2020 Science News

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Two faculty members named Canada Research Chairs

  • Katie Willis
  • 17 December 2020
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Cougars respond to roads based on human activity, topography, and time of day

  • Katie Willis
  • 19 October 2020
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CFC replacements are a source of persistent organic pollution in the Arctic

  • Katie Willis
  • 14 May 2020

Recent Posts

UAlberta researcher leads study examining Vancouver public transit ridership to learn what challenges need to be overcome to build confidence in public transit safety.

New study explores riders’ opinions—and anxieties—about public transit in the age of COVID-19

  • Andrew Lyle
  • 17 December 2020
Linglong Kong and Christopher Sturdy will receive new funding through the Government of Canada’s Canada Research Chair program.

Two faculty members named Canada Research Chairs

  • Katie Willis
  • 17 December 2020
A master’s in modeling, data, and predictions will prepare graduates for work in industry or government as data scientists and analysts.

Industry ready: New master’s program will train the data scientists of tomorrow

  • Katie Willis
  • 16 December 2020
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Canada Research Chair a twofold boon for U of A expert in women’s entrepreneurship

  • Michael Brown
  • 16 December 2020
A snowshoe hare resting during a cold winter day

Less winter snow could spell disaster for snowshoe hares

  • Katie Willis
  • 15 December 2020
Two University of Alberta professors overhaul the course focusing on the practical applications of mathematics to the study of life.

The life mathematic: Redesign of mathematical biology courses shares new perspectives in understanding the biological world

  • Katie Willis
  • 14 December 2020
Solid, liquid, gas, and more: UAlberta PhD student maps physics of interacting quantum-mechanical systems in new study.

Solid, liquid, gas, and more: UAlberta PhD student maps physics of interacting quantum-mechanical systems in new study

  • Andrew Lyle
  • 14 December 2020
Taylor Rogers packs lab kits to send to undergraduate students.

Little box, big physics: At-home lab kits bring hands-on science home for undergraduates

  • Andrew Lyle
  • 11 December 2020
Meet Jeffrey Johnston, industrial designer and lead coordinator of the Fabrication Lab in the Department of Biological Sciences.

Celebrating staff: Jeffrey Johnston

  • Katie Willis
  • 7 December 2020
Hear from Professor Maya Evenden on entomology, teaching, and her advice for students learning remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Let’s Talk Teaching: Meet entomologist Maya Evenden

  • Katie Willis
  • 4 December 2020
Kiran and Neel Phaterpekar have been named UAlberta Academic All-Canadians in recognition of their academic standing and athletic achievements.

Game, set, match: Tennis-playing brothers recognized for excellence in academics and athletics

  • Katie Willis
  • 2 December 2020
Undergraduate Scott Dixon has been named one of UAlberta’s Academic All-Canadians in recognition of his academic standing and athletic achievements.

Eye on the prize: Meet athlete, student, and intern Scott Dixon

  • Katie Willis
  • 2 December 2020
Fourth-year student Nicol shares her experiences with the Honours Psychology program.

Finding my place through the psychology honors program

  • Nicol
  • 1 December 2020
New research sheds light on stem cell proliferation and terminal differentiation in fruit flies, with implications for human health. Photo credit: Hannah Davis / CC 4.0

Stem cell study identifies enzyme with potential for cancer treatment

  • Andrew Lyle
  • 25 November 2020
New research by UAlberta chemists shows that ultrasonic humidifiers release significant concentrations of particulate matter.

Using tap water in an ultrasonic humidifier may be polluting your air, study shows

  • Katie Willis
  • 24 November 2020
Meet some of the graduating class of Fall 2020—and celebrate convocation virtually with them on November 20.

Celebrating the graduates of Fall 2020: Jessa Marley

  • News Staff
  • 19 November 2020
Meet some of the graduating class of Fall 2020—and celebrate convocation virtually with them on November 20.

Celebrating the graduates of Fall 2020: Margo Regier

  • News Staff
  • 19 November 2020
Graduate student-organized seminar series addresses lack of visibility of LGBTQ2S+ people in science.

Scientific QUEERies: Seminar series highlights experiences of LGBTQ2S+ people in STEM

  • Katie Willis
  • 18 November 2020
Meet some of the graduating class of Fall 2020—and celebrate convocation virtually with them on November 20.

Celebrating the graduates of Fall 2020: Jens Boos

  • News Staff
  • 18 November 2020
Meet some of the graduating class of Fall 2020—and celebrate convocation virtually with them on November 20.

Celebrating the graduates of Fall 2020: Ayooluwa Oladosu

  • News Staff
  • 18 November 2020
Member of the graduating class of Fall 2020 Christopher Jay Robidillo looks back on his time and accomplishments at UAlberta.

Celebrating the graduates of Fall 2020: Christopher Jay Robidillo

  • News Staff
  • 17 November 2020
Meet some of the graduating class of Fall 2020—and celebrate convocation virtually with them on November 20.

Celebrating the graduates of Fall 2020: Caitlin Neutzling

  • News Staff
  • 17 November 2020
Join us in meeting some of the amazing graduates of Fall 2020, and celebrate convocation with them on November 20.

Celebrating the graduates of Fall 2020: McKenna Gawalko

  • News Staff
  • 16 November 2020
Hear from Shawn Desaulniers on the importance of grit when learning mathematics.

Let’s Talk Teaching: Meet mathematician Shawn Desaulniers

  • Katie Willis
  • 13 November 2020
Cassandra Wilkinson, graduate student in the Department of Psychology and project lead on the study, holds one of the prototype headbands.

Portable headband with EEG technology may help diagnosis of stroke patients

  • Katie Willis
  • 12 November 2020
Kristen Newbury is lauded for her work building a prototype to improve app security for IBM Canada’s Centre for Advanced Studies.

Graduate student named Student of the Year by IBM Canada

  • Katie Willis
  • 12 November 2020
Professor Mirko van der Baan received the NSERC Synergy Award for his work on the Microseismic Industry Consortium.

Physicists acknowledged for industry partnership examining passive seismic data in Alberta

  • Katie Willis
  • 10 November 2020
Redox flow battery technology has promising applications for energy storage to complement renewable energy sources.

Powering the future: UAlberta researchers leading new charge in battery research

  • Andrew Lyle
  • 10 November 2020
The properties of an incredibly light and ultra-strong material called carbyne have only been theoretically predicted—until now. Synthesis of the material may actually be possible, according to new research from University of Alberta chemists.

Study provides proof-of-concept for synthesizing new ultra-strong, ultra-light material

  • Katie Willis
  • 9 November 2020
Meet Matthew Pietrosanu, statistical consultant in the Department of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences.

Celebrating staff: Matthew Pietrosanu

  • Katie Willis
  • 6 November 2020
A new interface includes thousands of photos for students to examine rock samples online.

Instructors develop interactive tool for studying microscopy online

  • Katie Willis
  • 5 November 2020
Chemist Lingzi Sang receives funding from the John R. Evans Leaders fund, through the Canada Foundation for Innovation.

Funding provides new infrastructure for next-generation solar cells and batteries

  • Katie Willis
  • 4 November 2020
New research shows that birds moderate food intake and activity level to manage their weight

New study suggests diet and exercise are for the birds

  • Katie Willis
  • 3 November 2020
Hear from award-winning instructor Frank Hegmann on teaching remotely in Fall 2020.

Action at a distance: Teaching condensed matter physics remotely

  • Katie Willis
  • 2 November 2020
A photo of the Centennial Centre for Interdisciplinary Science in the fall.

Calculated risk: How one UAlberta alumnus banks on mathematics

  • Andrew Lyle
  • 30 October 2020
An artist’s depiction of what the new species of oviraptorid may have looked like. The discovery of several juveniles of the same age in a group suggests social behaviour by the species.

Fingers to the bone: Dinosaur fossil fingers reveal new species

  • Andrew Lyle
  • 29 October 2020
Professor Robert Wolkow received one of the world’s premier nanotechnology awards for his contributions to the field.

Tiny technology, big recognition: Physicist honoured with international award for nanotechnology

  • Katie Willis
  • 28 October 2020
PhD student Daniel Durnford shares his physics expertise with students at Open House in 2019.

PhD student endeavours to shed light on the origins of dark matter

  • Katie Willis
  • 26 October 2020
Provincial funding boosts U of A research on autonomous systems to improve health, transportation and industry.

Provincial funding boosts U of A research on autonomous systems to improve health, transportation and industry

  • Michael Brown
  • 22 October 2020
University of Alberta computing scientist Omid Ardakanian is developing AI-powered software to manage heating and cooling systems in office buildings.

AI could offer big energy savings for office towers, says U of A researcher

  • Lewis Kelly
  • 22 October 2020
A chickadee rests on a branch with snow in the background.

Treading carefully: Chickadees slow to return to feeders while predators are nearby

  • Katie Willis
  • 21 October 2020
A cougar sits in a tree. A new study by University of Alberta biologists identifies three key factors for how cougars select habitats near roadways: traffic, topography, and daylight.

Cougars respond to roads based on human activity, topography, and time of day

  • Katie Willis
  • 19 October 2020
Alumna Nora Nahornick, analyst at the Office of the Parliamentary Budget Officer.

From classroom to government: One alumna’s journey

  • Andrew Lyle
  • 16 October 2020
hD student Daniel Robles is pictured here training a local volunteer on using wearable EEG technology.

Wearable EEG technology gives insight into child development in Malawi

  • Katie Willis
  • 15 October 2020
Students attend in-person chemistry labs during the COVID-19 pandemic, while observing additional lab safety rules, to practice hands-on skills.

Lab safety: In-person undergraduate chemistry labs supported by Gilead Sciences

  • Andrew Lyle
  • 14 October 2020
Albert Remus Rosana and Cassandra Wilkinson received $50,000 over the next two years to support their studies.

Two PhD students honoured with prestigious Dorothy J. Killam Memorial Graduate Prize

  • Katie Willis
  • 14 October 2020
This team of researchers, including graduate students from the University of Alberta’s Department of Computing Science, have developed a wearable bracelet that can detect signs of COVID-19.

Wearable device allows for real-time COVID-19 monitoring and contact tracing in extended care facilities

  • Katie Willis
  • 14 October 2020
Claire Scavuzzo, researcher in the Department of Psychology and course instructor of the new online course in science literacy.

UAlberta launches free online Science Literacy course

  • Andrew Lyle
  • 13 October 2020
Matthew Macauley, assistant professor in the Department of Chemistry and Canada Research Chair in Chemical Glycoimmunology, pictured on the University of Alberta campus.

Scientists develop new tools to study the immune system

  • Katie Willis
  • 9 October 2020
Artist's rendering of Gavialimimus almaghribensis, a newly discovered species of mosasaur that ruled the seas of what is now Morocco some 72 to 66 million years ago.

Paleontologists identify new species of mosasaur

  • Michael Brown
  • 7 October 2020
A sample of pebbly rock that U of A researchers took from an outcrop in Nunavut. The rock was found to contain both gold and diamonds—a rare combination similar to that found in the world's richest gold deposit in South Africa.

Diamonds found with gold in Canada’s Far North offer clues to Earth’s early history

  • Michael Brown
  • 7 October 2020
A professor in the University of Alberta’s Department of Psychology, Nicoladis is an expert in the fields of developmental psychology and language.

Let’s Talk Teaching: Meet psychology expert Elena Nicoladis

  • Katie Willis
  • 6 October 2020
Understanding the biology and evolution of honey bees has been the subject of Olav Rueppell’s research for nearly 20 years.

A hive of activity: New UAlberta researcher focuses on social evolution in honey bees

  • Katie Willis
  • 5 October 2020
Meet Jan Boulter, assistant chair (administration) in the Department of Psychology.

Celebrating staff: Jan Boulter

  • Katie Willis
  • 2 October 2020
A laptop displays data during a psychology experiment.

Experiential learning program helps UAlberta students dip a toe into the world of research

  • Katie Willis
  • 1 October 2020
Assistant Professor Joshua Evans explains the work of the Affordable Housing Solutions Lab in the latest Science Connects webinar.

Housing our most vulnerable: UAlberta researcher explores solutions to affordable housing challenges

  • Andrew Lyle
  • 30 September 2020
Colleen Lewis, assistant professor of computing science at the University of Illinois, delivered a talk to University of Alberta computing scientists on inclusive teaching practices.

Improving inclusivity and breaking barriers for students in computing science

  • Katie Willis
  • 29 September 2020
UAlberta researchers receive $1.4M in provincial funding to fight COVID-19.

UAlberta researchers receive $1.4M in provincial funding to fight COVID-19

  • Michael Brown
  • 28 September 2020
Iron oxide-apatite ore from one of the study areas at Iron Springs, Utah.

Iron in the fire: UAlberta researchers pinpoint how iron deposits form

  • Andrew Lyle
  • 21 September 2020
Anthony Singhal, chair of the Department of Psychology.

Message from the Chair - Psychology

  • Anthony Singhal
  • 21 September 2020
Professor and chair of the Department of Physics Mauricio Sacchi.

Message from the Chair - Physics

  • Mauricio Sacchi
  • 21 September 2020
Chair of the Department of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences Terry Gannon.

Message from the Chair - Mathematical and Statistical Sciences

  • Terry Gannon
  • 21 September 2020
Chair of the Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences Stephen Johnston.

Message from the Chair - Earth and Atmospheric Sciences

  • Stephen Johnston
  • 21 September 2020
Chair of the Department of Computing Science Mario Nascimento.

Message from the Chair - Computing Science

  • Mario Nascimento
  • 21 September 2020
Chair of the Department of Chemistry Rik Tykwisnki.

Message from the Chair - Chemistry

  • Rik Tykwinski
  • 21 September 2020
Chair of the Department of Biological Sciences David Coltman.

Message from the Chair - Biological Sciences

  • David Coltman
  • 21 September 2020
Clean-tech entrepreneurs get provincial funding to bring bright ideas to reality.

Clean-tech entrepreneurs get provincial funding to bring bright ideas to reality

  • News Staff
  • 18 September 2020
Sheref Mansy, professor in the Department of Chemistry, pictured outside his lab at the University of Alberta.

Smart cells: Chemists develop tool with potential to treat illness at the cellular level

  • Katie Willis
  • 18 September 2020
Konstantin von Gunten is pictured here conducting field work at the Cluff Lake uranium mine site.

Examining the fate of metals in Canadian mine sites

  • Katie Willis
  • 16 September 2020
Martha White, associate professor in the Department of Computing Science.

The next big thing: Killam Accelerator Research Award funds early-career computing scientist

  • Andrew Lyle
  • 11 September 2020
Chris Herd, professor in the Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences.

Let’s Talk Teaching: Meet planetary geology expert Chris Herd

  • Katie Willis
  • 9 September 2020
Celebrating Staff: Melissa Dhillon

Celebrating staff: Melissa Dhillon

  • Katie Willis
  • 9 September 2020
Diamonds from Kankan, Guinea, analyzed in this study The imperfections inside the diamond are small inclusions of a mineral called ferropericlase, which is from the lower mantle.

Uncovering new understanding of Earth’s carbon cycle

  • Andrew Lyle
  • 9 September 2020
Professor Ian Mann and Professor Todd Lowary have both been recognized for their scientific accomplishments with induction into the Royal Society of Canada.

Stand-out science: Two faculty members inducted into the Royal Society of Canada

  • Andrew Lyle
  • 8 September 2020
Antiviral used to treat cat coronavirus also works against SARS-CoV-2: U of A researchers.

Antiviral used to treat cat coronavirus also works against SARS-CoV-2: U of A researchers

  • News Staff
  • 4 September 2020
Students in a classroom on campus in Fall 2019, using EEG headsets in the lab.

A new frame of mind: EEG headsets transform learning for neuroscience students

  • Katie Willis
  • 2 September 2020
A female water flea under the microscope—roughly 5mm in length.

Common sunscreen ingredients prove dangerous for freshwater ecosystems

  • Katie Willis
  • 1 September 2020
University of Alberta graduate student Scott Melnyk made an intriguing fossil find during a graduate level course—and ended up identifying the fossilized tracks of a newly discovered wood-boring organism in a new study.

Graduate student names new trace fossil discovered during coursework

  • Andrew Lyle
  • 31 August 2020
Incoming Students' Union president Joel Agarwal is a Faculty of Science alumnus.

Student governance and success: Incoming Students’ Union president shares vision

  • Andrew Lyle
  • 28 August 2020
PhD student Alireza Saidi-Mehrabad is pictured here in doing field work, collecting samples used in the paper.

A climatic crystal ball: How changes in ancient soil microbes could predict the future of the Arctic

  • Katie Willis
  • 27 August 2020
First-year students pursue their dreams of studying science—and receive recognition with prestigious scholarships.

First-year students pursue their dreams of studying science—and receive recognition with prestigious scholarships

  • Andrew Lyle
  • 26 August 2020
A new study is examining nicotine withdrawal in Zebrafish, offering clues to human addiction.

Nicotine withdrawal in zebrafish offers clues to human addiction

  • News Staff
  • 21 August 2020
Science Summer Camp leaders, pictured with materials for the new online courses.

Meet the 2020 Science Summer Camp leaders

  • Andrew Lyle
  • 21 August 2020
Cows grazing in a pasture. A new study is examining the effects of livestock grazing on animal biodiversity.

Taking stock: How animal grazing impacts biodiversity

  • Andrew Lyle
  • 20 August 2020
UAlberta assistant professor Stephanie Green.

Funding provides new infrastructure for understanding our changing oceans

  • Katie Willis
  • 19 August 2020
Professor Michael Woodside, in the Department of Physics.

Researchers probe new drug target in novel coronavirus

  • Katie Willis
  • 17 August 2020
Science Summer Camp leader Dalton Ronan presents in one of the new online courses.

Meet the 2020 Science Summer Camp leaders

  • Andrew Lyle
  • 14 August 2020
Oleg Veryovka with wife Victoria Lohvin, a fellow University of Alberta alumna, on their recent trip to Athabasca glacier.

Discovering your dream job: Advice from alumnus Oleg Veryovka

  • Katie Willis
  • 13 August 2020
e West Basin of Quesnel Lake turned bright green in November 2014 when contaminants from the August 4, 2014 Mount Polley mine tailings spill were mixed to the surface during autumn turnover.

Contaminants from Mount Polley tailings spill continue to affect Quesnel Lake

  • Katie willis
  • 13 August 2020
Adopting a third-person, observer point of view when recalling your past activates different parts of your brain than recalling a memory seen through your own eyes, according to a new paper.

Seeing yourself in a new light: Recalling memories from a third-person perspective changes how our brain processes them

  • Katie Willis
  • 12 August 2020
A collection of insects. From a home insect-rearing kit to collecting insects in the comfort of your own backyard, the reimagined coursework and activities for Insect Biology (ENT 220) will provide students with unique, hands-on learning—even from a distance—in Fall 2020.

Diving into the wonderful world of insects—at a distance

  • Katie Willis
  • 11 August 2020
Graduate students Adrian Velazquez Osorio and Duong Bui.

Online opportunities: Graduate students share their experience with the transition to remote delivery

  • Andrew Lyle
  • 10 August 2020
Professor Tara McGee, pictured in Fort McMurray following the wildfires in 2016. McGee now steps into her new role as Associate Dean of Engagement and EDI.

Moving forward together: Welcoming Tara McGee, new Associate Dean of Engagement and EDI

  • Katie Willis
  • 7 August 2020
A picture of the biology labs at the University of Alberta campus.

Budding biologists build foundational skills—wherever they are

  • Katie Willis
  • 5 August 2020
Rock, paper, and scissor, pictured on a table.

The science of rock, paper, scissors

  • Andrew Lyle
  • 28 July 2020
A sample of the freshwater sponge Ephydatia muelleri, growing in a lake.

Freshwater sponges provide insight into human health and evolution

  • Katie Willis
  • 27 July 2020
A person browses Twitter from their smartphone.

Scientists build model for detecting early signs of depression in text

  • Katie Willis
  • 23 July 2020
Lindsay LeBlanc, associate professor in the Department of Physics and Canada Research Chair in Ultracold Gases for Quantum Simulation.

A quantum breakthrough: Transforming information from microwaves to optical light

  • Katie Willis
  • 22 July 2020
A snowshoe hare sits on the snow.

Snowshoe hare carcasses feed more then the usual suspects, study shows

  • Katie Willis
  • 21 July 2020
Elena Nicoladis, professor in the Department of Psychology, pictured on campus.

Prepare to be adaptable: Studying psychology in Fall 2020

  • Katie Willis
  • 20 July 2020
Terry Gannon, new chair of the Department of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences.

Listening to lead: Terry Gannon takes up the torch as Chair of the Department of Mathematical & Statistical Sciences

  • Jennifer Pascoe
  • 17 July 2020
This aerial photograph, taken by the Government of Alberta in 2018, shows the swathes of dead red trees cutting through the green of Jasper National Park.

Pine beetles successful no matter how far they roam—with devastating effects

  • Katie Willis
  • 16 July 2020
Aakankshya Kharel, VP (Services) of the Interdepartmental Science Students' Society.

Building community: How student groups are welcoming students in Fall 2020

  • News Staff
  • 16 July 2020
Damian Cirelli, instructor and laboratory coordinator in the University of Alberta’s Department of Biological Sciences.

A new opportunity: Studying botany during the pandemic

  • Katie Willis
  • 15 July 2020
A new sea sponge species, Desmacella, discovered by UAlberta scientists.

Scientists identify new species of sea sponge off the coast of British Columbia, Canada

  • Katie Willis
  • 15 July 2020
A pair of caribou bulls.

No evidence that predator control will save mountain caribou, study says

  • News Staff
  • 14 July 2020
Graduate student Mike Duvall is pictured here in southeastern Nepal during fieldwork in 2017.

New fault system discovered in Southeastern Nepal

  • Katie Willis
  • 13 July 2020
Lara Mahal, professor in the Department of Chemistry, Canada Excellence Research Chair in Glycomics, and Associate Director of Clinical Partnerships for GlycoNet, hosts a webinar on glycomics research.

Renewed funding for glycomics research aims to improve human health

  • Andrew Lyle
  • 10 July 2020
Award-winning instructor Karsten Loepelmann discusses distance learning—including how to change your behaviour—in Fall 2020.

Behaviour modification: Applying the principles of psychology to remote learning

  • Katie Willis
  • 9 July 2020
Learn about the incredible data coming from ice cores in the Canadian Arctic in a webinar with Alison Criscitiello, director of the Canadian Ice Core Lab.

Stories from the ice: Perspectives from new Canadian Arctic ice cores

  • Andrew Lyle
  • 8 July 2020
The Decima Robinson Support Centre, in the Department of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences.

Set up for success: Student support for statistics and calculus moves online

  • Katie Willis
  • 7 July 2020
A bear crosses a highway. A new study by Canadian ecologists is examining how grizzly bears learn to coexist with humans.

Coexisting with carnivores: Understanding how bears adjust to live with humans

  • Katie Willis
  • 6 July 2020
Tara McGee, professor in the Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences and incoming associate dean (of engagement and equity, diversity, and inclusivity).

UAlberta expert on national panel for improving disaster resilience in Canada

  • Katie Willis
  • 3 July 2020
Beavers, like the one pictured here, are making their homes on sites of industry activity.

Industry-made pits are beneficial for beavers and wolverines, study shows

  • Katie Willis
  • 2 July 2020
Nidhi Hegde, new associate professor in the University of Alberta’s Department of Computing Science.

Examining the ethics of AI: Welcoming Nidhi Hegde to the Faculty of Science

  • Katie Willis
  • 30 June 2020
Damian Collins, project director and professor in the Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, pictured by housing near the University of Alberta North Campus.

A human right: Research aims to build sustainable, resilient community housing in Canada

  • Katie Willis
  • 30 June 2020
Mathieu Dumberry, associate professor in the Department of Physics.

A magnetic mystery: UAlberta physicists explain decades-old puzzle of Earth’s magnetic field

  • Andrew Lyle
  • 29 June 2020
Assistant professor Adam Kashlak.

Teaching statistics in a brave new world

  • Katie Willis
  • 26 June 2020
University of Alberta professor Mark Lewis.

Mathematical biologist honoured for contributions to research and scholarship

  • Katie Willis
  • 26 June 2020
An aerial view of the University of Alberta campus.

Remote connectivity: Teaching immunology at a distance

  • Katie Willis
  • 25 June 2020
Melissa Roach explains how she'll be teaching ecology labs in Fall 2020 using a short animated video.

Bringing the lab home: Ecology instructor discusses plans for remote delivery in September

  • Katie Willis
  • 24 June 2020
Abhishek Narayan has received the Banting Fellowship to continue his research on ALS at the University of Alberta.

New funding allows ALS researcher to expand search for treatment

  • Katie Willis
  • 24 June 2020
University of Alberta professor and EAS 421 instructor John Waldron.

Under the surface: Studying geology and plate tectonics online

  • Katie Willis
  • 23 June 2020
Professor Michael Woodside, pictured in his lab on the University of Alberta campus.

New funding supports research on prion diseases

  • Katie Willis
  • 23 June 2020
Anna Phan, new assistant professor in the Department of Biological Sciences.

Understanding memory: Welcoming Anna Phan

  • Katie Willis
  • 22 June 2020
Heamanite-(Ce), a new mineral discovered inside a diamond, is named after Professor Larry Heaman.

Scientists name newly discovered mineral after UAlberta professor

  • Katie Willis
  • 19 June 2020
Student participants in the Science Mentor program, pictured on the University of Alberta campus.

Students supporting students in Fall 2020

  • Andrew Lyle
  • 19 June 2020
A past expedition of Girls on Ice Canada, featuring students on a glacier.

Dismantling barriers: Girls on Ice Canada takes expeditions online for summer 2020

  • Katie Willis
  • 18 June 2020
New assistant professor Jacob Berry, in the Department of Biological Sciences.

Understanding how we forget: Welcoming Jacob Berry

  • Katie Willis
  • 17 June 2020
Housing in Edmonton. The Affordable Housing Solutions Lab at the University of Alberta’s Faculty of Science will strive to create local affordable housing solutions.

New lab aims to expand affordable housing in Edmonton

  • Katie Willis
  • 16 June 2020
A parent pictured with a baby. New study examines urinary metabolome of healthy newborns to aid in diagnosis for sick infants.

Research helping to improve detection of disease in newborn babies

  • Katie Willis
  • 15 June 2020
Danielle Cattani, member of the graduating class of Spring 2020.

Celebrating the graduates of Spring 2020: Danielle Cattani

  • News Staff
  • 14 June 2020
Sana Bibi, member of the graduating class of Spring 2020.

Celebrating the graduates of Spring 2020: Sana Bibi

  • News Staff
  • 13 June 2020
Ioanis Nikolaidis, Acting Chair of the Department of Computing Science, shares a message of congratulations to Faculty of Science students on the culmination of their hard work and achievements.

Congratulations to the class of Spring 2020

  • Ioanis Nikolaidis
  • 12 June 2020
Farynna Loubich Facundo, member of the graduating class of Spring 2020.

Celebrating the graduates of Spring 2020: Farynna Loubich Facundo

  • 12 June 2020
Sarah Morin, member of the graduating class of Spring 2020.

Celebrating the graduates of Spring 2020: Sarah Morin

  • 12 June 2020
Jessica Wang, member of the Spring 2020 graduating class.

Celebrating the graduates of Spring 2020: Jessica Wang

  • 12 June 2020
lowered-flag-in-mourning.jpeg

Members of Faculty of Science community lost in Flight PS752 receive posthumous degrees

  • News Staff
  • 11 June 2020
Associate Professor James Harynuk in the Department of Chemistry.

Flipping the classroom: Teaching chemistry in September 2020

  • Katie Willis
  • 9 June 2020
A duo of stars in the cluster Terzan 5 are swapping between two unique states—a phenomenon that’s been observed only three times before, and one of particular interest to astronomers. Image credit: NASA/Chandra X-Ray Observatory

A cosmic Jekyll and Hyde

  • Andrew Lyle
  • 9 June 2020
Doha Anwar, member of the graduating class of Spring 2020.

Celebrating the graduates of Spring 2020: Doha Anwar

  • News Staff
  • 9 June 2020
Shruti Shah, member of the graduating class of Spring 2020.

Celebrating the graduates of Spring 2020: Shruti Shah

  • News Staff
  • 8 June 2020
Jonathan Backs, member of the graduating class of Spring 2020.

Celebrating the graduates of Spring 2020: Jonathan Backs

  • News Staff
  • 8 June 2020
A squirrel stands on a log in a forest. A new study shows that for squirrels, moving out early improves survivability.

Home for the holidays: How securing territory improves winter survival for squirrels

  • Andrew Lyle
  • 8 June 2020
Jordan Lovrod, member of the graduating class of Spring 2020.

Celebrating the graduates of Spring 2020: Jordan Lovrod

  • News Staff
  • 8 June 2020
Cody Good, member of the Spring 2020 graduating class.

Celebrating the graduates of Spring 2020: Cody Good

  • News Staff
  • 7 June 2020
Miranda Holt, member of the graduating class of Spring 2020.

Celebrating the graduates of Spring 2020: Miranda Holt

  • News Staff
  • 7 June 2020
Leah Auch, member of the Spring 2020 graduating class.

Celebrating the graduates of Spring 2020: Leah Auch

  • News Staff
  • 6 June 2020
Roshan Achal, member of the graduating class of Spring 2020.

Celebrating the graduates of Spring 2020: Roshan Achal

  • News Staff
  • 6 June 2020
Stephanie Rudnew, member of the Spring 2020 graduating class.

Celebrating the graduates of Spring 2020: Stephanie Rudnew

  • News Staff
  • 6 June 2020
Dustin McRorie, member of the graduating class of Spring 2020.

Celebrating the graduates of Spring 2020: Dustin McRorie

  • News Staff
  • 5 June 2020
Yekta Sharafaddin-Zadeh, member of the graduating class of Spring 2020.

Celebrating the graduates of Spring 2020: Yekta Sharafaddin-Zadeh

  • News Staff
  • 5 June 2020
Taleana Huff, one of the members of the graduating class of Spring 2020.

Celebrating the graduates of Spring 2020: Taleana Huff

  • News Staff
  • 4 June 2020
Lauren Guillette and Abram Hindle named the latest scientists-in-residence at local science centre

Community-minded scientists named science fellows at TELUS World of Science Edmonton

  • Katie Willis
  • 4 June 2020
Bryce Erickson, member of the Spring 2020 graduating class.

Celebrating the graduates of Spring 2020: Bryce Erickson

  • News Staff
  • 3 June 2020
The East African Rift is pictured here with Oldoinyo Langai Volcano in the background.

Significant carbon dioxide could be released by shifting continental plate in Eastern Africa

  • Katie Wiilis
  • 3 June 2020
Dean of Science Matina Kalcounis-Rueppell, pictured hosting a webinar.

The Fall 2020 experience

  • Jennifer Pascoe
  • 3 June 2020
Professor Lisa Stein, pictured in her lab at the University of Alberta.

Microbiology at a distance: Undergraduate learning in Fall 2020

  • 3 June 2020
University of Alberta paleontologist Gavin Bradley, pictured in the lab on campus.

Getting the dirt on dinosaurs with remote learning

  • Katie Willis
  • 3 June 2020
Professor Frank Marsiglio, pictured in the CCIS building on the University of Alberta campus.

Step into my digital office: Quantum mechanics online

  • Katie Willis
  • 3 June 2020
Karsten Sturmay, one of the members of the class of Spring 2020.

Celebrating the graduates of Spring 2020: Karsten Sturmay

  • News Staff
  • 2 June 2020
Erin St Jean, one of the members of the class of Spring 2020.

Celebrating the graduates of Spring 2020: Erin St Jean

  • News Staff
  • 2 June 2020
Jeffrey Gu (right) and Yunfeng Chen (left) are pictured here at a data collection site near Fort Mackay, Alberta.

New model shows how diamond-carrying rocks formed in Northern Alberta

  • Katie Willis
  • 2 June 2020
The University of Alberta crest.

Message from the Dean of Science to members of the Faculty of Science

  • Matina Kalcounis-Rueppell
  • 1 June 2020
Cara Fan is one of the graduates celebrating convocation on June 12.

Celebrating the graduates of Spring 2020: Cara Fan

  • News Staff
  • 1 June 2020
Sheldon Cannon is one of the members of the class of Spring 2020 celebrating convocation on June 12.

Celebrating the graduates of Spring 2020: Sheldon Cannon

  • News Staff
  • 1 June 2020
This paper-based sensor turns orange as it is exposed to carbon dioxide.

“A litmus paper for CO2:” Scientists develop paper-based sensors for carbon dioxide

  • Katie Willis
  • 1 June 2020
Corwin Sullivan, UAlberta paleontologist, pictured in the lab along with biological technologist Robin Sissons.

Piecing together picture of dinosaur distribution and evolution

  • Andrew Lyle
  • 29 May 2020
UAlberta scientist Stephanie Green, pictured in her lab on campus.

Federal government announces new Canada Research Chair in marine ecosystems

  • Katie Willis
  • 28 May 2020
Thermal fever scanning for all travellers in international airports, international train stations and cruise ship ports would help slow and reduce the spread of viral pandemics like COVID-19, according to a UAlberta expert.

OPINION: Virus expert outlines four strategies to help avoid the next pandemic

  • David Wishart
  • 28 May 2020
Graduate students in the University of Alberta’s Multimedia Master’s Program have built an interactive tool for understanding the COVID-19 pandemic.

Student-built dashboard gives insight into COVID-19 pandemic

  • Katie Willis
  • 27 May 2020
UAlberta computing scientist Eleni Stroulia, pictured in her office.

App promises to improve pain management in dementia patients

  • Katie Willis
  • 26 May 2020
A person wearing skates standing on ice.

Math on ice: The science behind figure skating

  • Katie Willis
  • 25 May 2020
ATEP students prepare to hold a math fair at Ermineskin Elementary School in Maskwacis.

A math fair in Maskwacis: Students share the fun side of learning

  • Andrew Lyle
  • 20 May 2020
Biophysicist Daniel Charlebois, pictured here in his lab at the University of Alberta.

Biophysicist launches drug resistance research program

  • Katie Willis
  • 19 May 2020
Transmission electron microscopic image of an isolate from the first U.S. case of COVID-19, formerly known as 2019-nCoV. The spherical viral particles, colorized blue, contain cross-section through the viral genome, seen as black dots.

Fighting back with precision health: New AI projects poised to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic

  • Katie Willis
  • 15 May 2020
Alison Criscitiello, director of the Canadian Ice Core Lab, and her team camped out on the Devon Ice Cap, where a new study is examining the pollution of CFC replacements.

CFC replacements are a source of persistent organic pollution in the Arctic

  • Katie Willis
  • 14 May 2020
Yellow diamonds, some with colourless cores like the one pictured here, are of interest to the gemstone industry.

Know your quarry: Study yields new insight in hunt for rare, valuable yellow diamonds

  • Katie Willis
  • 14 May 2020
Pictured is CIDER-Seq, a newly developed tool for sequencing circular and extrachromosomal circular DNA, in action.

Scientists develop tool to sequence circular DNA

  • Katie Willis
  • 13 May 2020
Eza waiting for her handler, Jeff Lunder, to initiate a search of a residential structure fire to check for any indication of ignitable liquid.

Dogs can detect traces of gasoline down to one billionth of a teaspoon

  • Katie Willis
  • 12 May 2020
Toby Spribille and an international team of researchers have led a new study examining the lichen of Alaskan rainforests.

Alaskan rainforests are a global lichen hotspot, new study shows

  • Katie Willis
  • 11 May 2020
Stephen Johnston, chair of the Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences, pictured during field school in 2019.

Message to alumni and friends from the Chair of the Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences

  • Stephen Johnston
  • 11 May 2020
Meet the organizing committee for the Virtual Physics Conference 2020, pictured here in VirBELA.

Graduate students organize first-ever virtual physics conference

  • Katie Willis
  • 7 May 2020
A fossilized tooth of Priosphenodon, a type of ancient reptile that evolved a special type of tooth enamel similar to that of mammals.

Ancient reptile had mammal-like tooth enamel, study shows

  • Katie Willis
  • 6 May 2020
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Innovation, industry, and bright ideas

  • Andrew Lyle
  • 5 May 2020
Lara Mahal, professor in the Department of Chemistry and Canada Excellence Research Chair (CERC) in glycomics.

Understanding the role of sugars in human health

  • Katie Willis
  • 5 May 2020
A male zebra finch constructs a nest.

Early experiences determine how birds build their first nest

  • Katie Willis
  • 5 May 2020
Alpine butterflies, such as the Rocky Mountain Apollo pictured here, will see negative long-term effects of climate change.

The butterfly effect: Climate change could cause decline of some alpine butterfly species

  • Katie Willis
  • 4 May 2020
Pictured are three Biological Sciences graduate student alumni visiting Michael’s restoration project in Larch Park. From left to right are Michael Clark, Gordon McNickle, and Phil DeWitt. This picture was taken in March 2020, soon before Michael's passing in April.

In Memoriam: Michael Clark (BSc 2007, MSc 2010)

  • JC Cahill
  • 1 May 2020
A new study by University of Alberta biologists is examining the role of climate change on the migration and reproduction of caribou in the Canadian Arctic.

Caribou may be adjusting to earlier spring, study shows

  • Katie Willis
  • 30 April 2020
This two-billion-year-old shungite records evidence for balmy, oxygen-rich conditions on the early Earth.

Ancient rocks show high oxygen levels on Earth 2 billion years ago

  • Katie Willis
  • 29 April 2020
Michael Woodside, professor in the Department of Physics, pictured in the lab at the University of Alberta.

Scientist searches for drug to prevent novel coronavirus from replicating

  • Katie Willis
  • 27 April 2020
Student-generated map visualizes travel restrictions of COVID-19 in Northern Canada.

Student-generated map visualizes travel restrictions of COVID-19 in Northern Canada

  • Andrew Lyle
  • 24 April 2020
Pierre Boulanger, professor in the Department of Computing Science and Cisco Research Chair in Healthcare Solutions, on the UAlberta campus.

Virtual clinic has potential to help flatten the curve of COVID-19

  • Katie Willis
  • 21 April 2020
Stan Boutin with graduate student Jacob Seguin in the Yukon, collecting snowshoe hare data as part of the Kluane Lake Project.

The science must go on: Sharing datasets allows studies to continue

  • Katie Willis
  • 16 April 2020
An Edmonton company searches for antiviral compounds to treat COVID-19.

Edmonton company searches for antiviral compounds to treat COVID-19

  • Katie Willis
  • 14 April 2020
Covidmapper captures data from around the world on the progression and severity of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Scientist develops interactive tool for mapping COVID-19

  • Katie Willis
  • 7 April 2020
Some of the Faculty of Science community, pictured here at the 2019 Celebration of Excellence. This month, we celebrate the efforts of all our community in rising to the challenges of COVID-19.

Celebrating staff across the Faculty of Science

  • News Staff
  • 3 April 2020
Biochemist Joanne Lemieux is working with U of A colleagues to find out whether a compound known to cure a deadly coronavirus-caused disease in cats might also work against COVID-19 in humans.

Antiviral used to treat cat coronavirus could hold key to COVID-19: UAlberta researchers

  • News Staff
  • 1 April 2020
Faculty from the Department of Chemistry gather in a lab, producing hand sanitizer to donate to the community.

UAlberta chemists creating hand sanitizer on campus

  • Andrew Lyle
  • 27 March 2020
Federal funding infusion of $540,000 launches next stage of powerful industry partnership.

Using machine learning to help industry predict disasters before they happen

  • Katie Willis
  • 10 March 2020
A group of musicians playing violin.

Learning to play music may improve your memory

  • Katie Willis
  • 9 March 2020
Students pictured on the UAlberta campus.

A seat at the bench: Building diversity and representation in physics

  • Katie Willis
  • 8 March 2020
Lisa Budney, pictured outside the Earth Sciences Building on the University of Alberta campus.

Celebrating staff: Meet Lisa Budney

  • Katie Willis
  • 5 March 2020
New professor Zach Hall.

Minds and motion: Welcoming Zach Hall

  • Andrew Lyle
  • 28 February 2020
A woman shops for fruit in a supermarket.

One smart apple: Does consuming fruit during pregnancy improve cognition in babies?

  • Andrew Lyle
  • 27 February 2020
Researcher Linglong Kong, pictured on the UAlberta campus.

Using AI to combat gender and ethnic bias in the job market

  • Katie Willis
  • 26 February 2020
The NameExoWorlds global competition allowed any country in the world to give a popular name to a selected exoplanet and its host star—one of which is depicted here in an artist's rendering.

Star and exoplanet named in Cree following national naming contest

  • Andrew Lyle
  • 26 February 2020
Slot machines in a casino. A new study by UAlberta scientists is examining the role sound and visual effects play in gambling.

How sound and visual effects on slot machines increase the allure of gambling

  • Katie Willis
  • 25 February 2020
A student-led speaker series is welcoming innovative biomedical engineer Molly Shoichet, pictured, to UAlberta.

Student-led Margaret-Ann Armour Lecture Series returns in 2020

  • Katie Willis
  • 21 February 2020
Academic All-Canadian and Pandas starting goalkeeper Ashley Turner makes a save in a game of soccer.

Keeping an eye on the goal

  • Andrew Lyle
  • 21 February 2020
This artist's concept depicts NASA's Mars 2020 rover exploring Mars. Image Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech

To the red planet and back: UAlberta scientist lands spot on NASA Mars 2020 rover mission

  • Katie Willis
  • 20 February 2020
UAlberta chemist Frederick West, pictured outside on the UAlberta campus.

The building blocks of healthier life—and award-winning science

  • Andrew Lyle
  • 14 February 2020
A trophy in the shape of the Bitcoin logo stands before financial data on a monitor.

Faster and greener: Reducing the carbon footprint of Bitcoin mining

  • Andrew Lyle
  • 13 February 2020
One of several well-preserved marine fossils unearthed in Southern Italy.

Paleontologists discover treasure trove of fossils in Italy

  • Katie Willis
  • 12 February 2020
A hydroelectric plant in James Bay. A new study by UAlberta scientists is examining the surprising impact of hydroelectric regulation on Hudson Bay.

Electrical and ocean currents: New study finds surprising seasonal changes in Hudson Bay

  • Andrew Lyle
  • 11 February 2020
A wild elk in Southern Alberta.

Herd immunity: Disease transmission from wildlife to livestock

  • Katie Willis
  • 10 February 2020
Two University of Alberta students recognized in 2020 Computing Research Association awards.

Celebrating outstanding undergraduate research

  • Andrew Lyle
  • 7 February 2020
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Federal funding infusion supports health-focused research

  • Katie Willis
  • 6 February 2020
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Celebrating staff: Meet Margie Ray

  • Katie Willis
  • 4 February 2020
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Code-breaking outside the classroom

  • Andrew Lyle
  • 27 January 2020
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Exploring the impact of wildfire smoke in Western Canada

  • Andrew Lyle
  • 23 January 2020
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What to watch for in the night skies of 2020

  • Bev Betkowski
  • 21 January 2020
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Mourning the loss of four members of our Faculty of Science community

  • News Staff
  • 11 January 2020
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Celebrating staff: Meet Stephanie Gillis

  • Katie Willis
  • 8 January 2020
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Research defines meaningful activity for people with Alzheimer's disease

  • News Staff
  • 7 January 2020
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Ancient tree stump found in Edmonton's river valley

  • Katie Willis
  • 2 January 2020