The January 2021 College of Science Graduate Newsletter
Welcome to Spring Semester 2021
Happy New Year, College of Science Graduate Students!

We’re glad to have you with us, as we begin a new year and Spring Semester 2021.

As we dive into our studies, research, activities and employment, I encourage you to continue to follow health guidelines and information outlined by the university at https://www.usu.edu/covid-19/. The level of virus transmission remains high and it’s important we work together to ensure each other’s safety and a successful semester.

We know current circumstances are challenging, but we’re also confident in your commitment and ability to rise to the situation. Know that our Dean’s Office team, your Graduate Program Coordinators (GPCs), faculty and staff are here to help.

Wishing you all the best this semester. Go, Aggies!

Sean Johnson
Associate Dean, Graduate Studies
USU College of Science
Meet April Phinney
from the Department of Geosciences
April Phinney is Geology MS student also enrolled in the Climate Adaptation Science Program at Utah State University. She is working with Tammy Rittenour to explore how forest fires on the Kaibab Plateau north of the Grand Canyon have shaped the landscape, and understand if the 2020 Mangum Fire burned hotter than previous fires...
Meet the GPC: Kelly Bradbury, Geosciences
Kelly Bradbury, professional practice assistant professor in the Department of Geosciences, is this month’s featured Graduate Program Coordinator (GPC).
BNR Renovations Complete
The Biology-Natural Resources [BNR] Building has been beautifully renovated and is ready for your return. Enjoy a spacious new foyer, along with remodeled labs, classrooms and offices.
“Vaccine Fears” Topic for Science Unwrapped Friday, Jan. 22
Join us on Zoom Friday, Jan. 22, at 7 pm MST, as USU neurobiologist Thayne Sweeten presents, “Vaccine Fears: Fact and Fiction.” An online Q&A follows Dr. Sweeten’s talk, during which he’ll discuss public concerns raised by a number of immunizations, including new COVID-19 vaccines.

Spring 2021 Series:
  • Jan. 22: Neurobiologist Thayne Sweeten, “Vaccine Fears”
  • Feb. 19: Biochemist Ryan Jackson, “Genetic Engineering”
  • March 19: Political Scientist Jeannie Johnson, “Surveillance vs. Public Safety”
  • April 16: Physiologist and Ethicist Andy Anderson, “Medical Ethics”
Want to Get Involved in STEM Outreach?
Creating a learning activity video is a great way to get involved in volunteer STEM outreach. Contact Mary-Ann Muffoletto, maryann.muffoletto@usu.edu, for information.

View previous videos here.
Jan. 20
  • Geo Seminar: Welcome Back Seminar at 3:30 pm | More Info
  • Chemistry & Biochemistry Seminar: “Plastic Rain in Protected Areas of the United States” at 4 pm | More Info
  • USU Sorenson Center for Clinical Excellence Webinar: “Coping with Loss During COVID-19” at 5:30 pm | More Info
  • Science Unwrapped: “Vaccine Fears” at 7 pm | More Info

Jan. 25
  • Geo Seminar: Folarin Kolawole works for BP and will present on Fault Reactivation at 3:30 pm | More Info

Jan. 26
  • Biology Seminar: "The Map of Biodiversity Importance: Using Machine Learning and Collaborative Science to Conserve Imperiled Species" at 3:30 pm | More Info

Jan. 27
  • Chemistry & Biochemistry Seminar: Olsen Speaker Series welcomes Professor William Fenical at 4 pm | More Info

Feb. 1
  • Geo Seminar: Grad Student Progress Reports at 3:30 | More Info

Feb. 2
  • Biology Seminar: "Science Policy and Career Opportunities" at 3:30 pm | More Info

Feb. 3
  • Chemistry & Biochemistry Seminar: “Near-field Optical Spectroscopy for the Study of Semiconducting Nanostructures” at 4 pm | More Info

Feb. 9
  • Biology Seminar: "Biodiversity Under Environmental Change in Large-Scale and Long-Term Studies" at 3:30 pm | More Info

Feb. 10
  • Geo Seminar: Colin Philips, from USU, will present on Streams and Sediment at 3:30 pm | More Info
  • Chemistry & Biochemistry Seminar: “Two Vignettes: Opine Metallophore and Riboflavin Biosynthesis by Human Pathogens” at 4 pm | More Info

Feb. 15

Feb. 16
  • Biology Seminar: "Beyond the Walls: Applied Research at Public Zoos and Aquariums" at 3:30 pm | More Info