All Academics

Global warming likely to be amplified by slow changes to Earth systems

The sensitivity of Earth's temperature to increases in carbon dioxide in the atmosphere may be greater than has been expected on the basis of climate models.

Three UCSC professors elected 2009 AAAS Fellows

Three professors at the University of California, Santa Cruz, have been awarded the distinction of AAAS Fellow by the American Association for the Advancement of Science.

Supernova explosions stay in shape

Supernova remnants--the debris from exploded stars--retain information about how their progenitor stars exploded.

Pre-eruption earthquakes offer clues to volcano forecasters

Pre-eruption earthquakes give scientists an opportunity to study the tumult beneath a volcano and may help them improve the accuracy of eruption forecasts.

Soap opera in the marsh: Coots foil nest invaders, reject impostors

Coots have evolved a remarkable set of cognitive abilities to thwart other coots that lay eggs in their neighbors' nests.

UCSC filmmaker Tajima-Peña receives prestigious United States Artists fellowship

Filmmaker Renée Tajima-Peña has been named a USA Fellow for 2009 by United States Artists.

Icy moons of Saturn and Jupiter may have conditions needed for life

Evidence from recent NASA missions suggests that conditions necessary for life may exist on the icy satellites of Saturn and Jupiter, according to planetary scientist Francis Nimmo.

New planet discoveries suggest low-mass planets are common around nearby stars

An international team of planet hunters has discovered as many as six low-mass planets around two nearby Sun-like stars.

Shakespeare Santa Cruz announces 2010 season lineup

The 2010 Shakespeare Santa Cruz season will feature a slate of three plays that explore the theme of "love" in all of its ramifications--from first blush, to wrenching jealousy, to familial dysfunction of the highest order.

Cholera bacteria show adaptability to changing environments

Understanding the behavior of cholera bacteria between epidemics and how the pathogen moves between different environments could help prevent outbreaks.

UCSC philosophy students win regionals in national Ethics Bowl competition

A team of UCSC philosophy students won first place this past weekend at the California Regional Ethics Bowl Tournament held in Chico, qualifying them to compete in the National Ethics competition on March 4 in Cincinnati, Ohio.

Massaro announces iPhone app for animated tutor

Dominic Massaro has created an iPhone application for Baldi®, a computer-animated tutor that facilitates speech.

Sophomore Gemma Givens will attend U.N. climate change conference in Copenhagen

Sophomore Gemma Givens will attend the United Nations international conference on climate change in December.

Students embrace UCSC's Program in Community and Agroecology

Thanksgiving comes only once a year, but a group of UCSC students gathers to share a meal at least three times a week as part of a unique program.

Psych undergrad organizes Sunshine Villa art show to benefit food bank

Psychology major Talia Gonzalez organized an art sale at Sunshine Villa that raised $550 for Second Harvest Food Bank.

Student protest impacts campus transportation

Approximately 300 students gathered at noon on Wednesday, November 18, at Quarry Plaza to protest the student fee proposal currently before the UC Board of Regents.

Chemist Jin Zhang elected Fellow of American Physical Society

Jin Zhang, professor of chemistry and biochemistry, has been elected a Fellow of the American Physical Society in recognition of his outstanding contributions to physics.

Faye Crosby awarded UC Merced's Spendlove Prize in Social Justice, Diplomacy and Tolerance

Faye J. Crosby is the recipient of this year's Alice and Clifford Spendlove Prize in Social Justice, Diplomacy and Tolerance.

Economics web site ranks UCSC sixth in the world for research on international finance

The Economics Department was ranked sixth in the world for research in international finance, according to Research Papers in Economics (RePEc).

New search technique for images and videos has broad applications

Engineers have developed a new approach to a fundamental problem in computer vision: how to program a computer to recognize or categorize what it "sees" in an image or video.

Faculty join systemwide effort focused on global health

UCSC faculty join new UC Global Health Institute.

Studies show marine reserves are an effective tool for managing fisheries

Studies conducted in California and elsewhere provide support for the use of marine reserves as a tool for managing fisheries and protecting marine habitats.

Chemistry professor Phil Crews receives outstanding faculty award

Phillip Crews, professor of chemistry and biochemistry, has received the 2008-09 Outstanding Faculty Award from the Division of Physical and Biological Sciences.

Cosmology lectures by Joel Primack and Nancy Abrams now on YouTube

Joel Primack, professor of physics, and his wife Nancy Abrams gave a series of four public lectures at Yale University in October, and videos of those talks are now available on YouTube.

Nobuhiko Kobayashi named co-director of Advanced Studies Laboratory

Nobuhiko Kobayashi, associate professor of electrical engineering, has been appointed co-director of the Advanced Studies Laboratory, a collaborative research facility jointly administered by UCSC and the NASA Ames Research Center.

History professor to establish new program in Ancient Studies at UCSC

History professor Charles Hedrick will use his recent UC Presidential Chair appointment to establish and develop a new program in Ancient Studies on the UCSC campus.

Scientists propose a "genome zoo" of 10,000 vertebrate species

In the most comprehensive study of animal evolution ever attempted, an international consortium of scientists plans to assemble a collection of DNA sequences for 10,000 vertebrate species.

Legendary "man-eating" lions of Tsavo likely ate about 35 people--not 135, say scientists

The notorious "man-eating lions of Tsavo" that terrorized a railroad camp in Kenya in 1898 likely consumed about 35 people--far fewer than popular estimates.

Lead poisoning threatens a vulnerable albatross population

Populations of Laysan albatross face severe declines due to widespread lead poisoning of chicks unless comprehensive cleanup measures gain momentum, according to a recent study.

Archaeology course unlocks "silent history" of the slave trade in West Africa

Anthropologist J. Cameron Monroe led UCSC's first undergraduate archaeological expedition to Benin this past summer.

Loik leads international collaboration on precipitation research

Michael Loik of environmental studies is the lead scientist on an international study of precipitation that's part of Biosphere 2.

Researchers to study hidden lakes beneath West Antarctic ice sheet

UCSC researchers will drill through a half-mile of ice to penetrate subglacial Lake Whillans and study hidden processes that govern the dynamics of the West Antarctic ice sheet.

Alum Sol Lipman popularizes 12-second "video tweets"

Alum Sol Lipman launched the popular 12mail app for iPhone, making it easier than ever to share short video clips on Facebook and Twitter.

UC Santa Cruz to offer new Ph.D program in Film and Digital Media

UCSC announces a new graduate program leading to a Ph.D. in Film and Digital Media.

Popular Science taps UCSC anthropologist Nathaniel Dominy for "Brilliant 10" issue

<i>Popular Science</i> names Nathaniel J. Dominy one of this year's "Brilliant 10" young scientists and researchers.

Nanopore project wins $1.1 million NIH grant

NHGRI has awarded a $1.1 million grant to support work at UCSC on nanopore technology for analyzing DNA.

UC Santa Cruz announces Shakespeare Santa Cruz will continue in 2010 with 29th season

UC Santa Cruz announced today that Shakespeare Santa Cruz (SSC)-the university's nationally renowned theater company in residence at the campus-will continue in 2010 to present its annual season.

Theater Arts professor Mark Franko to moderate panel on choreographing human rights issues at Lincoln Center

UCSC Theater Arts professor Mark Franko will moderate a roundtable discussion titled "Rights to Move: Choreographing the Human Rights Struggle," at Lincoln Center on October 10

Del Mar screens award-winning documentary by Renee Tajima-Peña on Oct. 19

The award-winning documentary Calavera Highway, produced and directed by Renee Tajima-Peña, will screen on Monday, October 19, at 7 p.m. at the Del Mar Theater in downtown Santa Cruz.

Reminder: Sidhartha Maitra Memorial Lecture on Sunday, Oct. 18

Tickets are available for the Ninth Annual Sidhartha Maitra Memorial Lecture, featuring journalist Edward Luce, on Oct. 18.

An interview with engineering dean Arthur Ramirez

Art Ramirez describes the qualities that make the Baskin School of Engineering uniquely positioned to contribute to the technologies of the 21st century.

UCSC arts and science faculty collaborate for exhibition at Sesnon Gallery

"Full Disclosure"--an exhibition opening on October 7 at UCSC's Sesnon Gallery-is built upon the idea of "failure" as a path to learning.

Antarctic expedition studies survival strategies of Weddell seals

Eight years after her last major expedition to Antarctica, biologist Terrie Williams is back on the ice.

UCSC bioinformatics experts are partners in national cancer genetics project

UCSC researchers will establish a Cancer Genome Data Analysis Center as part of The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), a $275 million collaborative project led by NIH.

Five faculty members win 2009 NSF CAREER awards

Five UCSC faculty members have won NSF CAREER awards in 2009.

Journalist Edward Luce to discuss India and global warming on October 18 at UCSC

Journalist Edward Luce will discuss India and climate change during the Ninth Annual Sidhartha Maitra Memorial Lecture on October 18.

UC Santa Cruz receives $615,000 grant to digitize Grateful Dead Archive

UC Santa Cruz has received a major grant to help digitize the Grateful Dead Archive at the University Library.

3rd annual UCSC 'Founders Day' gala dinner at Cocoanut Grove to honor five exceptional individuals

UCSC will host its third annual Founders Day gala dinner at the Cocoanut Grove on Friday, October 23.

Academic program for community college students wins extended NIH funding

A UCSC program that provides an academic bridge for community college students has received a $1.1 million grant from the NIH.

Haussler and Kent honored by American Society of Human Genetics

The American Society of Human Genetics (ASHG) has honored two UCSC researchers with the 2009 Curt Stern Award.

AIDS vaccine expert encouraged by promising results from clinical trial

Phillip Berman said he is encouraged by promising results from a large clinical trial of an AIDS vaccine regimen.

Fundraising campaign for apprenticeship housing succeeds

The Grow a Farmer campaign to raise funds for permanent apprenticeship housing at the UCSC Farm was a success.

Cooper joins UN group's discussion of Muslim youth in Europe

Psychology professor joins UN-sponsored symposium on Muslim youth in Europe.

Award-winning novelist coming to UCSC on October 7

The UCSC Center for Labor Studies and the Living Writers Series will join together to present a reading by award-winning novelist Monique Truong, Wednesday, October 7, at 7 p.m. in the Humanities Lecture Hall

Lick Observatory honors Kenneth and Gloria Levy with inaugural James Lick Award

Kenneth and Gloria Levy will receive the James Lick Award in recognition of their generous support for the Automated Planet Finder telescope.

UCSC lecturer wins award for innovation in teaching Spanish

Spanish Language lecturer María Victoria González Paganihas has been awarded the IV Cristóbal de Villalón Award for "Innovation in Teaching Spanish as a Foreign Language."

$3.5 million NIH grant supports AIDS vaccine research

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) has awarded a $3.5 million grant for AIDS vaccine research at UCSC.

Genome Sequencing Center offers state-of-the-art sequencing services

The UCSC Genome Sequencing Center is now available to accept samples from investigators at other academic institutions as well as regional biotechnology companies.

Lick Observatory celebrates 50th anniversary of Shane Telescope

For 50 years, the 3-meter Shane Telescope has helped keep Lick Observatory at the forefront of modern astronomy.

New poll by UCSC professor reveals declining support for the death penalty

In California, support for the death penalty has eroded significantly since 1989, according to a new public-opinion poll by psychology professor Craig Haney.

Art professor to stage performance art wedding at 2009 Venice Biennale

UCSC art professor and multimedia artist Elizabeth Stephens will "marry the ocean" with fellow artist-bride Annie Sprinkle in a performance art wedding at the 53rd Venice Biennale on August 28.

IMS director Gary Griggs and alumna Julie Packard named 2009 California Coastal Heroes

<i>Sunset</i> magazine and the California Coastal Commission have named Gary Griggs and Julie Packard among their 2009 California Coastal Heroes.

Composer donates score of acclaimed Dead-inspired symphony to UCSC Library's Grateful Dead Archive

This summer, renowned conductor Marin Alsop brought orchestral music inspired by the Grateful Dead to the 2009 Cabrillo Music Festival as a tribute to the band's archive being housed at UCSC.

UCSC in Sierra magazine's top 10 list of nation's greenest colleges

UC Santa Cruz has placed seventh in Sierra magazine's third annual "honor roll" of the top 10 greenest colleges in the nation.

Judges cite Haney's testimony in landmark prison overcrowding ruling

A recent landmark ruling by a three-judge panel cited analysis by psychology professor Craig Haney.

Computer scientist Michael Mateas named to MacArthur Foundation Chair

Computer scientist Michael Mateas, named to the MacArthur Foundation Chair at UCSC, aims to radically expand the expressive power of computer games.

Fermi results featured on cover of Science

UCSC physicists and astronomers are coauthors of three major papers reporting scientific results from Fermi in the August 14 issue of <i>Science</i>.

Variability of type 1a supernovae has implications for dark energy studies

A new study reveals sources of variability in type 1a supernovae that could affect the precision of cosmic distance measurements.

Astrophysicist establishes John Bahcall Award for top Mexican physics student

One of the top physics students in Mexico is spending this summer studying astrophysics at UCSC as the first winner of the John Bahcall Award.

Artificial retina project wins R&D 100 Award

<i>R&D</i> magazine has awarded an <i>R&D</i> 100 Award to the Artificial Retina Project, recognizing it as one of the most innovative ideas of the year.

One year later, campus-community relations 'fundamentally changed' by landmark agreement

Every time Santa Cruz City Councilman Ryan Coonerty fields a call from another college town mired in conflict with its local campus, he is reminded of how far Santa Cruz has come in its relations with UC Santa Cruz.

Shakespeare Santa Cruz summer festival opens July 24

Shakespeare Santa Cruz (SSC) will explore the always relevant and highly entertaining themes of power, politics, and trust in its 28th season, beginning on Friday, July 24.

New Campus Food Guide available

The fourth edition of the Campus Food Guide offers the campus community a wealth of information on food-related issues.

UC astronomer cheers Mauna Kea selection as site for Thirty-Meter Telescope

A leading astronomer at UC Santa Cruz hailed the selection of Mauna Kea in Hawaii as the site for construction of the Thirty-Meter Telescope.

UC researchers awarded $2.3M to study vocabulary assessment tool

A team of UC researchers creates a new approach to assessing student vocabulary.

UCSC scores high in competition for UC multi-campus research funding

Four research programs headquartered at UC Santa Cruz have received awards in the 2009 UC Multi-Campus Research Programs and Initiatives Competition (MRPI).

Apollo 11 anniversary: Lick Observatory scientist recalls experiment 40 years ago

Forty years ago, Apollo 11 astronauts set a device on the surface of the moon to help Lick Observatory researchers calculate the distance to earth.

Astrophysicist Enrico Ramirez-Ruiz wins prestigious NSF CAREER Award

Enrico Ramirez-Ruiz, assistant professor of astronomy and astrophysics, has won a prestigious Faculty Early Career Development award from the National Science Foundation.

Don Chamberlin to receive 2009 Fellow Award from Computer History Museum

Computer scientist Don Chamberlin has been chosen to receive a 2009 Fellow Award from the Computer History Museum.

MBARI president Marcia McNutt to be nominated as director of U.S. Geological Survey

Marcia McNutt, professor of Earth and planetary sciences at UCSC, will be nominated as director of the U.S. Geological Survey.

U.S. research vessel enroute to Bering Sea for climate change investigations

Preparations are under way for an international marine research expedition to investigate the role of the Bering Sea in climate change.

Aida Hurtado delivers keynote address to new citizens

Aida Hurtado encourages new citizens to view "citizenship as a form of empowerment."

NASA's Fermi Telescope reveals a population of radio-quiet gamma-ray pulsars

UCSC physicists have discovered a new class of pulsars using NASA's Fermi Gamma-ray Space Telescope.

UCSC anthropologist Adrienne Zihlman honored for pioneering research on human evolution

Adrienne Zihlman is honored for pioneering research on human evolution.

History professor Dana Frank contributes op-ed to San Francisco Chronicle about crisis in Honduras

Professor of history Dana Frank has contributed an op-ed piece titled "Obama's Honduran Test" to today's San Francisco Chronicle about Sunday's coup in Honduras.

Integrated optical trap holds particles for on-chip analysis

A new type of optical particle trap can be used to manipulate bacteria, viruses and other particles on a chip as part of an integrated optofluidic platform.

New major in physics education approved

UCSC has approved a new major in physics education to prepare students for California teaching credentials and teaching careers in science and mathematics at the high school level.

Alumna chef Deborah Madison's new book reveals secrets of solo eating

In her latest book, alumna chef Deborah Madison turns her attention to the secret delights of solo diners.

Renowned Indian musician and former UCSC Distinguished Adjunct Professor Ali Akbar Khan dies at 87

Legendary Indian musician and former UC Santa Cruz Distinguished Adjunct Professor Ali Akbar Khan died on June 18 at his home in San Anselmo, CA. He was 87.

Novel light-sensitive compounds show promise for cancer therapy

Novel compounds show promise for photodynamic cancer therapy, which uses light-activated drugs to kill tumor cells.

Top physicists gather at UCSC to honor Tom Banks and Willy Fischler

Top physicists will gather at UCSC on June 15 and 16 for a symposium in honor of Thomas Banks, professor of physics at UCSC, and Willy Fischler, professor of physics at the University of Texas, Austin.

Health sciences grad awarded Sutter scholarship for medical school

Graduating senior Brittany Guest will receive a $10,000 scholarship to help pay for medical school fees and tuition.

New technique improves estimates of pulsar ages

Astronomers have developed a new technique to determine the ages of millisecond pulsars, the fastest-spinning stars in the universe.

Groundwater fingered as a source of methylmercury in coastal waters

For the first time, scientists have detected a highly toxic form of mercury in groundwater flows at two coastal sites in California.

Graduate student documentaries featured during reception and screenings on June 12-13

Graduate students in Social Documentation present the Third Annual Master's Thesis Exhibition June 12-13.

Volunteers keep watch as urban falcons embark on first flights

As young peregrine falcons prepare to take their first flights in San Francisco and San Jose, volunteers watch from sidewalks and rooftops to help the birds if they get into trouble.

30 Grads in 30 Days: Kashima Samuels

B.A., psychology

First-ever UC Santa Cruz Business Plan Competition generates winning ideas

The first-ever UCSC Business Plan Competition showcased winning ideas.

Undergrad chosen for prestigious research internship in Japan

UCSC undergraduate Dominic Papia has been selected for a prestigious summer internship at one of Japan's premier research centers.

UCSC grad student to present digital arts project on forced marriage at Santa Cruz museum

Nada Miljkovic knows a lot about forced marriages. In fact, she's a child of one. That experience has led to a thesis project titled "Balkan Song," a video installation, performance piece, and social networking site that will be featured at the Santa Cruz

Students experience the power of the written word

This spring, students in Sarah Rabkin's <i>Environmental Action Through Writing</i> class tried their hand at producing works powerful enough to change hearts and minds.

It's all in the family when children of alumni choose UCSC

Last spring, when their daughter was deciding where to go to college, UCSC graduates Moira and Dency Nelson tried to play it cool and hide their Banana Slug pride. They wanted their daughter, Charlie, to make her own decision.

UCSC music grad student named winner in 57th Annual BMI Student Composer Awards

UCSC graduate student in music Noah Gideon Meites is one of nine young classical composers who have been named winners in the 57th Annual BMI Student Composer Awards.

Kuumbwa Jazz Center launches new half price series for students

Beginning on June 11, the internationally recognized Kuumbwa Jazz Center in downtown Santa Cruz will begin a new monthly half-price series for students.

30 Grads in 30 Days: Eric Gonzalez

B.A., business management economics

30 Grads in 30 Days: Sequilla Lee

B.A., sociology

30 Grads in 30 Days: Janelle Yong

B.S., electrical engineering

Third grader's question about soccer fields leads to UCSC science lab

Third-grader Claire Dworsky is investigating her own questions about water quality in Adina Paytan's laboratory at UCSC.

30 Grads in 30 Days: Marina Sarran

Ph.D., sociology

30 Grads in 30 Days: Randy Nguyen

B.A., sociology

30 Grads in 30 Days: Leiyana Wilson

B.A., sociology/Latin American and Latino studies

Hands-on research inspires freshman biology students

In the Phage Genomics Lab, a select group of freshmen dive straight into research, while also taking the usual introductory biology lectures.

Rajan to study management of environmental risks in India

With a new NSF grant, S. Ravi Rajan will explore the intersection of science and politics in India.

30 Grads in 30 Days: Michael Beirne

B.A. music, mathematics

Scientists develop new technology for tracking algal toxins

A new tool for tracking algal toxins is under development at UCSC.

30 Grads in 30 Days: Irene Vasquez

B.A., environmental studies and economics

30 Grads in 30 Days: Farzaneh Tondnevis

B.S., biochemistry and molecular biology

30 Grads in 30 Days: Rigo Dicochea

M.S., computer engineering

UCSC well represented at Santa Cruz Film Festival, May 7-15

A robust selection of films by UCSC students and alumni will be showcased at the 2009 Santa Cruz Film Festival, running May 7-15 in downtown Santa Cruz.

30 Grads in 30 Days: Eli Weinberg

B.A., theater arts

30 Grads in 30 Days: Roopesh Sitharan

MFA, digital arts and new media

Former student remembers author and UCSC lecturer James Houston

Steve Woodhams (Porter College 1974-77) offers a remembrance of author and former UCSC lecturer James D. Houston, who died on April 16 at his home in Santa Cruz.

30 Grads in 30 Days: Birte Dedeyan Klug

B.A., history, with a concentration on Asia and the Islamic World

Arthur P. Ramirez named dean of the Jack Baskin School of Engineering

Arthur Penn Ramirez, a leader in materials science and cutting-edge applied and basic research, has been named dean of the Jack Baskin School of Engineering at UCSC.

30 Grads in 30 Days: Christopher Gauk-Roger

B.A., Film and Digital Media

UCSC Farm & Garden's Annual Spring Plant Sale features "victory garden" crops

The Farm & Garden's annual Spring Plant Sale features food crops for home gardens.

Astronomer Sandra Faber honored by Franklin Institute

Astronomer Sandra Faber received the 2009 Bower Award and Prize for Achievement in Science in a ceremony yesterday in Philadelphia.

30 Grads in 30 Days: Ruth Kramer

Ph.D., linguistics

Chez Panisse and others rally to support UCSC's Grow a Farmer Campaign

Chez Panisse and others are hosting benefits during the month of May to support the Apprenticeship in Ecological Horticulture

30 Grads in 30 Days: Sara Stickler

B.A., Anthropology

UCSC Jewish Studies Distinguished Lecture and Alumni Conference this weekend--April 24, 26

30 Grads in 30 Days: Daniel Zarchy

B.A., global economics

30 Grads in 30 Days: Maggie Sheldon

B.A., Film and digital media, critical studies concentration in feminist studies

30 Grads in 30 Days: Shelly Chan

Ph.D., History

Write an "Ode to Santa Cruz"--winning poem to be read onstage by Garrison Keillor during May 13 show at Santa Cruz Civic

Submit your best "Ode to Santa Cruz" for a chance to win tickets to attend <i>An Evening with Garrison Keillor</i> at the Santa Cruz Civic. The host of <i>A Prairie Home Companion</i> will read the winning poem onstage at the show.

30 Grads in 30 Days: Scott Rohlf

B.S., Earth sciences

Racism expert Thomas F. Pettigrew receives top UC honor for emeriti faculty

For some, retirement means slowing down and shifting gears. Not so for Thomas F. Pettigrew.

Study points to disruption of copper regulation as key to prion diseases

An investigation of a rare, inherited form of Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease suggests that disrupted regulation of copper ions in the brain may be a key factor in this and other prion diseases.

Baskin School of Engineering and Cisco find mutual benefit in networking partnership

Students in the Baskin School of Engineering are getting real-world experience in computer networks through a partnership with San Jose-based Cisco Systems

UCSC grad students to present exhibition of digital art with social impact at Museum of Art and History

Ten graduate students from UCSC's Digital Arts and New Media (DANM) program will present a two-part exhibition at the Museum of Art and History in downtown Santa Cruz, running April 17 to June 24.

Bill Domhoff's new book documents the rise of progressive politics in Santa Cruz

A new book reveals the roots of progressive politics in Santa Cruz.

Statement from UCSC dean concerning proposed budget cuts

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. tops UCSC Alumni Reunion Weekend festivities April 24-26

Environmental leader Robert F. Kennedy Jr. kicks off UCSC's Reunion Weekend 2009 festivities on April 24.

UCSC Climate Action Plan open for public comments

College Eight revamps its core course to create an "outstanding freshman experience"

College Eight is revamping its core course to provide an "outstanding freshman experience."

UCSC professor offers 'street smart' guide to making documentary films

Looking for a practical, step-by-step guide to creating a documentary film? You might look no further than a new compact handbook co-authored by UC Santa Cruz associate professor of film and digital media Gustavo Vazquez.

Cancer Genomics Browser gives cancer researchers a powerful new tool

The UCSC Cancer Genomics Browser provides a new way to visualize and analyze data from studies aimed at improving cancer treatment by unraveling the complex genetic roots of the disease.

Obama's regulatory plan doesn't go far enough, says author of new book Morals and Markets

In his new book, economist Dan Friedman identifies the systemic problems that underlie the economic crisis.

Reunion Weekend features a panel discussion about the environment

UCSC's Reunion Weekend 2009 will feature a panel discussion about the environment.

Dedicated marine mammal volunteers save oiled otter

When a young sea otter was found on the beach covered with tar balls and slick oil, volunteers with the Marine Mammal Physiology Project sprang into action.

Hollow gold nanospheres show promise for biomedical and other applications

A new metal nanostructure has already shown promise in cancer therapy studies and could be used for chemical and biological sensors and other applications as well.

Transfer students to benefit from physics and astronomy scholarships

UCSC has received a five-year, $600,000 grant from the National Science Foundation to support talented but financially needy students pursuing bachelor's degrees in physics or astrophysics.

UCSC alumna author looks out for kids who can't read

Susan Blackaby has always kept her eye out for the kid who can't read. An educational writer for the past 25 years, the UC Santa Cruz alumna has written more than 120 books for children to inspire them to learn how to read.

Richards, Cabrera, Rickford win Alumni Association top honors

The common thread running through the Alumni Association's top award winners for 2008-09 is their exceptional ability to inspire.

Universities, NASA unveil plans to build new campus at Ames

UCSC and Foothill-De Anza Community College District today announced a new partnership with NASA Ames Research Center to establish a sustainable community for education and research at the NASA Research Park.

Marc Mangel elected to the Royal Society of Edinburgh

Marc Mangel, distinguished professor of mathematical biology at UC Santa Cruz, has been elected a corresponding fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh, Scotland's national academy of science and letters.

Exhibition by Elliot Anderson at Gallery 16 in San Francisco through March 27

<i>Equivalents</i>, a new body of work by assistant professor of art and electronic media Elliot Anderson, will be on display at Gallery 16 in San Francisco through March 27.

Dust deposited in oceans may carry elements toxic to marine algae

New findings show that some sources of dust deposited in the oceans carry toxic elements that can kill marine phytoplankton.

New general education requirements emphasize bold interdisciplinary themes, global engagement

A new forward-looking approach to education will prepare undergraduates for life in the complex, information-rich environment of the 21st century.

New book dedicated to work of international literary scholar/founding UCSC faculty member

<i>A Touch More Rare: Harry Berger, Jr. and the Art of Interpretation</i> (Fordham University Press, 2009) celebrates more than four decades of groundbreaking work by UC Santa Cruz emeritus professor of literature and art history Harry Berger, Jr.

Alum Michael Scherer covers the White House for Time magazine

UCSC grad Michael Scherer is covering the White House for <i>Time</i> magazine.

Stem cell symposium showcases new facilities and research

The UCSC Stem Cell Symposium showcased a variety of stem cell research projects now underway on campus and celebrated the opening last year of the Shared Stem Cell Facility.

New requirement ensures students acquire discipline-based writing experience

A new high-level writing requirement will prepare undergraduates for the demands of the 21st-century workforce.

Study links seabird deaths to soap-like foam produced by red-tide algae

A "red tide" bloom of marine algae in 2007 produced a soap-like substance that stripped the natural waterproofing from birds' feathers.

Sloan Research Fellowships awarded to two UCSC profs

The Alfred P. Sloan Foundation has awarded Sloan Research Fellowships to Samit Dasgupta, assistant professor of mathematics, and Mark Krumholz, assistant professor of astronomy and astrophysics.

Astronomer Sandra Faber to receive Franklin Institute's prestigious Bower Award

Astronomer Sandra Faber has been chosen to receive the 2009 Bower Award and Prize for Achievement in Science from the historic Franklin Institute in Philadelphia.

New data suggest "jumping genes" play a significant role in gene regulatory networks

Research suggests that mobile repetitive elements affect the evolution of gene regulatory networks.

Synthetic biology yields clues to evolution and the origin of life

The efforts of researchers in the field of synthetic biology are yielding clues to the mystery of how life began on Earth.

New monitoring stations detect "silent earthquakes" in Costa Rica

After installing a network of monitoring stations in Costa Rica, researchers have detected slow slip events ("silent earthquakes") along a major fault zone beneath the Nicoya Peninsula.

Literary Studies book series co-founded at UCSC to benefit from $1.16 million Mellon Foundation grant

A UC Press book series in literary studies--founded by UC Santa Cruz literature professor Richard Terdiman in collaboration with his colleague Susan Gillman and faculty from UC Berkeley and Irvine-will share a $1.16 million grant from the Andrew W. Mellon

Haney praises court decision on prison overcrowding

Psychology professor Craig Haney was one of the main expert witnesses who testified in the case before the three-judge panel of the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals.

UCSC alumna Marti Noxon wins Writers Guild TV Award for 'Mad Men'

UCSC alumna Marti Noxon has won a Writers Guild of America award for best dramatic television series of 2008. Noxon received her award as part of the writing team for the hit TV show "Mad Men."

$2.2 million grant approved for program to train stem cell scientists

The governing board of the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine (CIRM) last week approved a $2.2 million grant to UCSC to fund a training program in stem cell research.

Water industry taps UCSC to prepare for 'silver tsunami' of retirements

UCSC students will be poised to benefit from a wave of retirements in the water industry.

I am elephant seals (and so can you!)

Want to know the truthiness about northern elephant seals? Become a Facebook friend of Stelephant Colbert.

In Ms. magazine, Zavella challenges Congress to reform immigration law

Patricia Zavella highlights the "feminization" of immigration in an article in Ms. magazine.

Astronomers get a sizzling weather report from a distant planet

Astronomers have observed the intense heating of a distant planet as it swung close to its parent star, providing important clues to the atmospheric properties of the planet.

Jack Baskin School of Engineering to establish Keck Center for Nanoscale Optofluidics

UCSC has received a $1.5 million grant from the W. M. Keck Foundation to establish the W. M. Keck Center for Nanoscale Optofluidics.

Food is the "front line of healing," says author

Anthropologist Nancy Chen has a simple message for Americans who are obsessed with fad diets: Skip the gimmicks and listen to your grandmother.

UCSC alumnus wins 2009 Sundance directing award for first feature film

First-time director and UC Santa Cruz alumnus Cary Joji Fukunaga received the award for "Best Director, U.S. Drama," at the 2009 Sundance Film Festival for his film Sin Nombre.

Eyewitness to history: The inauguration of Barack Obama

Sociology professor Craig Reinarman was among the throngs who witnessed the inauguration of President Barack Obama.

Award-winning actress/UCSC alumna to perform "I Am That I Am: Woman, Black"-Jan. 28

Award-winning actress and UCSC alumna Adilah Barnes will perform her one woman show-I Am That I Am: Woman, Black-on Wednesday, Jan. 28, at 7 p.m. in the College 9 & 10 Multipurpose Room. Admission is free and open to the public.

UCSC professor provides academic expertise for unusual San Francisco art exhibition

When the directors of San Francisco's Museo ItaloAmericano decided to create an exhibit about Italian Jewish life in the age of the Ghetto (16th-19th centuries), the first thing they did was a Google search on the topic. What they found was UC Santa Cruz

Prop. 8 transformed the film Milk, writes film scholar B. Ruby Rich

The passage of Proposition 8 transformed the film <i>Milk</i> into a political touchstone, says film scholar B. Ruby Rich.

Film scholar B. Ruby Rich plays a leading role at Sundance Film Festival

For the 21st year, film scholar B. Ruby Rich helps shape the agenda at Sundance Film Festival.

New study resolves mystery of how massive stars form

A study led by astrophysicist Mark Krumholz shows how massive stars can form without blowing away the clouds of gas and dust that feed their growth.

Medical robotics expert explores the human-machine interface

Jacob Rosen is developing a wearable robotic "exoskeleton" that could enable a person to lift heavy objects with little effort.

UCSC film professor commissioned to create art for 'video walls' at LAX

UC Santa Cruz professor of film and digital media Chip Lord is one of 20 artists who have been commissioned to create video art works for an innovative installation at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).

Study of disease risk suggests ways to avoid slaughter of Yellowstone bison

Last winter, government agencies killed one third of Yellowstone National Park's bison herd, but such measures may be unnecessary according to researchers who have assessed the risk of disease transmission from Yellowstone bison to cattle.

Astronomers use gamma-ray burst to probe star formation in the early universe

The brilliant afterglow of a powerful gamma-ray burst (GRB) has enabled astronomers to probe the star-forming environment of a distant galaxy, resulting in the first detection of molecular gas in a GRB host galaxy.