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


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

UMBC researchers win USDA grants to improve safety and efficiency of fish farming industry

Yonathan Zohar, professor and chair of marine biotechnology, explains that the two UMBC teams’ research “makes the point of how you can use advanced approaches and strategies of biotechnology to open some of the major bottlenecks in the aquaculture industry.” Continue Reading UMBC researchers win USDA grants to improve safety and efficiency of fish farming industry

UMBC marine biologist Colleen Burge works to save world’s oysters from deadly herpes virus

“It may only be a matter of time until [deadly strains of the herpes virus] reach U.S. coastal bays,” Colleen Burge writes. That means finding a way to prevent massive oyster die-offs, which have already happened in other parts of the world, is important to save the species—and Burge is on the task. Continue Reading UMBC marine biologist Colleen Burge works to save world’s oysters from deadly herpes virus

UMBC to build on success in shrinking carbon footprint through updated Climate Action Plan

“Although UMBC has made significant progress in reducing its carbon footprint, it is clear that our carbon neutrality goals need to be more aggressive,” says Lenn Caron. A new climate action plan will define those goals with input from students, faculty, and staff. Continue Reading UMBC to build on success in shrinking carbon footprint through updated Climate Action Plan

UMBC dedicates new Earth and Space Institute, building on decades of NASA collaboration

NASA has served as “a role model and inspirational force,” that has led people to reach for the stars for generations, shares Dean Bill LaCourse. “The Earth and Space Institute is our opportunity to reach for new heights,” he says. “To take that chance in the name of science, commitment, passion, and basic human curiosity.” Continue Reading UMBC dedicates new Earth and Space Institute, building on decades of NASA collaboration

Belay Demoz, director of JCET and leading climate scientist, elected as a fellow of the American Meteorological Society

Belay Demoz enjoys directing JCET because of its dual educational and scientific focus. “I’ve always believed in the goal of JCET to connect scientists and students,” he shares, noting that it’s been especially important to him to increase these opportunities for students from underrepresented groups. Continue Reading Belay Demoz, director of JCET and leading climate scientist, elected as a fellow of the American Meteorological Society

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