Category Science & Technology
New cryo-electron microscopy centers help UW researchers uncover mysteries of life
The technology allows scientists to capture detailed information about the smallest components of living cells to understand everything from more effective drug development to how viruses infect cells.
PhD student researches the chemical origins of life
In 2019, Lena Vincent led a study that has become an essential guide for other astrobiology researchers trying to understand how, from a complex mix of chemicals, life could emerge anywhere that basic building blocks exist.
Altered gene helps plants absorb more carbon dioxide, produce more useful compounds
If scientists could add a trait like this to crops or drug-producing plants, it could help them produce more chemicals naturally while reducing greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.
Latest round of Research Forward supports cross-campus collaborations and diversity
The projects range from probing the origins of the universe, to examining the negative effects of poverty on adolescent academic success, to developing a new type of anti-tumor vaccine that can be used to treat cancer.
Universe in the Park
Away from the glare of city lights, under dark skies in our state parks, UW–Madison's Astronomy Department presents "Universe in the Park" at locations throughout Wisconsin during the summer months.
Were U Wondering? The worms’ turn
In this episode of "Were U Wondering," Brad Herrick, an ecologist and research program manager at the UW–Madison Arboretum, explains why earthworms dig out of the soil when it rains, and you see them littering the sidewalks.
Non-invasive liquid biopsy tracks cancer treatment success in real time
These blood tests could help physicians better treat their patients by allowing them to see which treatments are working in real time without the need for repeated, invasive biopsies of solid tumors.
New research shows no evidence of structural brain change with short-term mindfulness training
“We are still in the early stages of research on the effects of meditation training on the brain and there is much to be discovered,” says Center for Healthy Minds founder and director Richard Davidson.
Faculty receive WARF Named Professorships, Kellett Fellowships, and Romnes Awards
Thirty-two members of the UW–Madison faculty have been awarded fellowships from the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research and Graduate Education, spanning the arts and humanities, physical sciences, social sciences and biological sciences.
UW names Glenda Gillaspy dean of agricultural and life sciences
Plant scientist Glenda Gillaspy, a professor of biochemistry in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Virginia Tech since 1998, has been named the next dean of the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences at UW–Madison. She has been and head of the department since 2015.
The search for how life on Earth transformed from simple to complex
A new NASA collaboration of astrobiology researchers co-led by a UW–Madison professor will spend the next five years dedicating their efforts to understanding how life evolved on earth, and how it possibly could evolve on other worlds.
Cutting air pollution emissions would save 50,000 U.S. lives, $600 billion each year
Eliminating air pollution emissions from energy-related activities in the United States would prevent more than 50,000 premature deaths each year and provide more than $600…
Madison-based computing power makes it possible to see our black hole for the first time
A team of scientists and the National Science Foundation shared images of Sagittarius A*, the black hole at the center of the Milky Way galaxy.
Detailed analysis of old star provides template for heavy element formation
In a new study, astronomers identified the elemental composition of HD 222925, a Milky Way star located over 1400 lightyears from earth.
UW mourns an important mathematician and beloved mentor
Georgia Benkart, emeritus professor of mathematics, died unexpectedly on April 29. “Each of her papers was a polished gem,” a colleague says of Benkart. Among many professional distinctions, she served as president of the Association for Women in Mathematics in 2009–11.
Drone-delivered defibrillators could save lives
The new research details the framework for designing a network of AED-outfitted, autonomous flying drones, which could allow the life-saving devices to more quickly reach people experiencing cardiac arrest.
Report: Scales tipping against walleye; time to get hooked on new fish
Wisconsin spends millions each year to keep the walleye fishery running. But researchers say it is time to shift the emphasis from restoring struggling species to adapting to new conditions that favor different species.
UW School of Computer, Data & Information Sciences adds three degree programs
The new degree programs, which will launch in the fall, are designed to increase skills that are in high demand, preparing a talent pipeline that will drive economic growth in the region and beyond.
UW Veterinary Care offers rabbit vaccine against highly contagious, fatal disease
The clinic is one of about a dozen animal hospitals in the state to offer the vaccine and part of a growing effort nationally to encourage rabbit owners to seek vaccination.
Study finds 63% of teens have healthy relationship with digital technology
Researchers in the UW School of Medicine and Public Health say family rules on the amount of screen time teens are allowed are less effective in fostering good digital practices than focusing on the content of what they are viewing.