Latest News
Northwestern experts discuss voter suppression ahead of presidential election
By A. D. Nghiem | Oct 7, 2024
With the U.S. Presidential election approaching, concerns have emerged over efforts to purge voter rolls in key battleground states. The Department of Justice is investigating potential violations of federal rules regarding registered voter lists.
UChicago team finds new way to detect atmospheres on distant exoplanets
By A. D. Nghiem | Oct 7, 2024
Researchers at the University of Chicago have developed a new method to determine if distant exoplanets possess atmospheres. This study, led by PhD student Qiao Xue and Professor Jacob Bean's group, promises a simpler and more efficient approach than previous techniques. The method holds potential for understanding atmosphere formation patterns when applied to more planets.
University of Chicago researchers receive prestigious Department of Energy awards
By R. B. Pepalis | Oct 4, 2024
Two University of Chicago scientists have been recognized by the U.S. Department of Energy's Early Career Research Program. Assistant Professor Allison Squires from the Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering and Assistant Professor Austin Joyce from Astronomy and Astrophysics are among 91 recipients selected for this honor, announced on September 10.
UIC offers flu vaccine clinics for eligible employees and retirees
By J. D. Suayan | Oct 4, 2024
State of Illinois employees and retirees who are enrolled in the Quality Care Health Plan or state-sponsored managed care plans, including Health Maintenance Organizations or Open Access Plans, can receive seasonal flu shots. However, dependents, spouses, contractual workers, volunteers, consultants, part-time employees not enrolled in a group insurance plan, and students are not eligible for this program. Additionally, employees who have opted out of health insurance coverage through the state cannot participate.
University of Chicago forum explores Middle East peace paths
By A. I. Benavidez | Oct 3, 2024
The University of Chicago Forum on Free Inquiry and Expression is set to host a series of events exploring the potential for peace in the Middle East. These discussions, marking one year since the conflict in Israel and Gaza, aim to engage the UChicago community in dialogue about future paths. The events align with the Chicago Forum’s mission to promote free and open discourse.
Bacteria discovered capable of breaking down plastics for food
By C. D. McHugh | Oct 3, 2024
Researchers at Northwestern University have made a significant discovery regarding the breakdown of plastic by a common family of environmental bacteria known as Comamonadacae. These bacteria, often found in urban rivers and wastewater systems, have been observed growing on plastics. The study, published in Environmental Science & Technology, reveals that a specific bacterium within this family can degrade plastic to use it as a food source.
Northwestern hosts forum on upcoming Supreme Court term amid election tensions
By A. A. Sanchez | Oct 3, 2024
The U.S. Supreme Court is set to reconvene on Monday, October 7, following a previous term marked by significant decisions on issues such as presidential immunity, abortion, and government regulation of businesses and the unhoused. As a contentious presidential election approaches and public approval ratings for the Court remain low, there is widespread interest in how the justices will approach this session.
UIC launches guidebook on accessing behavioral health services
By M. N. Tirado | Oct 3, 2024
The University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) Health and Well-being department has released a new resource aimed at assisting students in accessing behavioral health services on campus. The guidebook, titled “A Student’s Guide to Accessing Behavioral Health Services at UIC,” comes in response to findings from the Healthy Minds Study, which revealed that around 25% of students are unaware of how to access mental and emotional health services.
UIC introduces new policies for research data management amid federal guideline updates
By R. B. Pepalis | Oct 3, 2024
The University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) has introduced two new policies to assist researchers in aligning with updated federal guidelines on data management and sharing. These policies are designed to address changes implemented by federal research sponsors and other funding bodies.
UIC introduces new public statements and open expression policies
By K. R. Nelson | Oct 3, 2024
The University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) has introduced a new public statements policy along with a revised open expression policy. These changes are part of the university's ongoing efforts to create an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives and the exchange of ideas are prioritized.
Chicago's lowrider festival returns to Navy Pier for Hispanic Heritage Month
By A. D. Bamburg | Oct 2, 2024
Organizers have announced the return of Slow&Low: Chicago Lowrider Festival to Navy Pier on Saturday, October 12.
Bioelectronic implant project receives $34M funding boost
By E. F. Cullerton | Oct 2, 2024
A collaborative research team, including engineers from Northwestern University, has secured up to $34 million from the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H) to expedite the development of a bioelectronic implant aimed at treating obesity and Type 2 diabetes. This announcement was made by the agency today.
UChicago study reveals RNA's role in DNA packaging linked to cancer
By A. I. Benavidez | Oct 2, 2024
A recent study by scientists at the University of Chicago has unveiled a crucial role of RNA in DNA packaging and storage within cells, linked to a gene known as TET2. This discovery sheds light on why many cancers and disorders involve TET2-related mutations and suggests new targets for treatment.
Illinois Tech team competes in XPRIZE Rainforest finals
By Southland Marquee | Oct 1, 2024
A team led by Illinois Institute of Technology (Illinois Tech) Professor Matthew Spenko has returned from the Amazon after competing in the finals of the XPRIZE Rainforest competition. The team, named Welcome to the Jungle, included members from Purdue University, Natural State, The Morton Arboretum, the Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden-Chinese Academy of Sciences, and local Indigenous communities.
University of Chicago alumna Ling Ma awarded 2024 MacArthur Fellowship
By J. D. Suayan | Oct 1, 2024
Ling Ma, an alumna of the University of Chicago and a distinguished fiction writer, has been awarded a 2024 MacArthur Fellowship. The John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation grants these fellowships annually to individuals across various disciplines who exhibit "exceptional originality in and dedication to their creative pursuits." Recipients are provided with $800,000 stipends for use at their discretion.
Architecture student wins second place in national preservation competition
By Southland Marquee | Oct 1, 2024
Thomas Lozanovski, a fifth-year architecture student, was inspired by a flyer in S. R. Crown Hall to participate in the Charles E. Peterson Prize competition, hosted by the National Park Service’s Heritage Documentation Programs. The competition recognizes the best set of measured drawings prepared by students according to Heritage Documentation Programs standards.
UChicago receives $60 million gift from alumni for finance master's program
By M. N. Tirado | Oct 1, 2024
The University of Chicago has received a $60 million donation from alumni Clifford Asness and John Liew to support the Booth School of Business and its Master in Finance program. In recognition of their contribution, the program will be renamed the Asness and Liew Master in Finance Program.
University celebrates National Disability Employment Awareness Month with professional development program
By A. I. Benavidez | Oct 1, 2024
The University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) and the Office for Access and Equity are marking the 2024 National Disability Employment Awareness Month. This year's theme is "Access to Good Jobs for All."
Illinois launches $5 million marketing campaign for manufacturing sector revitalization
By R. B. Pepalis | Oct 1, 2024
On October 1, Governor JB Pritzker announced the launch of a new marketing campaign titled "Make It In Illinois" at Richard J. Daley College in Chicago. The $5 million initiative aims to revitalize the state's manufacturing sector by attracting new talent and altering perceptions about careers in manufacturing.
Department of Energy awards new contract for Fermilab operations
By E. F. Cullerton | Oct 1, 2024
The U.S. Department of Energy announced on October 1 that it has awarded a new management and operating contract for Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory to Fermi Forward Discovery Group, LLC. The contract is set for a five-year term starting January 1, 2025.