All posts by: Sarah Hansen, M.S. '15


UMBC biologists discuss human health applications of studying plants’ circadian rhythms in The Conversation

Improper circadian clock function has already been linked to illnesses from diabetes to depression in humans. Plant science could grow our understanding. “As researchers continue to untangle more about how these clocks work—including how they influence interactions between hosts and their invading pathogens and pests—new forms of specially-timed precision medicine could be on the horizon,” write Lu and Wiratan. Continue Reading UMBC biologists discuss human health applications of studying plants’ circadian rhythms in The Conversation

Philip Graff ’08 named Outstanding Young Scientist by Maryland Science Center

Throughout his career, Philip Graff ’08, mathematics and physics, has conducted research at Cambridge University on a prestigious Gates Cambridge Scholarship, developed an algorithm that enabled experiments confirming the existence of gravitational waves, and worked to improve cybersecurity measures for the U.S. armed forces and Department of Homeland Security. This fall, the Maryland Science Center named Graff their 2017 Outstanding Young Scientist – Non-academic Track. At a ceremony held November 15, the center honored two scientists and two engineers, including UMBC’s Lee Blaney, associate professor of chemical, biochemical, and environmental engineering. Researchers younger than 35 in academia and younger than… Continue Reading Philip Graff ’08 named Outstanding Young Scientist by Maryland Science Center

20th Undergraduate Research Symposium shines a light on students’ diverse contributions to science

On October 14, more than 300 students from across the East Coast descended on campus to share their research with each other, participate in workshops, and learn about UMBC. The event celebrated the diversity among young scientists and the potential for their work to have a positive impact on the world. Continue Reading 20th Undergraduate Research Symposium shines a light on students’ diverse contributions to science

UMBC scientists measure plant productivity from space, with applications from farming to forest conservation

“We’re laying the groundwork for developing ways of monitoring vegetation,” says Fred Huemmrich. His and Petya Campbell’s new research uses images captured by instruments on the international space station to reveal global photosynthesis rates in unprecedented detail. Continue Reading UMBC scientists measure plant productivity from space, with applications from farming to forest conservation

GRIT-X talks showcase experiences of outstanding faculty and alumni “from outer space to inner space”

Nine distinguished faculty and alumni shared their stories at GRIT-X, a TED talk-style event during UMBC’s Homecoming that took listeners “from outer space to inner space, from a makerspace to the classroom, from black holes in the universe to a pacemaker for the brain.” Continue Reading GRIT-X talks showcase experiences of outstanding faculty and alumni “from outer space to inner space”

Noemi Petra first UMBC graduate to receive NSF Career Award in Mathematics

Noemi Petra, Ph.D. ’10, M.S. ’07, applied mathematics, has always been a hard worker. In her dissertation research at UMBC, she forayed into engineering applications, mathematical theory, and computational techniques to answer questions about sensors that detect trace gases, such as carbon monoxide. “Most math students delve into one of these three general areas of research during their Ph.D.,” explains one of her mentors, John Zweck, former UMBC faculty member in mathematics and statistics. Petra tackled all three. Petra’s grit has paid off. The National Science Foundation has recognized her ongoing research success with the NSF Career Award, intended to… Continue Reading Noemi Petra first UMBC graduate to receive NSF Career Award in Mathematics

UMBC participates in national study on Ph.D. career pathways at pivotal moment for new grads

“The assumption that the Ph.D. is primarily a pathway to the professoriate is just not the case,” says Janet Rutledge, dean of the Graduate School. “We’re hoping that by being part of this study, we will determine the best ways to focus our time and our resources to most effectively guide our students.” Continue Reading UMBC participates in national study on Ph.D. career pathways at pivotal moment for new grads

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