Page 33 – The Source | Washington University in St. Louis

Enhanced brain cells clear away dementia-related proteins

WashU Medicine researchers engineered a new cellular immunotherapy that turns brain cells called astrocytes into super cleaners, efficiently removing amyloid beta plaques from the brains of mice.

Advancement

Steensma installed as E. Desmond and Mary Ann Lee Professor

Colorful bird signs lift above the crowd at Steensma’s installation ceremony, honoring the scholar who has authored three field guides on avian life.

Public health scholar and entrepreneur Joseph T. Steensma bridges research and real-world impact, translating science into scalable solutions that address environmental and population health challenges.

Awards & Notables

Drum Major Awards recognize faculty, staff, students at WashU Medicine

During WashU Medicine’s 2026 Martin Luther King Jr. Commemoration Week, 22 faculty, staff and students were recognized with Drum Major Awards for embodying King’s work and words.

Appointments & Promotions

Center for Teaching and Learning seeks new leader

A search committee has been appointed to identify a new executive director of WashU’s Center for Teaching and Learning. The role, currently held by Michael Wysession, a professor in Arts & Sciences, will now be a full-time staff position.

Medicine

Students’ cross-disciplinary collaboration addresses real-life needs

The annual Assistive Tech Make-a-Thon brings together WashU OT and engineering students to enhance the lives of St. Louisans who have disabilities.

Medicine

GLP-1 medications get at the heart of addiction: study

WashU Medicine researchers have shown in a new study that GLP-1 medications, typically used for diabetes and weight loss, may be effective at treating and preventing substance use disorders, from alcohol to cigarettes to opioids.

Obituaries

Adrian Luchini, celebrated architect, 71

Adrian Luchini, the Raymond E. Maritz Professor Emeritus of Architecture at the Sam Fox School of Design & Visual Arts, died Feb. 12 while visiting his native Argentina. He was 71.

Data & Computer Science

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 AI will create.

Awards & Notables

Stone recognized for support of disabled students

Chris Stone, director of disability resources at WashU, received the inaugural World of Good Award from his alma mater, Central College in Pella, Iowa. In his role, Stone works to support disabled students in meeting their academic and personal development goals.

Engineering

A clear view to better batteries

Engineering researchers at WashU are providing guidance and maps to improve the performance and safety of lithium-ion batteries.