The Record

University introduces +AI academic initiative

WashU is launching a new universitywide initiative called +AI. The initiative aims to transform teaching and learning and accelerate research while also acknowledging the challenges that artificial intelligence will create.

Falls signal faster cognitive decline in older adults

A single fall may carry the same Alzheimer’s risk as abnormal brain biomarkers — offering a potentially earlier, easier screening signal, according to a new study by WashU School of Public Health researchers.

Surprising culprit leads to chronic rejection of transplanted organs

A study led by WashU Medicine researchers shows that chronic organ rejection may be triggered by the disruption of lymphatic vessels — an important drainage system throughout the body — from the donor organ.

High school students compete at WashU’s annual Brain Bee

The 16th annual St. Louis Area Brain Bee drew 54 high school students from about 30 schools to WashU for a day of neuroscience challenges and career panels.

Notables

The 2026-28 Carol B. and Jerome T. Loeb Teaching Fellows at WashU Medicine have been named. They are Salim Chahin, MD (left), an associate professor of neurology, and Ram K. Rohatgi, MD, an assistant professor of pediatrics and of radiology.

Research Wire

Planetary scientists in Arts & Sciences will be looking over data about high-energy neutrinos, retrieved during a balloon flight over Antarctica in January. WashU played a central role in the mission’s development and recovery phases.

Announcements

WashU to sponsor Greater St. Louis Marathon

WashU once again will partner with Go! St. Louis, host of the Greater St. Louis Marathon. The St. Louis tradition features races from a full marathon to a 1-mile family fun run. The race will take place April 11. WashU faculty, staff and students are eligible for discounted registration.

Ralph S. Quatrano, former dean of engineering, 84

Ralph S. Quatrano, an internationally renowned plant scientist, former dean of what was then the School of Engineering & Applied Science and former chair of biology in Arts & Sciences, died Feb. 24 in St. Louis. A celebration of life will take place May 9.