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Scientists Extract Metabolic Molecules From Million-Year-Old Fossils for the First Time
Fossils can reveal far more than the shapes of ancient creatures. Molecules preserved inside old animal bones provide clues about past diseases, what those animals ate, and the climates they lived in. For the first time, researchers have examined metabolism-related molecules preserved in fossiliz
Physicists made atoms behave like a quantum circuit
Using ultracold atoms and laser light, researchers recreated the behavior of a Josephson junction—an essential component of quantum computers and voltage standards. The appearance of Shapiro steps in this atomic system reveals a deep universality in quantum physics and makes elusive microscopic effects visible for the first time.
A navigator for better science reporting
Science touches nearly every beat in local journalism, yet many reporters lack the training or time to confidently navigate complex scientific topics. In this piece, Bob Sillick explains how The Open Notebook, in partnership with the Reynolds Journalism Institute, has launched the Science Reporting Navigator to close that gap. The new tool aims to help local journalists spot misinformation, understand research and bring scientific clarity to their daily reporting.
What cuts to research under Trump have meant for science in 2025
Trump administration officials say changes to federal agencies engaged in science were made in the interests of better science that benefits more Americans. Many scientists we spoke with disagree.
NYC unveils new tool to help New Yorkers compare health care prices, estimate out-of-pocket costs
The new website allows people to search for common procedures with or without insurance to see total prices at specific hospitals and facilities, and estimate their out-of-pocket costs.
Proposed Magnetic Cloak Could Make Sensitive Tech Practically Invisible
The cloak can shield objects of any shape from unwanted noise, the researchers say.
YOUR INPUT WANTED: Help shape the 2026 Delta Science Plan
The Delta Stewardship Council’s Delta Science Program has released the third iteration of the Delta Science Plan for public review. The Delta Science Plan outlines the vision, principles, and strategies guiding science in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. All members of the Delta science community and interested stakeholders are encouraged to provide input. This includes federal, state, and local agency scientists, tribes, non-governmental organizations, academic researchers, and members of the public who care about the future of the Delta. The Delta […]
CfA Science in the Press at AAS 247 | Center for Astrophysics
Cambridge, Mass. (December 22, 2025)— New scientific results from across the Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian (CfA) will be revealed at multiple press conferences and presentations during the 247th meeting of the American Astronomical Society (AAS) from January 5-8, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona.Presentations will highlight new research, including a deeper look into little red dots, a more complete census of active galactic nuclei, and uncovering properties of early universe dwarf galaxies, a look at Betelgeuse’s binary companion.
These 50+ Houston scientists rank among world’s most cited
Fifty-one scientists and professors from Houston-area universities and institutions were named among the most cited in the world for their research in medicine, materials sciences and an array of other fields.
Four lessons of science communication
A guided artistic experience helped me identify the core lessons I learned during my journey bridging research and communication.
This cancer-fighting molecule took 50 years to build
MIT scientists have achieved the first-ever lab synthesis of verticillin A, a complex fungal compound discovered in 1970. Its delicate structure stalled chemists for decades, despite differing from related molecules by only two atoms. With the synthesis finally complete, researchers created new variants that showed strong activity against a rare pediatric brain cancer. The breakthrough could unlock an entire class of previously unreachable cancer-fighting molecules.
A new drug could stop Alzheimer’s before memory loss begins
New research suggests Alzheimer’s may start far earlier than previously thought, driven by a hidden toxic protein in the brain. Scientists found that an experimental drug, NU-9, blocks this early damage in mice and reduces inflammation linked to disease progression. The treatment was given before symptoms appeared, targeting the disease at its earliest stage. Researchers say this approach could reshape how Alzheimer’s is prevented and treated.
Sports Injuries Worse During An Athlete's Period, Study Says
By Dennis Thompson HealthDay ReporterMONDAY, Dec. 22, 2025 (HealthDay News) — Sports injuries sustained by female athletes tend to be worse during their period, a new study reports. Injuries are more severe and take longer to heal during menstruation, researchers recently reported in the journal
December 22, 2025: Rural Health Symposium Opens Registration, Announces Call for Abstracts
The Duke University School of Nursing will convene healthcare professionals, educators, researchers, community leaders, and policymakers for a 1-day symposium dedicated to reducing rural health disparities across North Carolina through […]
University of Nevada faculty research black hole binary systems
Faculty, grad students at the University of Nevada, Reno, studying brightness of black hole jets
Mahmood Mamdani’s 'Slow Poison' centers politics of belonging in postcolonial Uganda : NPR's Book of the Day
Mahmood Mamdani — a professor of government at Columbia University and the father of Zohran Mamdani, NYC’s next mayor — has spent decades researching colonialism and its effects on the African continent. His work is both political and personal, influenced by his own experience in Uganda as an exiled citizen deemed nonindigenous by colonial structures. In today’s episode, Mamdani talks to NPR’s Leila Fadel about his newest book, Slow Poison, an account of colonial legacy in Uganda, the rise of the country’s modern autocrats, and the politics of belonging that surround it all.To listen to Book of the Day sponsor-free and support NPR's book coverage, sign up for Book of the Day+ at plus.npr.org/bookoftheday
Studies focusing on deteriorating neighborhoods, electronic health records, and gun trafficking highlight this month's research roundup
December's Research Roundup highlights a new approach for improving genetic risk prediction using electronic health records, how interstate gun trafficking
Choosing a hospital? See which California health facilities have violated the law
If you're struggling to navigate California's health care system, this tool can help. Search for any hospital, nursing home, clinic or other facility to see recent inspection reports, violations and potential references to patient harm.
This simulation reveals what really happens near black holes
Black holes are among the most extreme objects in the universe, and now scientists can model them more accurately than ever before. By combining Einstein’s gravity with realistic behavior of light and matter, researchers have built simulations that closely match real astronomical observations. These models reveal how matter forms chaotic, glowing disks and launches powerful outflows as it falls into black holes. It’s a major step toward decoding how these cosmic engines actually work.
This AI finds simple rules where humans see only chaos
A new AI developed at Duke University can uncover simple, readable rules behind extremely complex systems. It studies how systems evolve over time and reduces thousands of variables into compact equations that still capture real behavior. The method works across physics, engineering, climate science, and biology. Researchers say it could help scientists understand systems where traditional equations are missing or too complicated to write down.
A traditional Brazilian plant shows unexpected strength against arthritis
A Brazilian study has confirmed that Joseph’s Coat, a plant used for generations in folk medicine, can significantly reduce inflammation and arthritis symptoms in lab tests. Researchers observed less swelling, healthier joints, and signs of tissue protection. Just as important, the extract showed a promising safety profile at tested doses. The discovery could pave the way for new plant-based anti-inflammatory treatments.
Bob on Business: Fort Worth real estate group’s mental health nonprofit aids research
Also, scholarship funding from a Fort Worth business.
Scientists say they have discovered 20 new species deep in the Pacific Ocean
Researchers retrieved reef monitoring devices that had been placed in deep coral reefs in Guam. The devices were placed up to 330 feet below the surface.
Scientists say they have discovered 20 new species deep in the Pacific Ocean
Researchers retrieved reef monitoring devices that had been placed in deep coral reefs in Guam. The devices were placed up to 330 feet below the surface.
MIT Scientists Have Discovered a Way To Rejuvenate the Immune System
As the immune system weakens with age, researchers have found a way to temporarily boost its function by reprogramming liver cells to support T-cell development.
Deep sampling recovers a species forgotten by science since 1906
Researchers rediscover tiny tropical land snails, reclassifying lost species and reshaping the tree of life in Central America.
Is it really better to give than receive? It depends, expert says
Research shows that giving time, money or support to others is associated with benefits to well-being. But doing so isn’t always beneficial. Dr. Leana Wen explains.
Scientists who use AI tools are publishing more papers than ever before
Science is entering a massive publishing boom, in large part due to artificial intelligence. New research published in the journal Science has revealed that scientists who use large language models (LLMs) ...
Hidden seismic signals hint at a tsunami threat in Alaska
Researchers studying a massive landslide in Alaska have detected strange seasonal seismic pulses caused by water freezing and thawing in rock cracks. These faint signals could become an important early clue to changes that might someday trigger a dangerous landslide-driven tsunami.
Science says we’ve been nurturing “gifted” kids all wrong
A major international review has upended long-held ideas about how top performers are made. By analyzing nearly 35,000 elite achievers across science, music, chess, and sports, researchers found that early stars rarely become adult superstars. Most world-class performers developed slowly and explored multiple fields before specializing. The message is clear: talent grows through variety, not narrow focus.
Miami Dolphins to move on from Tua Tagovailoa; Offered 4 first-round picks for Joe Burrow ahead of 2020 NFL Draft
As the Miami Dolphins prepare to face the Bengals, and search for a new QB, an old rumor starts to resurface.
Science & Medicine: Can acupressure provide a safer pain relief alternative for people with dementia?
Many people dismiss alternative therapies like auricular — which means ear — acupressure as unscientific, but a UT Health San Antonio researcher thinks it may be an effective way to reduce chronic pain for people with dementia that doesn't carry the risks associated with opioid medication.
A Lifestyle Rx For Keeping Your Brain Young
By Carole Tanzer Miller HealthDay ReporterSUNDAY, Dec. 21, 2025 (HealthDay News) — Think the good thoughts. Manage stress. Get your Zzzzzs. And build a strong social support system. New research shows that these factors — all of which are within your control — are powerful anti-aging tools. "You can ...
Unemployment is low, but companies are slow to hire: How job seekers faced a Great Frustration in 2025
Job seekers in 2025 faced long searches, slow hiring, and growing frustration. They shared their biggest challenges and how they're coping.
Exclusive | ‘No need to explain’: leading mRNA vaccine expert Hu Haitao leaves US for China
China is catching up fast in mRNA-related fundamental research and technological development, Hu says.
Golden Knights put up ‘burn the tape’ game against Flames
The trip to Edmonton will be one of soul searching for the Vegas Golden Knights.
Trump administration plans to break up National Center for Atmospheric Research
Scientific organizations say the move is "dangerous" and would "hurt the economic health of the nation."
Top Strategies for Businesses to Gain AI Recommendations
How to Improve Your Business’s AI Search Visibility Washington, United States – December 17, 2025 / Monic AI Systems / How Businesses Can Improve Visibility in AI Search Tools Like ChatGPT As artificial intelligence tools such as ChatGPT increasingly influence how people find information and evaluate products and services, businesses are adjusting how they present […]
Georgia Southern alumnus lives on through posthumous work
The December 2025 issue of "Freshwater Science" will feature a special publication dedicated to the late José Sánchez-Ruiz, a former graduate student from Georgia Southern University's Department of Biology. His research on leaf decomposition in the Ogeechee River will be published posthumously, honoring his legacy.
Scientists found a hidden clock inside dinosaur eggshells
Researchers have found that fossilized dinosaur eggshells contain a natural clock that can reveal when dinosaurs lived. The technique delivers surprisingly precise ages and could revolutionize how fossil sites around the world are dated.
FY26 FDA Broad Agency Announcement: Advanced Research and Development of Regulatory Science
FY26 FDA Broad Agency Announcement: Advanced Research and Development of Regulatory Science / cancer, FDA, FY26, Headlines, OncoDaily, Oncology
Massive Japanese-Style Entertainment Center Officially Opens At Formers Sears In Houston
Round1 Bowling & Arcade has officially opened in the space at Willowbrook Mall in Houston formerly occupied by SEARS.
MSU faculty, students earn international honor for wood science innovation
A Mississippi State University research project born in the classroom and expanded through hands-on collaboration is earning international recognition for advancing wood science.
The real reason incomes rise and why they drop
Getting ahead financially is mainly about what you earn at work, not what you make from investments. Researchers found that promotions, skills, and better jobs drive most upward income movement. But when people slip backward, falling investment income is usually the main reason. Labor builds income steadily; capital is riskier and more unpredictable.
Sugar-free sweeteners may still be harming your liver
Sorbitol, a popular sugar-free sweetener, may not be as harmless as its label suggests. Researchers found it can be turned into fructose in the liver, triggering effects similar to regular sugar. Gut bacteria can neutralize some of it—but too much sorbitol or glucose can overwhelm that defense. The result: yet another “healthy” sweetener that may stress the liver.
G-Assist is 'real': NVIDIA unveils NitroGen, open-source AI model that can play 1000+ games for you
NitroGen can play Witcher 3, Cyberpunk or even Rocket League NVIDIA researchers and MineDojo collaborators have published NitroGen, a vision to action
Scientists build 'most accurate' quantum computing chip ever thanks to new silicon-based computing architecture
Researchers say they have created the world's first scalable atomic quantum processor that achieves record-breaking 99.99% fidelity.
‘Forever Chemicals’ Linked to Another Health Condition, Study Says
Researchers have found a new link between exposure to ‘forever chemicals’ and one lifelong health condition. A Sweden-based study found that people exposed to two major environmental toxins are more likely to be diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.
Wind-Sculpted Landscapes: Investigating the Martian Megaripple 'Hazyview'
Written by Noah Martin, Ph.D. student and Candice Bedford, Research Scientist at Purdue University
What scientists found inside Titan was not what anyone expected
For years, scientists thought Saturn’s moon Titan hid a global ocean beneath its frozen surface. A new look at Cassini data now suggests something very different: a thick, slushy interior with pockets of liquid water rather than an open sea. A subtle delay in how Titan deforms under Saturn’s gravity revealed this stickier structure. These slushy environments could still be promising places to search for life.
Impact on global mental health care delivery and research
According to the World Health Organization, more than 1 billion people worldwide live with a mental health condition, yet most do not receive adequate care. Persistent barriers such as underfunding, workforce…
Scientists push back on Trump plan to break up a critical climate and weather center
The White House plans to break up a key weather and climate research center in Colorado, a move experts say could jeopardize the accuracy of forecasting and prediction systems.
The Ten Most Significant Science Stories of 2025, From Medical Breakthroughs to an Interstellar Visitor
All year long, these moments captivated the public, demonstrated dangerous trends, and pushed research and innovation forward
An asteroid could hit the moon in 2032, scattering debris toward Earth
Researchers are keeping an eye on the building-sized asteroid 2024 YR4, which has a 4 percent chance of hitting the moon seven years from now.
Five Takeaways From the World’s Biggest Earth Science Meeting
The world’s biggest Earth science conference had a shocking backdrop this year, with the Trump administration announcing that it plans to close an iconic climate research lab. Suffice to say, that changed the tone of the gathering.
CTSI to host three-part virtual mini-series on team science
Penn State Clinical and Translational Science Institute (CTSI) will host a three-part virtual mini-series focused on team science, led by Susan Simkins, director of Team Science with Penn State CTSI. Designed for researchers, staff and leaders working in collaborative environments, the series will provide practical, evidence-based strategies to help teams function more effectively and avoid the misalignment that often can slow down good science.
Student found community, and a future in research through hockey and science
Hockey immersed Essix Moser in Kennesaw State University’s community. Neuroscience research showed him his future.
How Scientists Are Decoding Hawaiian Monk Seal Communication
Researchers uncover 20 new underwater calls from Hawaii’s endangered monk seals.
I work in a research lab and have kids under 7. These are the science-based gifts that they've enjoyed most over the years.
I'm a mother of 2 who works in a research lab. These are the STEM-based toys my kids have played with the most over the years.
I work in a research lab and have kids under 7. These are the science-based gifts that they've enjoyed most over the years.
I'm a mother of 2 who works in a research lab. These are the STEM-based toys my kids have played with the most over the years.
Can apple cider vinegar help support gut health? What the science says.
There’s been some research to back apple cider vinegar’s benefits for health, but how strong is the science behind it?
Where you give birth matters. Search our map to see C-section rates at hospitals near you.
C-section rates at individual hospitals are hard to find. Search our map by hospital name, city, state, or ZIP code to compare facilities near you.
Column | Feeling wonder every day improves our health. Here’s how to do it.
Research has established the power of awe. I experienced it myself in a way I never thought I could.
What the hyperproduction of AI slop is doing to science
A new study shows AI writing is turning traditional measures of research quality upside down.
Councilors advocate for science on Capitol Hill
ASBMB Councilors meet with their elected officials to advocate for basic scientific research funding and training the next generation of scientists.
Research powers agricultural science
Agricultural innovation requires more than ideas — it demands acres of land, barns full of livestock, fleets of equipment and teams of specialists who keep it all running. Few research
Dr. Ed Nowottnick
Ed Nowottnick serves as the program scientist for the Radiation Sciences Program for the Atmosphere within NASA’s Earth Science Division’s Research and
LLMs’ impact on science: Booming publications, stagnating quality
Once researchers turn to LLMs, paper counts go up, quality does not.
Weird and wonderful science: How elephant poop leads to guitars and 12 other unusual UCLA research findings from 2025
Check out 13 of the year's most unusual discoveries, which prove groundbreaking science doesn’t always look serious at first glance.
Trump signs order expediting marijuana reclassification after lobbying from cannabis industry
President Donald Trump signed an executive order Thursday to expedite the reclassification of marijuana – an effort to increase research on its medical use but not fully legalize it.
Trump aims to take down ‘global mothership’ of climate science
By moving to dismantle Colorado’s National Center for Atmospheric Research, the White House says it is targeting ‘climate alarmism’
Large Minnesota study underscores disproportionate rates of health problems among recently incarcerated and unhoused people
In a study of more than 4.3 million people in Minnesota, researchers found widespread disparities in health conditions between the general population and people who ...
The Trevor Project Condemns Federal Government Efforts to Restrict Health Care for Transgender Youth
Your Support Saves LGBTQ+Youth's Lives Every DayDonateResearch shows that access to transition-related care is associated with significantly lower rates of […]
RFK Jr.'s Health Department Just Pulled Millions in Funding from the American Academy of Pediatrics
The grants involved research studying autism and sudden infant deaths.
Branson Entertainment and the Idea of America. An interview with Dr. Joanna Dee Das.
Washington University professor Dr. Joanna Dee Das has done research at the intersection of live performance and history. Her latest book is titled "Faith, Family, and Flag: Branson Entertainment and the Idea of America." Dr. Das spoke with KSMU about her book earlier this month.
Kuo: iPhone Fold Production Challenges Could Limit Supply Next Year
Apple's highly anticipated foldable iPhone could face supply shortages into 2027 despite a planned launch next year, according to analyst Ming-Chi Kuo. Kuo said in a new research note: "Development of the foldable iPhone is behind earlier expectations, but the product is still expected to [sic] announce in 2H26. Due to early-stage yield and ramp-up challenges, smooth shipments may not occur until 2027.
US Plans to Dismantle Climate Science ‘Cornerstone’
It’s been labeled “scientific vandalism” and “a national security risk.” The Trump administration’s plan to dismantle the National Center for Atmospheric Research has outraged scientists and policymakers.
California’s Geospatial Science in Action
How our mapping, research, and advocacy help bring restoration planning to life.
Your body feels cold in two different ways
Researchers have uncovered that the body uses different molecular systems to sense cold in the skin versus internal organs. This explains why surface chills feel very different from cold experienced deep inside the body.
The Year in Science: The most impactful research stories of 2025
Work in fields such as health and medicine, the environment, engineering and technology innovation have put FIU on the map. And 2026 looks to be another blockbuster.
As dangerous eugenic ideas spread, NIH falls silent
Federal research agencies are pulling back from fostering public discussions about science after the hollowing out of government communications offices.
What I’ve learned by mapping the impacts of NIH cuts
The co-founder of SCIMaP looks at the year of NIH cuts — and what they say about the future of American research.
Science in 2026: the events to watch for in the coming year
Nature - The rise of AI scientists, missions to explore the moons of Earth and Mars and a massive ocean-floor drill are among the developments set to shape research in 2026.
Scientists spent 10 years chasing a particle that wasn’t there
After a decade of painstaking measurements, scientists have delivered a major plot twist in particle physics: a long-hypothesized “mystery particle” likely doesn’t exist. Using the MicroBooNE experiment at Fermilab, researchers analyzed neutrinos from two powerful beams and found no evidence for a sterile neutrino, ruling it out with 95% certainty.
This Jurassic Park science is now a reality
Researchers say they can use the talents of pesky blood-sucking mosquitoes to their benefit
John Kirwan is out as Pennington Biomedical’s executive director
After eight years at the helm of Pennington Biomedical Research Center, John Kirwan is stepping away from his role as executive director. In a letter sent to Pennington staff, Kirwan writes tha… Already an INSIDER? Sign in. We are glad you enjoy reading Business Report. Continue reading this story and get ACCESS to all our […]
Saturn's moon Titan may not have a buried ocean as suspected, study suggests
New research suggests Titan instead may hold deep layers of ice and slush more akin to Earth's polar seas instead of a buried ocean as long suspected.
Schmidt Gives Keynote Address for Political Trust Conference
Professor Vivien Ann Schmidt gave the opening keynote address, titled Political Trust and Legitimacy in the Age of Populism, for the Political Trust conference, organized by CEVIPOF at the French Political Science School at Sciences Po in Paris on December 5, 2025. This year’s conference, named Political Trust: A Challenge for Democracies, brought together researchers from…
Gemini app adds 3 Flash ‘Fast’ and ‘Thinking’ models, with 3 ‘Pro’
With today’s launch, Gemini 3 Flash is widely rolling out to the Gemini app and AI Mode in Search. This is one...
In aftermath of January wildfires, ER visits surged amid alarming health effects, study finds
For the first time, researchers have been able to study the direct health effects the January wildfires had on Angelenos.
Google launches Gemini 3 Flash, makes it the default model in the Gemini app
Google is making Gemini 3 Flash the default model in the Gemini app and oAI model for Search
The Most Powerful Politics Influencers Barely Post About Politics
New research shows that social media creators have enormous influence over their audiences' politics—especially those who don't normally share political content.
Trump administration plans to break up largest federal climate research center
Russ Vought, director of the White House Office of Management and Budget, said the National Science Foundation "will be breaking up" the National Center for Atmospheric Research in Colorado.
A new era for sports communication at UNC Hussman | UNC Hussman School of Journalism and Media
As director of UNC Hussman’s Sports Communication Focus Program, Distinguished Associate Professor of Sports Communication Livis Freeman is building on the work of the school’s legendary Distinguished Professor for Sports Communication John Sweeney. Sweeney, who retired last year, developed one of the most respected sports communication programs in the country. Freeman, now in his 12th year at the school, is launching an ambitious expansion of the program that is transforming how UNC prepares students for careers in sports media. The most visible change came this fall with a reimagining of “MEJO 377: Sports Communication.” Previously offered as two sections with 30 students each, the course expanded to 96 students and welcomed former UNC basketball star and NBA veteran Tyler Hansbrough as the co-instructor with Freeman, bringing real world professional experience directly into the classroom every week. The course has been a huge success. Students have participated in recording a podcast with Hansbrough and learned from an impressive lineup of guest speakers. Steve Kirschner, UNC’s senior associate director of athletics for communications, was the first in the course’s guest speaker series, followed by UNC Hussman alumni including Kaitlyn Schmidt ’23 from Bleacher Report, Deaton Bell ’90 from Turner Sports and Becca Royer ’19 from the Philadelphia 76ers. Travis Tygart, CEO of the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency, also shared his insights with the class. The highlight of the semester came when Roy Williams, who coached Hansbrough and the Tar Heels to a national championship in 2009, visited the classroom. Former UNC men’s basketball players Luke Maye and Marcus Ginyard showed up to support their former coach and Hansbrough, creating an unforgettable experience as Williams entertained students with stories and insights that captivated the room. Student demand has been overwhelming. The course reached capacity within two days of registration opening, with more than 40 students on the waitlist. “Students want to learn from people who have actually lived these experiences,” Freeman said. “Tyler shares insights into media relations, broadcast production and athlete communications that you simply can’t get from a textbook.” The model proved so successful that the school secured funding to continue it for the next five years, with a different former professional athlete co-teaching each fall. The school’s curriculum committee approved a proposal to expand the course to 150 to 200 students starting in fall 2026. This change will make it an introductory course accessible to students from across the University, transforming it into a showcase course for the entire campus. The course redesign represents just one piece of a broader sports communication program overhaul. This fall, the curriculum committee approved “MEJO 390: Sports Play by Play,” the first course of its kind at UNC. Limited to 10 advanced students, the course will be taught by Matt Krause, the current voice of UNC women’s basketball and an ACC Network broadcaster. Students will call actual games across multiple sports including women’s softball, soccer, volleyball, field hockey and lacrosse, as well as men’s soccer and lacrosse. They will also shadow broadcasts of men’s and women’s basketball games. “The sports broadcasting industry is exploding with streaming platforms and conference networks creating unprecedented demand,” Freeman said. The course emerged directly from student advocacy, led by Anna Laible ’26 and others who pushed for hands-on broadcasting experience. Professional equipment has been acquired, partnerships with UNC Athletics are in place and a soft launch began this semester with three experienced students calling games to test the system. The program’s growth extends into other specialized areas as well. Last spring, Stembler Professor Charlie Tuggle launched a new sports event management and hospitality course in partnership with On Location, a company that manages major sporting event experiences. The course provided students with opportunities to travel to the Super Bowl and NFL Draft, and Tuggle plans to take a group to the 2026 Milan Olympics this spring. Looking ahead to spring 2026, Associate Professor Ryan Thornburg will debut a sports data visualization course, adding another dimension to the program’s skill-building offerings. The curriculum expansion reflects the increasingly diverse career paths available in sports media, from traditional journalism and broadcasting to digital analytics and strategic communication. The program is also diving into one of college athletics’ most transformative developments: Name, Image and Likeness rights. Freeman’s “MEJO 466: Sports Marketing” class collaborated last spring with Associate Professor Gary Kayye’s “MEJO 371: Advertising Creative” class on a project with UNC’s Carolina NIL group to help rebrand their organization. That same semester, Kayye’s class envisioned Chapel Thrill, UNC football’s new pregame concert and entertainment experience. And Shaun Anderson, the school’s Knight Chair in Sports, Race and Media, continues to explore the broader implications of NIL through his research and teaching. These NIL-focused initiatives give students direct exposure to the business side of college athletics at a moment when the landscape is rapidly evolving. “Our students aren’t just learning about these changes,” Freeman said. “They’re actively helping shape how schools and athletes navigate them.” The transformation of UNC Hussman’s sports communication program reflects a broader philosophy about how to prepare students for careers in a rapidly changing industry. By bringing in professional practitioners like Hansbrough and Krause, partnering with industry leaders like On Location and ACC Network, and engaging with current issues like NIL, the program ensures students graduate with both theoretical knowledge and practical experience. For alumni who remember the foundations John Sweeney built, the expansion represents an evolution rather than a departure. The program still emphasizes strong reporting, strategic communication, ethical communication and critical thinking. But now it also offers students the chance to call live games, work on real NIL campaigns and learn directly from former professional athletes. “We’re not just teaching students about sports media,” Freeman said. “We’re giving them the tools, experiences and connections to actually build careers in it.” With new courses launching, professional partnerships deepening and enrollment expanding, UNC Hussman’s sports communication program is positioning itself as a national leader in preparing the next generation of sports media professionals. For current students, the message is clear: if you’re interested in sports communication, there’s never been a better time to be at UNC Hussman. And for the hundreds of students trying to get off waitlists and into these new courses, the school is working to create more opportunities. The program John Sweeney built is growing in ways that honor his legacy while meeting the demands of a new era in sports media.
Scientists Denounce Trump's Plan to Kill Crucial Atmospheric Science Center
The U.S. government is dismantling the National Center for Atmospheric Research, jettisoning key climate science projects in the process
Vought says National Science Foundation to break up federal climate, weather research center
The National Science Foundation will “break up” a climate and weather research lab in Colorado, according to White House Office of Management and Budget Director Russell Vought. The Foundation, an …
Trump’s second term is reshaping US science with unprecedented cuts and destabilizing policy changes
The Trump administration is rewriting the 80-year-old American social contract for science research.
Trump’s second term is reshaping US science with unprecedented cuts and destabilizing policy changes
The Trump administration is rewriting the 80-year-old American social contract for science research.
Nike cofounder Phil Knight tops 2025 donations with $2 billion gift
Phil Knight's $2 billion cancer research pledge leads the list of the 2025 largest donations, with Buffett and Bezos also making notable gifts.
AI learns to build simple equations for complex systems
A research team at Duke University has developed a new AI framework that can uncover simple, understandable rules that govern some of the most complex dynamics found in nature and technology.