How do developing brains assemble and organize?

Researchers led by the School of Medicine’s Linda J. Richards published a study describing early events in brain development. The findings lay the groundwork for understanding the roots of brain conditions such as epilepsy, autism and intellectual disability.

Black legislators talk more about race, and it works

A new study from political scientist Matthew Hayes in Arts & Sciences finds legislators who use symbolism in speeches about race and civil rights reap electoral rewards, including more favorable evaluations and higher voter turnout.

Blowing snow contributes to Arctic warming

Atmospheric scientists led by Jian Wang, at the McKelvey School of Engineering, analyzed data from an Arctic expedition and found that blowing snow is a source of sea salt aerosols, impacting Arctic climate models.

Comfort dogs Bear and Brookie are ready to help

Since arriving in February, comfort dogs Bear and Brookie have made hundreds of human friends. Students cuddle the pups after a tough exam, and department chairs invite them to meetings. Everyone also gets to meet WUPD Officers Greg Casem and Jesse Siefert.

Research Wire

Gaya Amarasinghe, the Alumni Endowed Professor of pathology and immunology at the School of Medicine, received a five-year $16.8 million grant renewal from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) for Ebola virus research.

Notables

Multidisciplinary artist, experimental filmmaker and writer Crystal Z Campbell has been named the Henry L. and Natalie E. Freund Teaching Fellow at the Sam Fox School for the 2023-24 academic year.

Announcements

WashU joins coalition of urban universities

WashU is the newest member of the Coalition of Urban and Metropolitan Universities. The group provides faculty, students and staff with benefits including an online journal, networking opportunities and more.