Applications for The Innovation Impact Case Award are now open! This award recognizes research that has led to significant impact outside of academia and has made a meaningful difference in our communities. Submissions due May 12. research.umn.edu/news/apply-sta…

UMN researchers are exploring how navy beans can be developed into a sustainable, plant-based protein ingredient for food products. The project could expand markets for Minnesota growers while supporting consumer demand for alternative protein. Learn more: bit.ly/44r9hc6

Winter oilseed crops are gaining traction as sustainable aviation fuel feedstocks—offering powerful opportunities for both economic development and ecological regeneration. Learn more about how UMN’s Forever Green Initiative is leading this research: bit.ly/4luGdqv

UMN researchers are participating in a national study to determine whether brain scans can detect signs of autism as early as 6 months old! Learn more: kstp.com/kstp-news/top-…

UMN researchers are part of a team that has discovered a new method to help break down PFAS, the so-called “forever chemicals,” using heat and iron. While promising, the researchers emphasize further study is needed. Learn more: bit.ly/43XJVm6

A new report warns buying plants online can contribute to ecological harm. UMN researchers emphasize the importance of checking plant species before purchasing to prevent spreading invasive plants that threaten native ecosystems. Read more: cbsn.ws/4jKNMr8

UMN sleep medicine physician, Dr. Akinbolaji Akingbola, comments on which sleep hacks actually work in this New York Times article. Read more: nyti.ms/42tdxGY

We are seeking nominations for our Research Technical Staff Award, which recognizes research staff for their service and contributions to the UMN research community. RIO unit staff are not eligible for this award. The nomination deadline is June 2, 2025. bit.ly/3RENZjN

Last week’s inaugural BioTech Day brought together faculty, researchers and industry to celebrate a legacy of collaboration and spark new partnerships in biotechnology and biomanufacturing. Read more: bit.ly/4debPN6

At the Development Corporation of Austin’s annual meeting, UMN VP for Research and Innovation Shashank Priya highlighted key regional initiatives that reflect the UMN's commitment to driving statewide impact through research, innovation, and collaboration. bit.ly/4kjfBYq

UMN researchers are exploring the potentials of perennial flax as anything from a cut flower to a crop grown for oil seed. Get the full story: bit.ly/4krtfsq

Hear what Extension educator Laura Irish-Hanson (right) had to say about gardening this summer in Minnesota! bit.ly/4kU1WHk

Jason Hill, a professor in UMN’s Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems Engineering, is quoted in a recent Star Tribune article, raising concerns about how federal estimates may undercount the climate impact of biofuels like ethanol. Read the story: bit.ly/4jzAAVK

We are excited to announce the recipients of the 2025 Social Justice Impact Grants! Congratulations to Gail Dubrow, Yuanyuan Hu, Fayola Jacobs, G.Nic Rider, and Jeff Waid. Read the full story: bit.ly/40dpwqm

Over $2 million has been awarded to support UMN research infrastructure! As part of the 2025 Research Infrastructure Investment Program, awards support initiatives that will improve research infrastructure, facilities, and support services across UMN. bit.ly/4l9sXqt

To Suffer What We Can't Evade: What is Medicine’s Role in Responding to Suffering?🩺 Join Tyler Tate, MD, MA, for a powerful #bioethics webinar: 🗓️ Aug. 26 | 12–1 p.m. CDT 🔗 bit.ly/3U6zbLW #MedTwitter #HealthcareEthics #Webinar

The Artist-in-Residence program opens August 12th! This program will bring together artists with scientists to spur creative thinking and innovation. Learn more about the program: LOI due Aug. 11; application opens Aug. 12; proposals due Sept. 9. bit.ly/3SlJU4H

Only one week left to submit the LOI for the Artist-in-Residence program! Each award must create an artistic outcome to be displayed or performed. RIO anticipates two awards of up to $50K will be made in 2025. LOI due Aug. 11; application opens Aug. 12; proposals due Sept. 9.

UMN will host the 51 Pegasi b Fellowship program which advances fundamental understanding of solar system science, exoplanet science, and closely related topics in planetary astronomy. Applications for the Fellowship will be accepted through October 3rd. bit.ly/3J6KoKj

UMN’s ten Research and Outreach Centers (ROCs) play a crucial role in advancing agricultural and natural resource knowledge and innovation for Minnesotans. Their specialty research brings Minnesotans together to nurture tomorrow! bit.ly/45lKzJ7