Category Science & Technology
Great Lakes research to fuel emerging bioeconomy
GLBRC is laying the groundwork for economically viable and environmentally sustainable biorefineries that use dedicated bioenergy crops grown on land unsuitable for food production — work that could serve as a cornerstone for an emerging bioeconomy.
Tom Brock, who discovered world-changing extremophiles, dies at 94
One of the species Brock discovered helped usher in the modern era of molecular biology and underpins today’s PCR tests for the COVID-19 virus.
Human genome editing requires difficult conversations between science and society
Researchers argue that such advanced technologies demand more robust and thoughtful public engagement if they are to be harnessed to benefit society without crossing ethical lines.
Arsenic is more common in wells near fractured bedrock in southeastern Wisconsin
The findings come from an ongoing survey of the extent and causes of arsenic contamination in groundwater led by Eric Stewart of the Wisconsin Geological and Natural History Survey.
New chemistry makes ‘magic’ drug improvements easier
Drug developers could use the technique to test whether a drug candidate might be improved with a new methyl group, potentially saving otherwise promising drugs from the trash heap.
Human-Computer Interaction focuses on technology to improve daily lives
Human-Computer Interaction research at UW–Madison aims to make technology more accessible while fostering efficiency in human-centered tasks.
Micro-molded ‘ice cube tray’ scaffold is next step in returning sight to injured retinas
New advances by medical researchers and engineers at UW–Madison may provide hope for those suffering from vision loss.
Wendt appointed associate vice chancellor for research in the physical sciences
“My unintended role as a trailblazer has led to a career-long pursuit of diversity in STEM,” says Wendt, a professor of electrical and computer engineering.
Research reveals a more accurate picture of invasive fish virus
Since the early 2000s, viral hemorrhagic septicemia has caused deaths in more than 30 fish species in the Great Lakes region.
Imaging system allows us to see UV and visible light simultaneously
While the first device is a proof of concept measuring about 8 inches long, the system could be downsized for use in commercial products, like a device similar to binoculars.
Advanced microscopy technique could help UW reach new frontiers in the biosciences
At its most basic level, it takes pictures. That’s the scaled-down explanation of cryogenic electron microscopy, or cryo-EM. But it’s so much more than that.
Metabolic switch may regenerate heart muscle following heart attack
“We believe our findings are a positive step forward in helping millions of people facing heart failure," says Ahmed Mahmoud, professor of cell and regenerative biology.
UW–Madison alum’s mask makes Time magazine’s list of best inventions of 2020
Max Bock-Aronson says his UW engineering education, and the opportunities he had as a student, played a crucial role developing his entrepreneurial skills.
New UW–Madison campus sustainability map goes live
The interactive map enables viewers to travel around campus virtually to explore sustainability initiatives. Clicking on the more than 300 features brings up a description of achievements.
Off to a busy start, data institute responds to COVID and seeks director
The American Family Insurance Data Science Institute’s first two years have been nothing if not eventful. Choosing a director is the next big project.
Three UW–Madison students named 2021 Goldwater Scholars
The scholarship program honors the late Sen. Barry Goldwater and was designed to develop highly qualified scientists, engineers and mathematicians.
New condenser makes water from air, even in the hot sun
Unlike other radiative vapor condensers which can only operate at night, the new design works in direct sunlight and requires no energy input.
Science Expeditions, Engineering Expo offer virtual events statewide April 9–11
Both open houses will provide greater access than ever to UW–Madison research labs, at-home experiments and live science demonstrations.
Disrupted biochemical pathway in the brain linked to bipolar disorder
The results offer a foundation for research into treating the often-overlooked cognitive impairments of bipolar disorder, such as memory loss, and add to a growing understanding of how the biochemistry of the brain affects health and disease.
New nondestructive optical technique reveals the structure of mother-of-pearl
Scientists have admired and marveled at the material for decades, not only for its beauty and optical properties but because of its exceptional toughness.