Harvesting olives
With techniques such as mechanical tree-shaking and pruning, UC Davis researchers are developing reliable and cost-effective ways to sustain an industry that has a fruitful and long history in California.
Robosquirrels vs. rattlesnakes
UC Davis researchers go into rattlesnake country to study the interaction between snakes and squirrels. The snakes are real, but the squirrel is a robot.
Washing out tooth decay
A revolutionary mouthwash developed by a UCLA microbiologist carries the first anti-cavity drug since fluoride was introduced nearly 60 years ago.
New ship a powerful research tool
A Scripps Institution of Oceanography vessel, funded by the U.S. Navy, will help scientists better understand how the Earth and environment work.Firepower: getting most out of little flame
Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory scientists invented “ultraclean low swirl combustion.” Their commercialized burners are cheaper than the traditional kind and they don’t cause pollution.
Turning tobacco into fuel
Scientists at UC Berkeley and Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory use light to convert carbon in tobacco leaves into biofuels.
Looking at geological structures in 3D
New software enables students and researchers to visualize, map and model seismic data from subsurface sedimentary deposits.
Answer may be blowing in the wind
Scientists at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory are working with a Norwegian company, named SWAY, to leverage offshore wind as a possible and valuable energy source.
Inventing medical devices for children
The UCSF ‘D’Vice Squad’ teams physicians, engineers and other scientists to develop devices that will improve the health of children. (More information)
Capturing light, controling heat
Researchers at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory have developed a nanocrystal material that could add a critical energy-saving dimension to “smart window” coatings.
Looking for life on Mars
In preparing for the next Mars rover project, a UC Davis geologist is developing ways to probe rock structures on the planet. Martian rocks could offer clues whether the planet environment, before or now, could support life.
Keeping fans, athletes safe if the Big One hits
UC Berkeley researchers, who are experts in earthquakes, are playing a key role in the renovation of campus’ Memorial Stadium, which straddles the Hayward Fault.
Creating virtual reality avatars
Instead of producing movie blockbusters, UC Merced researchers are creating more realistic human motions for lifelike virtual characters. They can be viewed and used in a variety of ways, including learning tasks.
Getting down to the nanometer
UC Berkeley scientists, in collaboration with the national labs, have devised a nanoscale testing technique that could be invaluable in making sure nuclear facilities and the materials inside them are safe for years to come.
Heading into near-zero gravity
UC San Diego students are in Houston, on a NASA plane, this week to investigate what happens in the heads of astronauts during weightlessness. They are part of NASA's Microgravity University, which offers selected students a rare chance to do research in near-zero gravity.
Turning nutshells into power
A UC Discovery Grant created a partnership between UC researchers and a Woodland startup, which is converting wastes into biofuels.
Sing, sing a song
It is not always quite simple, but UCSF neuroscientists use computer technology to figure out how songbirds perfect their tune. Findings could help create tools for people rehabilitating from neuromuscular diseases and injuries.
Cool pavements
On sweltering days you can fry an egg on them. But, now, Lawrence Berkeley Lab and UC Davis researchers are testing surfaces designed to make them cooler and safer.
Airing out ozone's choking effect
UC Irvine scientists and engineers study the sources and effects of air pollution.Boosting state's olive growth, processing
The UC Davis Olive Center, a university and industry coalition, seeks to do for olives what the campus did for wine.
Cell phone-based sensor spots dangerous bacteria
UCLA scientists have developed a cell phone attachment that acts as a microscope and detects E.coli, which contaminates food and drinking water.More than just hot air
UC Riverside students came up with a solar-powered system that can nix clothes dryers and save homeowners money. They’ve won a $90,000 grant to help commercialize the system.
Floating robots track water flow
UC Berkeley researchers have developed a method using GPS-enabled smartphones to learn about the quality, volume, speed and direction of the flow of water through the Sacramento Delta.
Leaping lizards
UC Berkeley scientists, who study motion, looked at how lizards use their tails. Their findings can help design robots that can be used in search, rescue or disaster situations.
Getting the picture of science
At UC Santa Cruz’s OpenLab, artists and researchers collaborate to produce innovative multimedia and designs to explain science.
Revealing the movies in our mind
UC Berkeley scientists use brain imaging and computer simulation to decode and reconstruct dynamic visual experiences.
Doing science, not just telling it
UC Riverside this year opened an innovative laboratory, “The Dynamic Genome,” which gives freshmen the kind of experimental research experience usually reserved for upper classmen or graduate students. (More information)
Putting new technology into an old play
A UC Santa Cruz program mixes digital arts and traditional dramatic structures to create an entertaining hybrid of live theater.
Mining bacteria
A UCSF scientist studies the interactions of the scores of bacteria inside us and our skin. These natural drug-producing microbes can potentially yield new therapies.
Making city water systems flow
A new UC Berkeley research center is re-inventing the country’s urban water infrastructure, which is worn from age, population growth and the effects of climate change.
The call of the Arctic
Scientists at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography at UC San Diego deploy new technology that records the kaleidoscope of songs and sounds from marine animals in the Arctic. It will help understand the effect of global warming on animals in that region.
A critical research zone in the Sierra
With the help of wireless sensors, UC researchers observe the cycle of water deep in the soil. Their studies will track how our water and forests respond to climate change.
Graduate students form nanotech startup
UCSF and UC Berkeley grads are developing an implant that will deliver precise doses of lifesaving drugs directly into the bloodstream.