Research shows how redlining influenced life expectancy

Research by sociologist Michael Esposito, in Arts & Sciences, shows how the racialized logic that informed redlining continues to influence the distribution of privileges and risks across neighborhoods, resulting in stark health inequalities.

Burton named vice chancellor for government relations

J.D. Burton has been named vice chancellor for government relations, according to Chancellor Andrew D. Martin. He will begin the role March 27. Burton previously served as the chief government relations officer for the University of Minnesota.

Power of cancer drugs may see boost by targeting pathway

Researchers at the School of Medicine have identified a previously unknown signaling pathway that cells use to protect their DNA while it is being copied. The findings suggest a way that could boost the potency of cancer therapeutics.

Weingarth named senior adviser for St. Louis initiatives

Lisa Weingarth, vice president of external affairs at the St. Louis-based nonprofit Rung for Women, has been named to the newly created role of senior adviser for St. Louis initiatives in the Office of the Chancellor. Her appointment is effective Feb. 20.

Notables

The School of Medicine’s Jeffrey I. Gordon, MD, has been named this year’s recipient of the Dr. Paul Janssen Award for Biomedical Research. The honor recognizes Gordon’s groundbreaking studies of the role of the gut microbiome in human health and disease.

Research Wire

Patricia Weisensee, an assistant professor at the McKelvey School of Engineering, won a $351,971 National Science Foundation grant to support a new study of condensation in fluid refrigerants.

Announcements

Reminder of key university policies

To ensure broad communication, certain key university policies are published annually in The Record. These policies are intended to promote and support a positive working and learning environment. The policies also are available on the Human Resources website.

Jennifer Miller, Siteman staff member, 33

Jennifer Anne Miller, who worked at Siteman Cancer Center at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and the School of Medicine, died Jan. 17 during a surgery in Bethesda, Md., to treat a rare advanced cancer. She was 33. Funeral services will be held today in Belleville, Ill.