The private lives of mushrooms

Plants, bugs and people feel the heat

Three new studies by UBC scientists map out the effects and possible challenges of climate change. New research by UBC evolutionary ecologist Rob Colautti indicates that invasive plants adapt quickly to local climates, with species such as purple loosestrife moving northwards. Zoologist Heather Kharouba’s research indicates that the flight season timing of butterflies is responsive to temperature shifts and may be affected by climate change. Finally, a study by UBC mathematicians reveals that groups cooperate less to mitigate climate change when the rewards of cooperation lay in the future.

CS grad, mentor, nabs alumni award

This November 14 Computer Science alumnae Juanita Lohmeyer (BSc, 2000) received one of six 2013 Alumni UBC Achievement Awards in recognition of her volunteer and leadership work. Juanita has been a mentor in the Computer Science Tri-mentoring Program for the past decade and has participated in numerous student development activities as panelist, speaker and facilitator.  She also coaches the UBC Executive MBA Program. 

Currently based with BCAA, she has held senior positions at several large organizations and led results-focused business strategies that have greatly enhanced operations and cut costs. Her innovative practices have been featured in several business journals.

Mars rover podcast

Couldn't attend our sold out event with Mars Curiosity Rover team member Laurie Leshin last month? No worries, now you can check out the podcast. Leshin explains the science and the mission of the Curiosity Rover, and outlines its discoveries and potential areas of exploration for future astronauts.

Help us build better scientists

Hands-on research helps science students make the crucial leap from the lecture hall to the lab, field or industry. Unfortunately, too few undergraduates have access to research placements--three times as many students apply for positions than our labs can place. You can change that with a donation to the Science Undergraduate Research Fund. The Dean of Science will match gifts up to $100,000, and with your help, we can double the number of research opportunities available to our students.

Very stale air

Researchers from UBC and the University of Copenhagen have discovered traces of oxygen in three-billion-year-old soil samples from South Africa. That means oxygen appeared in the atmosphere up to 700 million years earlier than we previously thought.

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