News

Flat, pancake-sized metalens images lunar surface in an engineering first

Astronomers and amateurs alike know the bigger the telescope, the more powerful the imaging capability. To keep the power but streamline one of the bulkier components, a Penn State-led research team created the first ultrathin, compact metalens telescope capable of imaging far-away objects, including the moon.

New partnership will address health and food safety challenges in Kenya

Representatives from Penn State, Meru University of Science and Technology, and Meru County in Kenya signed a memorandum of understanding today (March 2) in a ceremony in Kenya to formally commence their new partnership. This collaboration also will involve the Technical University of Denmark.

Wasps harness power of pitcher plants in first-ever observed defense strategy

As the saying goes, “When life gives you lemons, turn that tartness into little translucent balls in which to grow your young.”

Guarding the genome: Researchers uncover full 3D structure of p53 protein

The tumor suppressor protein p53, known as "the guardian of the genome," protects the body’s DNA from daily stress or long-term damage by triggering the cells to make repairs or to self-destruct.

New predictive models developed for bacterial diversity of soils

A new set of quantitative models that incorporates pH into the metabolic theory of ecology (MTE) has been developed by an international team that includes Penn State assistant professor of plant science Francisco Dini-Andreote.

Rare insect found at Arkansas Walmart sets historic record, prompts mystery

A giant insect plucked from the façade of an Arkansas Walmart has set historic records. The Polystoechotes punctata or giant lacewing is the first of its kind recorded in eastern North America in over 50 years — and the first record of the species ever in the state.

Blood test for brain cancer may be on horizon, new research finds

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common and deadliest type of brain cancer with a five-year survival rate of only 5%. Researchers at Penn State College of Medicine have identified a biomarker that can be used in blood tests to diagnose GBM, track its progression and guide treatment.

Processing, like fermentation and roasting, doesn’t cut cocoa’s health benefits

It is widely believed that when foods undergo processing, their health benefits are reduced. But that is not true for cocoa, according to a Penn State-led team of researchers, who conducted a new study using a mouse model.

McGraw elected as a Fellow of the American Academy of Microbiology

Elizabeth "Beth" McGraw, professor and department head of biology and Huck Scholar in Entomology at Penn State, has been elected as a Fellow of the American Academy of Microbiology.

Nobel Prize-winning Penn State alumnus Paul Berg dies

Penn State alumnus Paul Berg, who received the 1980 Nobel Prize in chemistry, died Feb. 15 at his home in Stanford, California, surrounded by loved ones. He was 96.