Did plate tectonics give rise to life? Groundbreaking new research could crack Earth's deepest mystery.
| yahoo.com
Emerging evidence suggests that plate tectonics, or the recycling of Earth's crust, may have begun much earlier than previously thought — and may be a big reason that our planet harbors life. This article quotes Jesse Reimink, assistant professor of geosciences.
Aerospace engineering graduate students awarded Department of Defense fellowship
| psu.edu
Five Penn State aerospace engineering graduate students, including two brothers, were selected for the Science, Mathematics, and Research for Transformation Scholarship-for-Service Program, which is administered by the U.S. Department of Defense.
Patch Project creates 'mini forests' in Beaver County community
| psu.edu
The Patch Project, an initiative between Penn State Beaver and local non-profit Reforest Our Future, aims to restore natural elements to the local landscape. Ten small patches of forest will be planted around Beaver County. The project is being completed with funds from the inaugural Commonwealth Campus Undergraduate Community-Engaged Research Award.
Plan advances for additions, renovation to Sackett Building
| news.engr.psu.edu
The Penn State Board of Trustees Committee on Finance and Investment advanced a proposal today (Nov. 7) for renovations and additions to Sackett Building, which borders the southwest edge of Pattee Mall on the University Park campus.
Microplastics promote cloud formation, with likely effects on weather and climate
| theconversation.com
Clouds affect Earth’s weather and climate in many ways. New research suggests that the presence of microplastic particles could alter these processes. This article was written by Miriam Freedman, professor of chemistry and Heidi Busse, PhD student in chemistry.
Sustainability to host Indigenous food sovereignty leader and chef Tawnya Brant
| psu.edu
Penn State Sustainability is wrapping up its semester of programming with both a Sustainability Showcase Series and an Intersections Film Series centered on Indigenous food and foodways. Chef Tawnya Brant — a Kanyen’kehá:ka (Mohawk) woman, Indigenous food sovereignty leader, restaurant owner, and recent "Top Chef Canada contestant" —will join SustainPSU for a series of events.
Trustees support new Applied Research Laboratory facility at Innovation Park
| psu.edu
The Penn State Board of Trustees’ Finance and Investment Committee advanced a proposal on Nov. 7 to construct a new Applied Research Laboratory Building on the University Park campus.
Microplastics impact cloud formation, likely affecting weather and climate
| psu.edu
Scientists have spotted microplastics, tiny pieces of plastic smaller than 5 millimeters, in some of the most pristine environments on Earth, from the depths of the Mariana Trench to the snow on Mt. Everest to the mountaintop clouds of China and Japan. Microplastics have been detected in human brains, the bellies of sea turtles and the roots of plants. Now, new research led by Penn State scientists reveals that microplastics in the atmosphere could be affecting weather and climate.
Report: Coal-based steelmaking causes hundreds of premature deaths and billions in health costs nationwide
| alleghenyfront.org
The report also found nearly 250,000 cases of asthma annually were caused by air pollution from coal-based steel, such as at U.S. Steel's Mon Valley plants. This article quotes Jennifer Baka, associate professor of geography.
The Philadelphia region remains under drought watch. Here’s what you need to know
| whyy.org
The Philadelphia area is facing record dry conditions. Meteorologists say months of rainfall is needed. This article and radio segment quotes Steven Seman, associate teaching professor of meteorology and atmospheric science.
Mechanical engineering faculty to contribute to separation materials research
| news.engr.psu.edu
Adri van Duin, distinguished professor of mechanical engineering at Penn State, and Yun Kyung Shin, associate research professor of mechanical engineering at Penn State, are part of a University of Wyoming (UW)-led research team that will study 2D covalent organic frameworks (COFs) — a family of materials designed have optimal traits for use in separating out different materials.
Viewpoint: Catalyzing climate solutions through energy and carbon education
| pubs.acs.org
Global CO2 emissions per capita continue to climb, despite rising climate awareness and advances in renewable energy. Empowering communities with clear, relatable ways to understand energy use and emissions could bridge the gap between knowledge and action.
Flooding is the world's most devastating natural disaster, causing widespread destruction and loss of life. Millions of Americans live in high-risk flood zones, with the threat amplified by climate change and aging infrastructure. This episode explores how innovative computer modeling and visualizations can help communities plan for future flood risks and develop effective response strategies. Listen to the podcast.
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