The Record

Prime time for fiber optics to take a deep dive into brain circuits

A group of researchers in the McKelvey School of Engineering and WashU Medicine has created a new kind of fiber-optic device to manipulate neural activity deep in the brain.

Toward a safer world by 2040

National experts — including WashU’s Sandro Galea — call for rethinking firearm violence as a preventable public-health crisis and investing in community, technology and research to create lasting safety.

Lang named Barbara J. Norton Professor of Physical Therapy

Catherine E. Lang (second from right), a leading researcher in stroke recovery and rehabilitation at WashU Medicine’s Program in Physical Therapy, has been installed as the inaugural Barbara J. Norton Professor of Physical Therapy.

WashU career communities help students find their future

Led by certified career coaches, the Center for Career Engagement’s career communities help WashU students discover the range of careers that match their values, talents and interests.

Notables

Li Yang, the Albert Gordon Hill Professor of Physics in Arts & Sciences, has been named a 2025 fellow of the American Physical Society. Fellows have demonstrated excellence in research, teaching and advancing the field.

Announcements

Reminder: enroll for 2026 benefits during open enrollment

Benefits open enrollment is underway and will end Nov. 14. WashU employees should select, update or enroll in health insurance and other benefits for the 2026 calendar year.

Announcements

Flags lowered in memory of Dick Cheney

The U.S. and university flags over Brookings Hall are lowered to half-staff in memory of former Vice President Richard “Dick” Cheney, who died Nov. 3 at age 84.

Kenneth F. Kelton, professor emeritus of physics, 71

Kenneth (Ken) Franklin Kelton, the Arthur Holly Compton Professor Emeritus of Physics in Arts & Sciences, died Oct. 28 following complications from lymphoma treatments. A celebration of his life will take place Dec. 13.