Evidence suggests a weak magnetic field millions of years ago may have fueled the proliferation of life. The Ediacaran Period, spanning from about 635 to 541 million years ago, was a pivotal time in Earth’s history. It marked a transformative era during which complex, multicellular organisms emerged, setting the stage for the explosion of life. But how did this surge of life unfold and what factors on Earth may have contributed to it? Researchers from the University of Rochester have uncovered compelling evidence that Earth’s magnetic field was in a highly unusual state when the macroscopic an ..read more

The annual University-wide event encourages Rochester community members to explore the intersection of science, art, and technology. A record 84 University of Rochester faculty, students, and staff submitted entries to an annual competition to explore and illuminate the aesthetic beauty that results when science, art, and technology intersect. The winning entries of the 2024 Art of Science competition were announced during a ceremony in the Carlson Library, where they will be permanently displayed. Held each spring, the competition is sponsored by the Hajim School of Engineering & ..read more

A trio of undergraduates teamed up to bring accessible, high-quality education consulting services to the community. Now, they’re branching out beyond Rochester. Two years ago, Adarsh Mavathaveedu ’24 was helping his younger brother fill out college applications back home in Flemington, New Jersey, when he came to a realization. “I could provide him with an abundance of resources and guidance—resources I wish I had when I was in high school,” the University of Rochester neuroscience major says. “But being the eldest child in an immigrant family, I had navigated the process alone. I thought, ‘W ..read more

From totality to Springfest and everything in between, here’s how we spent April at the University of Rochester. Photos by J. Adam Fenster unless otherwise noted. IN THE DARK: The University’s River Campus viewed from across the Genesee River during the total solar eclipse on April 8. TOTAL RECALL: Rush Rhees Library and Eastman Quad as seen during totality (and through a student’s cell phone). IN THE BLINK OF AN EYE: Owen Tu ’25 demonstrates an apparatus used to track eye movements in the lab of Michele Rucci, a professor of brain and cognitive sciences. Researchers led by Rucci have found ..read more

Rochester faculty are being honored for notable and longtime contributions to their fields. Share your updates Know of a faculty member receiving an award or honor? Contact us so we can help share the news. University of Rochester faculty regularly earn regional, national, and international awards and honors for their professional contributions to research, scholarship, education, and community engagement. As part of an ongoing series, we’re spotlighting their accomplishments. Mark Adams elected VP of Medical Society of State of New York Mark Adams, a professor of clinical imaging scienc ..read more

A Rochester art historian on the proliferation of indigenous fakes and replicas—and the blurry line between appropriation and admiration. Janet Berlo knows a thing or two about fakes. For starters, they can be hard to spot. “Many things would fool me. I can’t be an expert on the art works of scores of Native nations,” admits Berlo, a professor emerita in the Department of Art and Art History at the University of Rochester. But a Northwest Coast Native mask made in Indonesia? “Well, that’s relatively easy.” As the commercial value of Native American art has increased dramatically over the ..read more

University leaders need to provide clarification on the details of a meeting yesterday between student protesters and University administrators regarding protester demands. The students were demanding (1) a cease-fire call and (2) divestment from Israeli institutions. University administrators in fact made no commitment to either demand, but in particular made no commitment regarding a University divestment from any academic programs or ties with Israel, as is being inaccurately reported on some social media channels. University administrators made clear that neither demand was on the table. T ..read more

University of Rochester leaders are aware of the newly established encampment on the Wilson Quad of River Campus and want to be clear about the rules and processes moving forward for those who choose to participate in this activity. These ground rules are put forth as a measure of transparency and clear communication as to how everyone can peacefully share campus while continuing to pursue their purpose at the University, be it wrapping up academic work and finals to end the semester or graduate; working on campus or moving about without disruption or interference; and participating in campus ..read more

Sheeran will be the school’s eighth dean beginning July 15. Kate Sheeran ’02E begins her leadership role as the dean of the Eastman School of Music on July 15. (Provided photo) Alumnus Kate Sheeran ’02E, an accomplished educator and academic administrator, professional musician, and executive director of Kaufman Music Center in New York City, has been named the Joan and Martin Messinger Dean of the University of Rochester’s Eastman School of Music. Provost David Figlio announced Sheeran’s appointment, which is effective July 15. “Kate Sheeran brings to Eastman extensive and impressive leadersh ..read more

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