickers. Sometimes it’s about bright pink feathers and getting super excited about that glow in the dark. Sometimes learning about science is joy—pure and simple joy. That’s how it was October 28 at the MDI Bio Lab as Miss Hannah (known in the lab as Dr. Hannah Lust, director of STEM, undergraduate and graduate Training), other scientists, graduate students, and MDI Bio Lab staff, hosted 12 students from Carol Null’s Pemetic Elementary School’s kindergarten class. The 2.5-hour program created by Dr. Lust focused on axolotls, a species of mole salamanders, a superhero in the animal world: a superhero with some scientific-study worthy superpowers. One of those superpowers come from the axolotls’ ability to regenerate body parts, including entire limbs. But also, they’re cute. This fall, before coming to the internationally renowned lab nestled in Salsbury Cove, Null has been integrating axolotls into her class. They’ve been part of the kids’ vocabulary and their storytelling. They’ve been part of science. They’ve been part of the children’s learning about facts vs opinions. The Pemetic Elementary kindergarten students learn about invasive species and the impact on the ecology and one student related it to their dad, who lobsters, and his worries about green craps, an invasive species in Maine. “Are they bigger or smaller than you thought they’d be?” the children are asked after the scientists show them multiple see-through cases of axolotls, lined up on a table that they’re told not to jiggle. “Bigger!” “I think they’re bigger.” “Smaller!” The bio lab opening its doors to the collaborations and to students and families is a norm, but this is the first program of this kind. It’s meant to encourage kindergarten students about axolotls. But when the students come to the bio lab something else happens too—something beyond Null’s child-focused teaching—the students see science—and the regenerating creatures in real life. They do crafts. They speak with them. They meet people who know all about them: scientists and educators who talk to the kids like they’re equals. That’s a superhero power, too. Null speaks about meeting the kids where they’re at in her classroom, letting their interest and hearts lead her in their learning. That requires recognition of interests, of individuality, of empathy. Some would argue that’s a super power, too, but it’s also in those 12 students as they listen to the storybook, encounter those live axolotls, and hear about how axolotls might help advance society’s understanding of human health. As Eddie Seckeler (comparative animal models, CORE facility manager), carefully puts the axolotls on a cart and rolls them away, some of the children stop what they’re doing to watch. “Bye axolotls.” “Bye!” “Bye!” The axolotls are not just images in a book, Hello, I’m an axolotl by Hayley and John Rocco; they are real and cool. MDI Biological Laboratory scientists Dr. Prayag Murawala and Dr. James Godwin who both feature in the Roccos’ book. The kindergarteners get to meet them in real life, off the page, in the world, doing science. They learn from them, laugh with them. “The visit is about more than meeting an unusual animal. By introducing children to scientists working in their own community, the experience helps make science tangible and accessible. Students can see that science is not just something they read about in books or learn about at school. It is something real people do every day by asking questions, making observations and working to understand how the world works,” explains MDI Biological Laboratory Director of Communications Rebecca Woods. While the students make axolotl-related crafts around tables, graduate students and staff help out. Ryan holds up his construction paper setting and axolotl to show Omar Maged, a graduate student. “Do you like it?” Ryan asks, eyes wide, turning from his axolotl to look up at Omar. Omar studies the construction paper for a moment, smiles and says definitively, each word important. “It is beautiful.” Null says that she’s so thankful for all the “amazing” community partners that her school and her students get to interact with as they learn and grow and live, but emphasized how the MDI Bio Lab goes out of its way to create something meaningful, something that allows her young students to build their own agency, to know that they can be impactful in their community, to show them how how things they learn about in text is connected to themselves and their community. Woods explains, “Axolotls have an extraordinary ability to regenerate, or regrow, certain body parts, including limbs. Scientists study these animals to understand how regeneration works and what their biology might teach us about tissue repair and healing in humans.” The children enter the space for “a memorable introduction to a big scientific question,” Woods said. “How can some animals regrow body parts? The encounter encourages children to look closely, wonder about what they see and begin to understand how scientists use observations and experiments to investigate questions.” “For the students, the visit is an opportunity to explore a fascinating animal and meet scientists in their own community,” Woods explains. “For MDI Biological Laboratory, it is a chance to share the excitement of research, nurture curiosity, and help young learners discover that science begins with asking questions.“ At the beginning of the school year, Pemetic kindergarteners didn’t know what the axolotl was—at least not exactly—now they know all about the axolotl’s life cycle. “It’s different than a butterfly,” one student told Mrs. Null. It is. The change and knowledge might seem small**,** but it offers a glimpse of what happens when a subject moves beyond the pages of a book and into a child’s world. The children have been learning about butterflies at the Charlotte Rhoades Park and Butterfly Garden. At both the garden and the MDI Bio Lab, the children see the animals, meet the scientists who study them and at the lab encounter a question that researchers are still working to answer: how can some creatures regenerate body parts, and what might that teach us about healing in humans? They leave with gift bags, paper-plate salamanders, new things to wonder about and a connection between the science they learn in school and the work happening in their own community. The axolotls may be remarkable for their ability to grow back what they have lost. For these young students, the day offers something different: a chance to discover how much there is to ask, observe, and imagine. When Null’s students had time to use chalk and draw whatever they want, in the beginning of the year, they drew rainbows. Now? They’re using that chalk and choosing to draw axolotls instead. About MDI Bio Laboratory For more than 125 years, MDI Bio Lab has been a center for training and research in comparative biology. In the last two decades its biomedical research has focused on aging, regeneration, and environmental toxins. The Laboratory houses 11 research groups staffed by an international team of world-class scientists and graduate students. It also leads a statewide network of colleges, universities and research institutions that collaborate to provide training, research experiences and financial support to help young Mainers play a bigger role in today’s biomedical revolution. Located on Maine’s rugged coast, the Laboratory’s 100+ acre campus houses research facilities, cottages and dorms that house visiting scientists and students. It is also home to MDI Bioscience, a subsidiary working to design innovative techniques to speed the drug discovery process. The Bar Harbor Story is generously sponsored by Rick Osann Art. LINKS TO LEARN MORE NIH INBRE MDI BIOLOGICAL LABORATORY Pemetic Elementary School Hello, I’m an Axolotl Photos: Carrie Jones/Bar Harbor Story HELP SUPPORT THE BAR HARBOR STORY When we started The Bar Harbor Story, we didn’t know if anyone would read it. But you showed up. You shared. You sent tips. Now—over 400,000 views every month later—it’s clear: people here care about their community and each other. We’ve kept everything free because news should never be out of reach, but every one of our stories takes time to write, and your support keeps The Bar Harbor Story going. If you value our work, please consider a paid subscription, a founding membership, or a sponsorship. It truly helps us cover one more meeting, tell one more story, shine one more light. Even $5 a month makes a difference. Click here to become a one-time supporter now. Thank you so much for being here. Founding member information can be found here. Have questions about sponsorships? Just send Shaun an email at sfarrar86@gmail.com, he’d love to hear from you. Subscribe Share Bar Harbor Story Share Leave a comment
Voters weigh in as early turnout builds in WA’s tight swing district
As Election Day approaches, voters in Washington's 3rd Congressional District discuss their hopes, concerns and choices in a closely watched tight race.
The False Dichotomy of Abolishing Business Schools
The fix is more pluralism, not less. We should open doors, not close them.
UTC Nanoengineering Center receives $600,000 for Army materials research
The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga’s Nanoengineering Center, a research center within the UTC Research Institute, has received a $600,000 award to contribute advanced computational modeling expertise to an Army-supported research project focused on developing and manufacturing advanced materials for demanding applications. Dr. Murat Barisik, director of the Nanoengineering Center and an associate professor of mechanical engineering in the College of Engineering and Computer Science, is leading UTC’s work on the project.
Paul Heyman reveals what derailed Brock Lesnar’s UFC career
Regarded as one of the top professional wrestlers in the industry, Brock Lesnar has also experienced a successful sporting career in multiple other industries. A former NFL player as well as a successful UFC fighter , Lesnar has done it all. Done with his NFL and UFC careers a long time ago, Lesnar recently retired from WWE after losing to Oba Femi […] The post Paul Heyman reveals what derailed Brock Lesnar’s UFC career appeared first on ClutchPoints.
Schneider to shift eastern rail business to Norfolk Southern from CSX
Schneider National will make Norfolk Southern its primary eastern rail provider as the railroad pursues a merger with Union Pacific.
Audit finds millions in questionable payments, at ND Health and Human Services
The audit, covering the two-year period ending June 30, 2025, uncovered problems ranging from payments to behavioral health providers who failed to meet participation requirements to incomplete background checks for in-home care workers.
The Latest: Peltola denies knowing of effort to put another Sullivan on Senate ballot
President Donald Trump has canceled weekend rallies in Iowa and Kansas, opting instead to support Republican candidates with telerallies that his party says could reach more voters in nearly two dozen states in the final days of an election that could cost the GOP control of Congress.
Man Utd dealt transfer blow as Leeds star makes decision
Man Utd have already been denied in their pursuit of Leeds United striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin, it would appear. The Red Devils were linked with the England international on Thursday, with The Athlet...
Dennis Krause Blog: Packers did what they had to do
The Green Bay defense of Jonathan Gannon bottled up the Carolina offense
Community Halloween Safety Reminders
As neighborhoods prepare to celebrate Halloween, the Central MA Regional Health Department would like to remind residents and motorists to take simple precautions to ensure a fun, healthy, and injury-
Why is the Cheesecake Factory at the center of the latest culture war?
A joke by former President Obama has gone viral and received backlash from the Trump administration as the issue of affordability looms large over next week's midterm elections.
These Utah congressional candidates know they probably won’t win. Here’s why they’re running anyway.
“I’m not delusional. If I were a politically ambitious person in Utah, I would have been a Republican a long time ago,” unaffiliated candidate Steven Burt said.
How Can Science Better Support Interdisciplinary Researchers?
Academics and industry experts discuss how science can better support interdisciplinary researchers through reforming funding applications, collaboration, and traditional career advancement.
World Conference on Traditional Medicine 2026 delivers landmark outcomes for global health
Expert Committee Meeting members at the World Conference on Traditional Medicine 2026© WHOThe World Conference on Traditional Medicine 2026 concluded in Beijing on 18 October with several key outcomes aimed at strengthening global cooperation for health and well-being. These included the adoption of the Beijing Initiative on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Traditional Medicinal Plant Resources, the promotion of the New-Era Shennong Herbal Project, and the publication of the Report on artificial intelligence empowering global traditional medicine development (2026). The conference also marked the establishment of the Global Alliance for Traditional and Integrative Medicine (GATIM) to foster international scientific collaboration.The biennial conference, held on 17–18 October at the China National Convention Center in Beijing, was co-hosted by the People's Government of Beijing Municipality, the National Health Commission, the National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and the National Medical Products Administration. WHO joined the Conference as co-sponsor, aligning with the country’s Healthy China initiative, which is overseen by President Xi Jinping. The initiative seeks to expand inclusive, high-quality health services, drive innovation in traditional medicine, and reinforce the principle that a healthy population is fundamental to national prosperity and strength. H.E. Li Qiang, Premier of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China, addressed the opening ceremony, emphasizing the critical role of traditional medicine as a unique force in safeguarding human health and advancing civilization. "Traditional medicine has followed a distinctive path of development through long-term practice," Li stated. He called on the international community to strengthen cooperation, make better use of global traditional medicine resources, and jointly address challenges to human health. Premier Li also highlighted the necessity of harnessing science and technology to accelerate the innovative development of traditional medicine. He announced that China would promote the digital and intelligent transformation of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and encourage active participation from both Chinese and foreign research institutions and enterprises. Furthermore, he expressed China's willingness to expand pilot programs to open up the medical service sector and work with all parties to advance the development of Belt and Road medicinal resources conservation centre.Addressing the Conference participants via a video message, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, said, "This is not a choice between tradition and science. It is about bringing knowledge systems together through research, innovation, regulation and quality assurance. We need stronger evidence on what works, for whom, and under what conditions."Dr Saia Ma'u Piukala, WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific, addressed the opening session, underscoring the importance of integrating traditional medicine into mainstream health systems in line with the call of the WHO Global Strategy on Traditional Medicine 2025–2034. In the closing session, Dr Shyama Kuruvilla, Director of the WHO Global Traditional Medicine Centre, expressed appreciation for the achievements of the conference, where different world views and scientific and programmatic advances were exchanged with a clear focus on practical action to advance traditional medicine for the health and well-being of people and the planet.The conference, held under the theme Technology Empowerment and Integrated Development: Advancing Traditional Medicine for All, featured a government forum, ministerial round table and eight parallel forums to advance all four objectives of the WHO Global Traditional Medicine Strategy 2025–2034: strengthening evidence, ensuring safety through regulation, integrating traditional, complementary and integrative medicine into health systems, and realizing its value through action across sectors.Over the two-day event, nearly 2000 participants, experts and scholars from 103 countries and areas, including 16 ministerial-level health officials, delivered over 150 high-level speeches and reports. Discussions covered key areas such as the integration of traditional medicine into international health systems, evidence-based development, drug regulation and the application of artificial intelligence in traditional medicine.
Snowfall and clouds may slow East Antarctic ice loss in a warmer world
A new modeling study, published in the journal Nature Climate Change, suggests that the East Antarctic Ice Sheet may be more resilient to extreme long-term warming than previously estimated. Increased snowfall, greater cloud cover, and changes in atmospheric circulation could partially offset ice loss—even under very high carbon dioxide concentrations. Researchers from the IBS Center for Climate Physics at Pusan National University in South Korea conducted idealized simulations with different atmospheric CO2 levels, spanning 100,000 years using a coupled global climate–ice-sheet model. Unlike conventional studies that prescribe atmospheric and oceanic conditions, the model allowed climate and the Greenland and Antarctic ice sheets to evolve together.
Your last-minute guide to Proposition 44: Health center spending
Proposition 44 asks voters to require federally funded community health centers to spend at least 90% of their total annual revenue on “program services advancing their charitable purpose.”
'Time is the fire in which we burn': 2 major cast losses rock the passionate 'Star Trek' universe
First Walter Koenig, who played Ensign Pavel Chekov in the original series during the 1960s, died at age 90. Then, four days later, the cosmos lost Patrick Stewart. The Shakespearean actor in 1987...
'Time is the fire in which we burn': 2 major cast losses rock the passionate 'Star Trek' universe
First Walter Koenig, who played Ensign Pavel Chekov in the original series during the 1960s, died at age 90 | KNX News 1070 AM
Binance hack latest: Crypto heist had 'additional points of breach'
Binance, the world's largest crypto exchange, said it had identified more "points of breach" in a "complex" $6.3 billion hack.
UConn Professor Co-Chairs National Academies Study of Federal Small Business Innovation Programs
Two-year study examines how Department of Energy research investments support innovation, entrepreneurship, national priorities
AP Decision Notes: What to expect in Arizona on Election Day
Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs of Arizona is seeking a second term on Election Day, but faces a challenge from Republican Rep. Andy Biggs. Voters in Arizona will also be deciding
AP Decision Notes: What to expect in Wisconsin on Election Day
Democrats in midterm races nationwide are seeking to capitalize on President Donald Trump's declining approval ratings to gain seats and win control of Congress. One of the most competitive House
Why science has a rational explanation for most hauntings
Haunted houses seem unexplainable but like everything else out there, science has some answers to this mysery.
The two most interesting risks to Anthropic
Anthropic gave a 94-page list of risk factors in its S-1 this week. Two of them stood out.
Employers urged to rethink hiring practices
Iowa employers facing a shrinking pool of available workers will need to look beyond traditional recruiting practices, invest more heavily in developing talent and find new ways to retain experienced employees as retirements accelerate in the coming years, workforce experts said during the Business Record’s recent Jobs Outlook panel discussion. The challenges are significant. U.S.…
A shorter road to a bachelor's degree
Kayla Milius wants a college degree, but isn’t looking forward to spending years paying off the student loan debt she will accumulate. So, when Milius learned that Upper Iowa University in Fayette was offering a bachelor’s degree in business administration that requires three years of studying instead of the traditional four, she was intrigued. However,…
Okinawa’s politics move beyond the military base divide
Koja’s landslide victory reveals an Okinawan electorate increasingly shaped by economic priorities, generational change and more differentiated views of security.
DataFi Donation Ceremony at the Ministry of Health-Remarks by ADCM Steve Bremner
DataFi Donation Ceremony at the Ministry of Health Remarks by Acting Deputy Chief of Mission a.i. Steve Bremner (…) I’m pleased to join the Ministry of Public Health and our implementer, Palladium, today to hand over IT equipment including 80 laptops, 300 tablets, and Monitoring and Evaluation reporting tools for CSBII. Good health decisions start with good data. When a health worker in a remote commune notices unusual fever cases, that information must reach district and national teams fast. Every hour counts. Fast, reliable data helps the Ministry detect an outbreak early, send teams where they’re needed, and stop a disease before it spreads. These laptops and tablets will help do exactly that. They’ll strengthen Madagascar’s health information system and disease surveillance so health workers can collect, report, and use data faster and more accurately. This support reflects the America First Global Health Strategy. Under this strategy, the United States works directly with partner governments based on country ownership, shared investment, and accountability for results. Together, we’re strengthening Madagascar’s ability to detect and respond to outbreaks quickly though the MOU signed in December 2025. This work protects Malagasy families and the American people. Today also marks a transition. The Data.FI project is ending, but the work will continue. Palladium will continue to carry these same activities forward through a new project, AFGHS Palladium, under the State Department’s Bureau of Global Health Security and Diplomacy. The new project will put an even stronger focus on results. Mister SG, your ministry’s close collaboration with Data.FI made today possible. I hope you will bring the same commitment to this new project. Together, we can deliver even greater results and speed up the transfer of skills to Ministry teams. Our shared goal is to build the ministry’s capacity to lead, manage, and sustain these systems on its own. That is Madagascar’s path to self-reliance. Equipment alone doesn’t stop an outbreak. People do. To the health workers and data managers who will use these tools: thank you for your dedication. To the Ministry: we count on you to put these devices to work quickly, keep them in good condition, and protect the data they hold. That’s how this investment will deliver results for years to come. The United States stands with the Government of Madagascar. We commend the Ministry of Public Health for its leadership. We look forward to continuing our collaboration through AFGHS Palladium and beyond. Thank you. Misaotra betsaka.
Baptist Health Lexington shares photos of NICU babies in Halloween costumes
Baptist Health Lexington shared some photos of babies in the neonatal intensive care unit wearing costumes to celebrate the Halloween season.