Category Science & Technology
Molecular biologist receives Stephen Jay Gould Prize
Sean Carroll, a University of Wisconsin–Madison molecular biologist and a Howard Hughes Medical Institute investigator, has been named the recipient of the 2010 Stephen Jay Gould Prize, an award given in recognition of exemplary efforts to advance public understanding of evolutionary science.
Study explores link between sunlight, multiple sclerosis
For more than 30 years, scientists have known that multiple sclerosis (MS) is much more common in higher latitudes than in the tropics. Because sunlight is more abundant near the equator, many researchers have wondered if the high levels of vitamin D engendered by sunlight could explain this unusual pattern of prevalence.
Twenty-year study yields precise model of tectonic-plate movements
A new model of the Earth, 20 years in the making, describes a dynamic three-dimensional puzzle of planetary proportions.
Engineers revolutionizing Third World housing and infrastructure featured at WARF Gilson event
The recent earthquake in Haiti graphically demonstrated to the world how the impact of a natural disaster is magnified by poorly constructed housing and unplanned infrastructure.
Book, research sparked professor’s passion for the gas and dust of the galaxy
Most people first think of the stars when thinking about outer space — but Snezana Stanimirovic is more interested in what’s between them.
From raw biomass, chemical process produces simple, fermentable sugars
A University of Wisconsin–Madison research team has developed a promising new chemical method to liberate the sugar molecules trapped inside inedible plant biomass, a key step in the creation of cellulosic biofuels.
Where the invasive things are — and where they could be
Researchers at the University of Wisconsin–Madison's Center for Limnology have launched a new Web site to help assess the threat of aquatic invasive species in Wisconsin's lakes.
Celebrating 25 years at UW–Madison’s Biotechnology Center
On Wednesday, March 10, the University of Wisconsin–Madison campus community and guests will join in celebrating 25 years of operation at the UW–Madison Biotechnology Center.
Weather Guys get new platform at Why Files Web site
The Weather Guys - two University of Wisconsin–Madison professors of atmospheric sciences - will now appear at The Why Files, a Web site that covers science behind the headlines.
DNR taps UW–Madison expertise to measure, manage state deer herd
Wisconsin wildlife managers are tapping into University of Wisconsin–Madison expertise in wildlife ecology, forest ecology and environmental communications in order to better manage the state's population of white-tailed deer.
Template engineering demonstrates possibilities of new superconducting material
A breakthrough approach by University of Wisconsin–Madison researchers and their collaborators in fabricating thin films of a new superconducting material has yielded promising results: The material has a current-carrying potential 500 times that of previous experiments, making it significant for a variety of practical applications.
New approach could produce multifunction nanodevices
A team led by University of Wisconsin–Madison researchers has developed a new approach for creating powerful nanodevices, and their discoveries could pave the way for other researchers to begin more widespread development of these devices.
Novel compound found effective against avian influenza virus
A novel compound is highly effective against the pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza virus, including some drug-resistant strains, according to new research led by a University of Wisconsin–Madison virologist.
New process yields high-energy-density plant-based transportation fuel
A team of University of Wisconsin–Madison engineers has developed a highly efficient, environmentally friendly process that selectively converts gamma-valerolactone, a biomass derivative, into the chemical equivalent of jet fuel.
UW-Madison physicists build basic quantum computing circuit
Exerting delicate control over a pair of atoms within a mere seven-millionths-of-a-second window of opportunity, physicists at the University of Wisconsin–Madison created an atomic circuit that may help quantum computing become a reality.
Two selected as American Geophysical Union fellows
Two University of Wisconsin–Madison scientists have been named fellows of the American Geophysical Union, a distinction made for exceptional scientific contributions and eminence in the Earth or space sciences.
Virus hybridization could create pandemic bird flu
Genetic interactions between avian H5N1 influenza and human seasonal influenza viruses have the potential to create hybrid strains combining the virulence of bird flu with the pandemic ability of H1N1, according to a new study.
Induced neural stem cells: Not quite ready for prime time
The great promise of induced pluripotent stem cells is that the all-purpose cells seem capable of performing all the same tricks as embryonic stem cells, but without the controversy.
Morgridge Institute for Research announces scientific leadership team, research areas
The Morgridge Institute for Research has finalized its inaugural team of top scientists selected to bring to life the institute's mission of accelerating discovery to delivery to improve human health.
Location technology homes in on where stuff, people are
If you commute by mass transit in Madison or Chicago, Jignesh Patel can tell you, to the minute, when your bus will pull up to your stop. He can do this no matter the weather or traffic conditions.