Add BrightSurf on Google Email

2023 Hertz Fellowship accepting applications

The Fannie and John Hertz Foundation is accepting applications for the 2023 Hertz Fellowship, offering five years of funding to support research that advances the nation's security and economic vitality. Past recipients include Nobel laureates and notable leaders in science and technology.

SourceFannie and John Hertz Foundation·DateAug 26, 2022

Organ-development discovery could boost battle against cancer

Researchers at UVA have discovered the mechanism behind gene regulation during organ development, shedding light on how genetic material interacts with transcription factors to create different cell types. The study's findings could offer insights into the initiation of certain cancers and inspire new therapeutic development.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 24, 2022
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Introducing GTGraffiti: The robot that paints like a human

Researchers created a graffiti-painting robot system that uses motion capture technology to record human painting motions. The team's cable-driven robot spray paints artwork with precision and speed, enabling the creation of human-style graffiti.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 7, 2022
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Two Virginia graduate students get a boost for research

Two graduate students from Virginia universities selected to receive support through the Office of Science Graduate Student Research program will conduct research at Jefferson Lab. The program provides world-class training and access to state-of-the-art facilities, aiming to prepare students for critical jobs in science and innovation.

SourceDOE/Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility·DateMay 26, 2022

Skyrmions on the rise – new 2D material advances low-power computing

Researchers have discovered layered 2D materials that can host unique magnetic features, including skyrmions, which remain stable at room temperature. The discovery could lead to novel low-energy data storage and information processing systems.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 28, 2022

Researchers detect a tropical plant species presumed to be extinct

Researchers, led by University of Miami associate professor Kenneth Feeley and graduate student Riley Fortier, have rediscovered Gasteranthus extinctus, a tropical plant species believed to be extinct for nearly 40 years. The discovery highlights the importance of conserving biodiversity in Ecuador's Centinela Ridge, which is home to h...

SourceUniversity of Miami·JournalPhytoKeys·DateApr 18, 2022
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

MU grant will help nurses boost confidence in COVID-19 vaccine

The University of Missouri has received a grant to help nurses discuss COVID-19 vaccination hesitancy with their communities. The project will equip nursing students with knowledge and confidence to promote public health through effective communication strategies.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateApr 11, 2022

Student researchers improve coral restoration efforts

A recent study led by University of Hawaii student researchers found that exposing rice coral larvae to warmer temperatures did not improve survival once the coral developed into juveniles. Instead, rearing at ambient temperatures maximized early life stage survival.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalCoral Reefs·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 23, 2022

Rainfall strongly affects infectious Vibrio bacteria in Ala Wai Canal

A recent study found that rainfall significantly affects the abundance of Vibrio vulnificus in the Ala Wai Canal, with moderate rainfall leading to high concentrations of the bacterium. The researchers suggest that while exposure is still a risk, precautions such as washing off with soap and water can minimize the danger.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·TypeObservational study·DateMar 2, 2022

UT graduate student research solves plate tectonics mystery

A recent study by a UT graduate student has unraveled the enigma of how tectonic plates break Earth's rock-hard shell. By monitoring seismic images and matching them with rock samples, the researcher found that a small break in the Australian plate grew over millions of years until it unzipped and set in motion a runaway geologic process.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 13, 2022

New technique tunes into graphene nanoribbons’ electronic potential

Researchers at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory developed a method to stabilize graphene nanoribbons and directly measure their unique magnetic properties. By substituting nitrogen atoms along the zigzag edges, they can discretely tune the local electronic structure without disrupting the magnetic properties.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 22, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Advanced analysis of Apollo sample illuminates Moon’s evolution

A new study published in Nature Communications reveals chemical heterogeneities in Apollo 17 sample troctolite 76535, indicating an early rapid cooling of the Moon. This finding challenges previous estimates of a 100-million-year cooling duration and supports initial rapid cooling of magmas within the lunar crust.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 14, 2021

A potential new approach for the treatment of schizophrenia

Vanderbilt researchers discover how a protein may treat schizophrenia, including reversing working memory deficits. Enhancing the activity of mGlu1 selectively increases the activity of specific inhibitory interneurons, restoring their ability to inhibit neuronal circuits.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalCell Reports·DateDec 13, 2021

Near-earth asteroid might be a lost fragment of the moon

A team of astronomers from the University of Arizona suggests that near-Earth asteroid Kamo`oalewa could be a miniature moon, with its spectrum matching lunar rocks from NASA's Apollo missions. The asteroid's orbit is similar to Earth's but with a slight tilt, making it unlikely to have originated from a typical near-Earth asteroid.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·TypeObservational study·DateNov 11, 2021
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

COVID-19 lockdowns deepened struggle for work-family balance

A new study by McGill University researchers found that COVID-19 lockdowns disproportionately affected graduate students' mental health, particularly among women. Women reported more stress related to remote teaching and caregiving responsibilities, leading to increased depressive symptoms.

SourceMcGill University·JournalPreventive Medicine Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 10, 2021

Recognizing familiar faces relies on a neural code shared across brains

A new Dartmouth study found that a neural code shared across brains is responsible for recognizing familiar faces, including social and personal information. The study used hyperalignment to align brain responses into a common space, revealing high decoding accuracy in areas outside of visual processing.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 1, 2021

Fewer frogs died by vehicles in the outset of the pandemic, study finds

A new study led by a University of Maine graduate student found that 50% fewer frogs died from vehicle collisions in spring 2020 compared to previous years. This decline was part of a broader reduction in animal road fatalities during the pandemic, similar to findings in other studies worldwide.

SourceUniversity of Maine·JournalConservation Science and Practice·DateOct 13, 2021
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Strike-slip faulting may be active deformation mechanism on Saturn’s largest moon, Titan

A recent study suggests that strike-slip faulting is an active deformation mechanism on Titan's surface, driven by diurnal tidal stresses and pore fluid pressures. The researchers found that shallow faults near the equator are optimally oriented for potential failure, which could facilitate material transport and affect habitability.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalIcarus·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 8, 2021

Internship prepares scientists in training to communicate with the public

A science communications internship at MUSC helps scientists in training share research with the general public, improving laywriting skills and restoring trust. The program has produced over 100 science news stories and exposed interns to diverse career paths related to science communication.

SourceMedical University of South Carolina·JournalJournal of Clinical and Translational Science·TypeSurvey·DateSep 30, 2021
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Making (and breaking) eye contact makes conversation more engaging

Research from Dartmouth College reveals that making and breaking eye contact during conversations can create a dynamic balance between shared attention and individual expression. Pupillary synchrony decreases after eye contact breaks, allowing for creativity and new thoughts, while also signaling shared understanding.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 10, 2021

Colleges fall short on mental health outreach to Asian, Latino students

A recent study reveals that colleges struggle to provide adequate mental health support to Asian and Latino students due to interdependent cultural values and shame. The study suggests that culturally tailored treatment services addressing these issues can improve help-seeking behaviors.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJournal of Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 9, 2021
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Origami comes to life with new shape-changing materials

Researchers at CU Boulder's ATLAS Institute have developed shape-changing objects inspired by origami that can bend, wiggle, and flutter using artificial muscles. The 'Electriflow' designs utilize hydraulically amplified self-healing electrostatic actuators to create paper-thin, fast-moving, and almost silent objects.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·DateJul 21, 2021
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

New algorithm for modern quilting

Researchers at Stanford University have developed a new prototype software to facilitate pattern-making in foundation paper piecing quilting. The algorithm is based on a graph structure called a hypergraph and allows users to design patterns without having to consider the geometry, ordering, and constraints of the technique.

SourceStanford University·DateJun 3, 2021
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Horror films as a reimagined space for healing

Researcher Morgan Podraza examines the representation of trauma in horror films, arguing that the final girl trope can be reimagined as a space for healing and futures for people with trauma. The analysis highlights the need to acknowledge trauma and its ongoing effects, rather than just focusing on survival.

SourceOhio State University·JournalHorror Studies·DateMay 28, 2021

No cause for alarm about graduate students' mental health

A University of Otago study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that transitioning into PhD study in New Zealand does not lead to a significant drop in mental health. The research used data from the Graduate Longitudinal Study New Zealand, tracking students before and after entering a PhD program.

SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalFrontiers in Psychology·DateMay 23, 2021
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Meaningful movies help people cope with life's difficulties

A study found that watching meaningful films like 'Hotel Rwanda' can make people feel more prepared to deal with life's challenges. These films are associated with positive reactions such as feeling a sense of purpose and being motivated to pursue significant goals. The key elements of these films, including poignancy and emotional ran...

SourceOhio State University·JournalMass Communication & Society·DateMay 10, 2021

UChicago scientists harness molecules into single quantum state

Researchers at UChicago have successfully brought multiple molecules into a single quantum state, a major technological feat. This achievement has the potential to open new fields in quantum physics and chemistry, enabling innovative applications such as unhackable networks and earthquake sensors.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalNature·DateApr 28, 2021
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Bringing KAIZEN to kid healthcare

A systematic review of literature found that only 17% of quality improvement articles in PICUs met high standards, highlighting a need for better reporting practices. The study suggests that bringing the KAIZEN philosophy to kid healthcare can improve the timely delivery of medical care.

SourceOsaka City University·JournalPediatric Critical Care Medicine·DateMar 31, 2021

UNIST students honored with 2021 Asan Foundation Scholarship

Three UNIST graduate students, SangIn Kim, ByeongEun Lee, and YeonSong Choi, have been awarded the prestigious 2021 Asan Foundation Medical Bioscience Scholarship for their innovative work in DNA damage response, degenerative brain diseases, and disease genomics. The award provides financial assistance and recognizes their contribution...

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·DateMar 23, 2021

Easing the burden on transgender and nonbinary graduate students

A new report suggests interventions in graduate education to create more supportive environments for TNB students. The existing literature highlights the association between discrimination against TNB college students and negative psychological outcomes, such as suicidal ideation.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalHigher Education·DateMar 16, 2021

Sensing suns

Red supergiants are extremely bright but difficult to study due to their complex upper atmospheres. Astronomers have now developed a new technique to estimate their surface temperatures using iron absorption lines. By combining these temperatures with accurate distance measurements, researchers found consistent results with theory.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateFeb 28, 2021
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

AIBS recognizes Science Policy Leadership

Shyla Cooks and Karl Palmquist have been selected as the 2021 AIBS Emerging Public Policy Leadership Award recipients. They demonstrate an interest and aptitude for working at the intersection of science and policy, with a focus on education and environmental issues.

SourceAmerican Institute of Biological Sciences·DateFeb 26, 2021

Newly discovered fossil named after U of A paleontologist

A new trace fossil, Glossifungites gingrasi, has been named after University of Alberta paleontologist Murray Gingras. The discovery provides insight into ancient water salinity levels and helps narrow down the type of organism that created the burrow.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalJournal of Paleontology·DateJan 26, 2021
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Did early life need long, complex molecules to make cell-like compartments?

Researchers at Penn State created functional membraneless 'protocells' from short polymers that can sequester RNA and maintain distinct internal microenvironments. The protocells were stable in various salt concentrations and performed certain functions of a protocell, suggesting they could be relevant models for early life on Earth.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 23, 2020

Paper addresses fieldwork safety for minority scientists

A new paper in Nature Ecology and Evolution outlines strategies to improve fieldwork safety for researchers from diverse backgrounds. The authors recommend proactive measures such as notifying others of data collection locations and training supervisors to address these issues.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·DateNov 4, 2020
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Pufferfish-inspired robot could improve drone safety

A team of engineers at the University of Colorado Boulder has designed a robot inspired by pufferfish to improve drone safety. The PufferBot features an inflatable airbag that can expand in size to prevent dangerous collisions between people and machines.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·DateOct 21, 2020

Memory of the Venus flytrap

Research team successfully visualized intracellular calcium concentrations in the Venus flytrap, revealing that its short-term memory can be explained by changes in calcium concentration. The study demonstrates how a single contact event triggers a burst of calcium ions, which then trigger a second stimulus to close the trap.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalNature Plants·DateOct 5, 2020

To make a better sensor, just add noise

Penn State researchers discovered that adding background noise can enhance weak signals in manmade sensors, a phenomenon common in the animal world. This technique, known as stochastic resonance, can be used to detect other signals with low energy consumption and space requirements, making it suitable for deployment in IoT applications.

SourcePenn State·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 3, 2020
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Graduate student names new trace fossil discovered during coursework

A graduate student has identified a new marine wood-boring trace fossil, Apectoichnus lignummasticans, found in the University of Alberta's Drill Core Collection. The discovery provides evidence that the shallow sea covering Western Canada extended into Saskatchewan roughly 100 million years ago.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalJournal of Paleontology·DateSep 1, 2020

EIC Center at Jefferson Lab announces 6 new research awards

The EIC Center at Jefferson Lab has awarded six fellowships to early-career researchers working on advancing the science program of the Electron-Ion Collider. The fellowships provide $36,000 stipends and support R&D efforts towards realizing the potential of the collider.

SourceDOE/Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility·DateJul 6, 2020

Humans navigate with stereo olfaction

A new study reveals that humans have a stereo sense of smell, using binaral disparity to guide navigation. Results from psychophysical testing showed a moderate binaral disparity biases perceived direction towards the higher-concentration side, reminiscent of stereo vision.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 24, 2020
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.