Science & Technology

Some of Austin Schorfheide’s happiest memories are working the family farm in Hoyleton, Ill. — bailing hay, milking the cows, planting corn and soybeans. So while Schorfheide knew he did not want to be a farmer himself, he does want to make life better for farming communities.

In a wide-ranging practice that encompasses sculpture, video, performance and installation, Sophia Hatzikos explores the complex relationships between natural and constructed systems and between scientific and artistic research practices.

To protect migrating birds passing through the St. Louis region in late April and May, Washington University in St. Louis is partnering with the Lights Out Heartland initiative to curb light pollution.

Marcus Foston, an associate professor of energy, environmental and chemical engineering at the McKelvey School of Engineering, is exploring how to add value to lignin, a type of polymer found in wood.

The undergraduate students in Washington University’s zymurgy class can learn about the practical application of synthetic biology through the traditional science of beer brewing.

Young-Shin Jun, a professor of energy, environmental and chemical engineering at the McKelvey School of Engineering, has been awarded a $1.4 million U.S. Department of Energy grant to turn concentrated waste from water purification systems into valuable products for industrial use.

The Office of Sustainability offers tips for reducing energy use during the winter break. It’s also hosting the annual holiday lights recycling drive through Feb. 2.

The WashU Sustainability Fund has launched to provide funding to WashU community members for small-scale sustainability projects.

The “Share Our Stuff” program collects items during student move-out each year to divert them from landfills. Events are held regularly to get the items to new homes. The program is hosting a fashion sale from noon-4 p.m. Friday, Oct. 13, at its North Campus warehouse, 700 Rosedale Ave.

Feng Jiao, a professor of energy, environmental and chemical engineering at the McKelvey School of Engineering, will lead work designed to address food insecurity in low- and middle-income countries.