The Record

Large medieval cities found along Asia’s Silk Roads

The first use of cutting-edge drone-based lidar in Central Asia allowed archaeologists led by Michael Frachetti, in Arts & Sciences, to capture stunning details of two newly documented trade cities high in the mountains of Uzbekistan.

White Coat Ceremony marks beginning of medical training

WashU Medicine’s newest class of medical students gathered Oct. 18 in Graham Chapel to receive their white coats and recite their class oath, marking the beginning of their medical careers.

NCI leader explores future of cancer research

National Cancer Institute Director W. Kimryn Rathmell, MD, PhD, says the next era of U.S. cancer research must foster new partnerships that involve patients and community members along with continued efforts toward equity in the field.

Notables

A remembrance of poet and WashU English professor Howard Nemerov has been named to the Notable Essays list in “Best American Essays 2024.” The piece was first published by The Common Reader, a journal of essays housed at WashU.

Research Wire

Peng Bai, a researcher at the McKelvey School of Engineering, has received a National Science Foundation grant to expand his work in sodium-based batteries.

Announcements

Voting is underway in Missouri

No-excuse absentee voting for registered voters has begun in Missouri. Voters can visit the St. Louis or St. Louis County elections websites to find sample ballots, polling locations and additional information.