SCROLL NEWS / DISCOVERY
Search headlines
Find the stories shaping the conversation.
Results for " investigates " 135 found 🔀 AI-powered Shuffle
Nina Dietz to Discuss the Public Health Impacts of Wildfires at the Milken Institute
Image The Department of Global Health at George Washington University’s Milken Institute School of Public Health will host Pulitzer Center grantee and freelance journalist Nina Dietz at a Research and Practice Seminar. On Thursday, November 12, 2026, from 2:00pm-3:00pm EST, Dietz will present on her Pulitzer Center-supported project The Toxic Side of Climate Change. The project investigates the hazards left behind by urban wildfires in Los Angeles and examines the long-term risks these toxins pose to affected communities. The project also explores what remains in the ash and debris after a fire, and how those materials impact public health. Dietz is a writer, documentarian, and journalist reporting from a background rooted in both science and the humanities. Her work has appeared in New Lines Magazine, Inside Climate News, Science Friday, and at Photoville, among others.
Brazil investigates Amazon wildfires that disrupt daily life and have fueled political attacks
SAO PAULO (AP) — Brazilian authorities are investigating whether a recent surge in wildfires in the Amazon rainforest have been set on purpose for political motives ahead of the second round of presidential elections later this month.
Brazil investigates Amazon wildfires that disrupt daily life and have fueled political attacks
Brazilian authorities are investigating whether a recent surge in Amazon wildfires was orchestrated.
Computational Models as Liminal Models in Neuroscience, a Cognitive Science Speaker Series Presentation | Events
Speaker: Danielle Williams, Ph.D. Title: Computational Models as Liminal Models in Neuroscience Short Bio: Danielle is a philosopher of mind and science whose research examines the role of computation in our theories and explanations of the mind and brain. Her work brings together philosophy of mind, cognitive science, neuroscience, and artificial intelligence, with particular interests in computational theories of mind, computational modeling, and the relationship between different explanatory and modeling strategies in the mind sciences. She also investigates philosophical questions raised by contemporary AI, including the nature of opacity in computational models and its implications for explanation in cognitive science. Alongside this work, she is a historian of cognitive science and AI, examining how the development of computer technology has shaped our conceptions and models of the mind and brain. Abstract: Scientists rely on various types of models to make sense of their phenomena of interest. This has led philosophers to take up a range of semantic, ontological, and epistemological questions about how models represent, what kinds of things models are, what we learn from models, and how they explain. One type of model that has been of particular interest to philosophers is the computational model. Computational models are commonplace in the mind sciences in general and neuroscience in particular, with many asking how computational modeling can help us understand the nervous system and its contribution to cognition and behavior. These questions are particularly pressing in neuroscience, as computational models have become a dominant framework for making sense of cognition. Thus, old questions about model-based science have re-emerged within the context of neuroscience, with many philosophers looking to established frameworks to understand how computational models represent, explain, and contribute to theory development in neuroscience. These established frameworks, however, characterize computational models as a homogeneous type which cannot capture actual modeling practices in neuroscience. In this talk, I argue that computational models in neuroscience are best typed as a kind of liminal model, a type I introduce to capture how the status of a computational model is determined by the epistemic context in which it is deployed. Indeed, the category to which a computational model belongs shifts according to the role it plays within a given context. ASL-English interpreters have been requested. Light refreshments will be provided.
Secret Source: Industry insiders reveal the truth about bad business
Whistleblowers from the world's biggest industries let us in on dodgy, dangerous and illegal practices
PDRN skin care: What the science really says about 2026’s hottest ingredient
For the second article in Cosmetics Business’ ‘Bench to bottle’ series, Rinki Pramanik investigates the science behind PDRN, and if this trending ingredient is just an attractive INCI name, or offers meaningful results
'Staff are scared and exhausted' Concerns raised by Health Department after resident died at Hopkinton assisted living residence
After a resident died in a 99-degree room at the assisted living facility, documents obtained by 5 Investigates show temperatures nearing 90 degrees in several areas of the building.
HHS Launches Agency-Wide Actions to Strengthen Vaccine Injury Research, Reporting, and Patient Care
HHS launched a series of actions to strengthen how the federal government identifies, documents, investigates, and responds to health problems.
JRC science for digital wellbeing
The JRC investigates the implications of digital technologies on people’s health and wellbeing, providing evidence to support EU digital policies. In an era of rapid digital transformation, understanding how technology shapes our well-being is critical.
ANF Investigates: Allegiance Health plans to sell 2 struggling Acadiana hospitals
Allegiance Health Management plans to sell four financially struggling rural hospitals in Louisiana, including two in Acadiana, at the directive of the Louisiana Department of Health. The two Acadiana hospitals involved are Mercy Regional Medical Center in Ville Platte and Acadian Medical Center in Eunice. Both facilities have dealt with a number of problems, including unpaid payroll taxes, broken equipment, overdue bills, the loss of doctors and staff, and a shortage of critical supplies.
ANF Investigates: Allegiance Health plans to sell 2 struggling Acadiana hospitals
Allegiance Health Management plans to sell four financially struggling rural hospitals in Louisiana, including two in Acadiana, at the directive of the Louisiana Department of Health. The two Acadiana hospitals involved are Mercy Regional Medical Center in Ville Platte and Acadian Medical Center in Eunice. Both facilities have dealt with a number of problems, including unpaid payroll taxes, broken equipment, overdue bills, the loss of doctors and staff, and a shortage of critical supplies.
ANF Investigates: Allegiance Health plans to sell 2 struggling Acadiana hospitals
Allegiance Health Management plans to sell four financially struggling rural hospitals in Louisiana, including two in Acadiana, at the directive of the Louisiana Department of Health. The two Acadiana hospitals involved are Mercy Regional Medical Center in Ville Platte and Acadian Medical Center in Eunice. Both facilities have dealt with a number of problems, including unpaid payroll taxes, broken equipment, overdue bills, the loss of doctors and staff, and a shortage of critical supplies.
Say Your Prayers: An Exclusive First Look at Scarlett Johansson in The Exorcist: Martyrs
In Mike Flanagan’s new film, she investigates slayings modeled on the gruesome suffering of saints. But the suspect may be truly inhuman.
Blue Turf Thinkers: Biomedical Research Institute investigates harmful diseases
At each Boise State home football game, the “Blue Turf Thinkers” series honors outstanding groups...
Jagex responds to use of generative AI in RuneScape trailer made by "trusted external partner"
Developer removes promotional material as it investigates situation, says it highlights "an issue with our own processes which we must address"
Aboriginal historian Barry Corr vividly investigates colonisation – but is less convincing on politics
What right did settler society have to intervene in Aboriginal life? The humanitarian tradition has no adequate answers, says Barry Corr.
From saunas to psychedelics, how a health reporter sorts science from hype
A reporting trip to a sauna conference in Oslo found NPR's Will Stone in a sauna with his clothes and recording gear. In this reporter's notebook, he explains how he investigates the science behind wellness claims.
From saunas to psychedelics, how a health reporter sorts science from hype
A reporting trip to a sauna conference in Oslo found NPR's Will Stone in a sauna with his clothes and recording gear. In this reporter's notebook, he explains how he investigates the science behind wellness claims.
WINK News to host Medicare Help Center as 50,000 Lee Health patients face insurance changes
WINK Investigates is hosting a special event to help answer pressing questions from the community.
Prosecutors now reviewing case involving two Mobile businesses
FOX10 Investigates has learned the Mobile Police Department has handed over the All Weather Roofing & Construction/ Window Depot USA of Mobile case to the Mobile County District Attorney’s Office.
Pa. Health Department reverses course on new disease-tracking guidance, for now
Pennsylvania’s Department of Health has rescinded a 502-page proposal that could’ve given the agency more control over how it tracks and investigates the spread of diseases — and that spelled out the measures officials can take in response.
Can Science Solve Smoke Taint?
With wildfires an increasing problem worldwide, Chris Boiling investigates the solutions to smoke taint. Read the latest wine news & opinion on wine-searcher
Lewis County investigates ‘confirmed’ case of measles
Lewis County Public Health announced it is “investigating one confirmed case of measles in an unvaccinated resident.”
JCPD investigates threatening graffiti at business tied to gubernatorial candidate Hatley
The Johnson City Police Department is investigating after threatening graffiti was found Thursday morning on a Johnson City business connected to Tennessee gube
Australia Investigates OpenAI Hack on Public Health Care Site
Australia is exploring potential legal action after an artificial intelligence agent accessed nonpublic information on the country’s universal health care system.
KCCI Investigates: HHS revamping county health departments to regions
Iowa’s 99 public county health departments are set to shift budgets and services under a new regionalization plan led by the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services.
Taylor data center faces state investigation over parkland conveyance
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton investigates a proposed data center development on land intended for parkland in Taylor.
Conspiracy and politics: How a man ran a St. Louis County city from behind bars
While in the St. Louis County jail, now-former Riverview Mayor Michael Cornell made significant changes in the city’s government and police department, jail call recordings obtained by First Alert 4 Investigates uncovered.
FBI investigates suspected ricin exposure at Michigan apartment, hospital
Health officials say ricin is a natural poison that comes from the beans of the castor plant or oil. It is harmful if swallowed, injected or breathed in.
Ohio cannabis store voluntarily closes as state investigates ‘serious health events’
Arizona-based Vext Science said late last week it had voluntarily shuttered a cannabis store in Jackson, Ohio amid a health investigation.
Fast business funding: Big fees, few protections for merchant cash advances
A Colorado man says he lost $4,000 after applying for online business funding tied to Goldman Financial. Denver7 Investigates examines merchant cash advances, complaints, fees and industry oversight.
Texas Attorney General investigates military healthcare contractor TriWest
Following a report for the series “The Cost of Denial,” Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton announced an investigation into the company at the center of the Nightly News story. NBC News’ Erin McLaughlin reports.
Texas AG Paxton investigates military healthcare contractor over denied claims
Paxton cited an NBC News investigation into TriWest Healthcare Alliance, one of the contractors that administers the military’s healthcare benefits.
Beijing investigates researchers after Student Geng allegations
NSFC names more than 40 researchers at 31 institutions in its biggest disclosure to date, following blogger’s allegations in April.
Harris County spends $1.2M daily on free employee healthcare
As Harris County property owners face the possibility of another tax hit, 13 Investigates is digging into how the county is spending your money.
Caesars Entertainment Investor Alert: Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC Investigates Adequacy of Price and Process in Proposed Sale of Caesars Entertainment, Inc.
Former Attorney General of Louisiana Charles C. Foti, Jr., Esq. and the law firm of Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC (“KSF”) are investigating the proposed sale of Cae...
Justin Parent on unlocking the science of resilience in kids
Penn GSE associate professor Justin Parent investigates how childhood adversity becomes biologically embedded, with the goal of identifying opportunities to intervene early and help children thrive.
Boston Scientific hit by cyberattack causing ‘disruptions’ to parts of its business
This year has seen a growing number of medtechs hit by cyberattacks, and now Boston Scientific has become the latest victim. In an SEC filing posted Aug. 26, the medtech giant said it had detected a “cybersecurity incident” the day before. The incident has affected certain parts of its information technology systems, something that “has resulted in a global disruption to the company’s operations.” The incident has hit not just its information systems but also its business applications, which “support aspects of the Company’s operations,” it said in the filing. This includes its ability to process and ship customer orders. Boston Scientific said it is working to restore the systems, but the timeline remains unknown. Related Baylor Genetics hit by cybersecurity attack targeting patient, staff information As the company investigates the incident, it remains unclear how significantly its business will be affected. “Accordingly, the Company has not yet determined whether the incident is reasonably likely to have a material impact.” The company’s shares were down 3.5% in premarket trading as the news broke. This adds another layer of pressure for the medtech, which last month revealed a new global restructuring program that starts this year and is slated to be completed by 2029. The company said at the time that it “does expect some headcount reductions to result from these restructuring activities,” but did not provide any numbers or specify areas where the cuts may be made. It added, however, that new jobs are also set to be “created in areas of growth.” It was also forced to cut its sales guidance in Q2, saying in late July that it now expects full-year 2026 organic revenue growth of 5% to 6%, down from its previous guidance of 6.5% to 8%. Boston Scientific is one of a growing number of life sciences companies, notably medtechs, that have been hit by cyberattacks this year. These include Abbott, iRhythm, Medtronic and Stryker, as well as Big Pharmas Amgen and Novo Nordisk.
Suspended Columbus home health provider disputes patient, investigation claims
A home health care provider facing a Medicaid fraud investigation has provided ABC6 Investigates proof of its Ohio business registration and is disputing a pati
NBC CT Investigates: Why did a century old business shut down?
A Connecticut manufacturing company that has operated for more than a century has closed its doors, with its longtime owner citing soaring business expenses and tariffs as key reasons for the decision. Leed-Himmel Industries, a custom aluminum manufacturing company based in Hamden, has been winding down operations after decades of serving customers. The closure did not come as a surprise…
WRAL Investigates: WakeMed eyes $919 million expansion as Atrium deal faces uncertain future
Researcher-artist paves the way for science communication
Lulu Perez ‘26 is a behavioral neurosciences alumna. She is a researcher in an FIU lab that investigates how complex sugars can regulate immune and cancer cell function and slow cancer progression. She is also an artist. Perez attended an arts-focused school, where she learned to paint in traditional mediums like acrylic, oil and watercolors,
Coast Guard investigates charter boat business on Lake Champlain
A Burlington-area charter boat business is under investigation after authorities say a captain broke multiple rules.
Increasing liquor prices: public health or revenue? ABC says proposal is both
A North Carolina proposal to raise the price of some of the cheapest liquor sold in the state is being presented in part as a public health measure, but a WRAL Investigates review of the ABC report shows public health is only part of the equation.
Japan football association investigates four referees over KFA sexual entertainment allegations
The JFA is investigating four Japanese referees linked to matches cited in allegations that the KFA provided sexual entertainment to foreign officials in 2011 and 2012.
Senate Panel Will Examine Small Business Pressures
Senate committee investigates tariffs and lending challenges facing small businesses. Hear how rising costs impact Main Street entrepreneurs this week.
Senate Panel To Examine Biotech's Role in U.S. Health Resilience
Senate Finance Committee investigates biotech's impact on U.S. health resilience as China gains pharmaceutical advantage. Hear expert testimony August 4.
Novant Health investigates suspicious intruder at medical center
The incident occurred on July 25 and prompted a response from the Matthews Police Department.
Reincarnation: What Science Says and Doesn’t (or Can’t) Say
Inside a University of Virginia lab, scientists have spent nearly six decades gathering unsettling evidence: children who recall violent deaths, bear matching birthmarks, and know facts they never could have learned. A grieving skeptic investigates whether reincarnation might just be real.
SAPD officers suspended after man in mental health crisis brought gun into hospital, records show
Two San Antonio police officers were handed a month-long suspension after records show they failed to search a man experiencing a mental health crisis who was carrying a stolen gun, according to records reviewed by KSAT Investigates.
Texas investigates major tampon, cosmetics manufacturers for alleged deceptive health claims
The Texas Attorney General's office has launched sweeping, industry-wide investigations into major manufacturers of feminine care and cosmetic products over concerns that companies may be misleading consumers about the presence of toxic chemicals and heavy metals.
Texas investigates major tampon, cosmetics manufacturers for alleged deceptive health claims
The Texas Attorney General's office has launched sweeping, industry-wide investigations into major manufacturers of feminine care and cosmetic products over concerns that companies may be misleading consumers about the presence of toxic chemicals and heavy metals.
FIFA Investigates Post-Match Scuffle Between Argentina And Spain Players
FIFA opened an investigation Monday after Spain’s celebrations on beating Argentina in the World Cup final took an ugly turn when players briefly clashed on the field.
Southern Nevada health officials report first local cyclosporiasis case linked to outbreak
Las Vegas health officials report cyclosporiasis case in Clark County tied to travel; no evidence of local exposure as CDC investigates outbreak.
What is Cyclospora? Health officials explain symptoms, risks amid FDA lettuce investigation
Cyclospora has been making national headlines as the FDA investigates a possible link between a recent outbreak and shredded lettuce products in several northeastern states.
The anti-aging industry promises to extend life. Here's the reality
The fear of aging is driving a wave of biohacking businesses promising to help restore youth and fight disease. Four Corners investigates the race to reverse the aging process.
Could politics have played a part in Miami denied disaster relief?
Miami officials estimate the cost of rebuilding at approximately $60 million. The town’s annual budget is just under $3 million. Amy Cutler investigates what happened.
Abbott investigates two separate cyber incidents, says no operations affected
Abbott Laboratories is investigating two cyber incidents involving unauthorized access to some internal systems at its cancer diagnostics business and its LabCentral portal, the company said on Friday, adding that its operations were not affected.
WSAZ Investigates | Businesses worried about Flock cameras facing their doors
Of the 17 locations for cameras, there are four businesses explicitly mentioned in descriptions for where the cameras should face.
Senate Weighs How to Measure Science Edge Over China
Senate committee investigates how the U.S. tracks scientific progress and maintains competitive edge against China. Discover implications for research funding.
Mid- City Businesses unite after months of ongoing crime and safety concerns around Comiskey Park
Months after WDSU Investigates exposed safety concerns at Comiskey Park, business owners say they're still waiting for change.
Senate investigates what health officials knew about COVID-19 vaccine side effects
A Senate review led by Sen. Ron Johnson is examining how federal officials handled reports of possible COVID-19 vaccine side effects.
FOX10 Investigates: Body cam captures Semmes shooting timeline as wounded business owner waited for aid
At 3:36 a.m., Officer Murphy’s body camera captured radio traffic saying, “Victim is going to be a Johnny Bowman. Currently have the caller on hold.” Moments later, an officer confirmed Bowman had been hit: “So apparently we shot, or hit the guy who shot at us.”
FOX10 Investigates: Body-cam video shows shootout between Semmes PD and business owner
Just minutes before the gunfire, Semmes police officers Austin Collier and Brandon Murphy pulled up to the business on Moffett Road. Police say Collier’s body camera was not working. The footage is from Murphy’s body-worn camera.
America’s small businesses are giving up on health insurance
America's employer-based health insurance system is crumbling. STAT investigates why, in our new series, “Out of Pocket, Out of Reach.”
America’s small businesses are giving up on health insurance
America's employer-based health insurance system is crumbling. STAT investigates why, in our new series, “Out of Pocket, Out of Reach.”
Beetroot juice is trending – its benefits go beyond the hype
Some marathon runners and other athletes swear by beetroot juice shots, but is there evidence they really do anything for our bodies? Columnist Alice Klein investigates
CDC investigates parasite that’s caused cases of ‘explosive’ diarrhea in 18 US states
Parasite cyclospora spreads through produce and water contaminated with feces and causes the intestinal illness cyclosporiasis
Mystery parasite leaves Americans battling ‘explosive diarrhea’ as CDC investigates
The CDC reports 145 confirmed cyclosporiasis cases across 17 states as the parasitic outbreak season climbs, with 20 patients hospitalized so far.
OpenAI sets up 'warroom' to fix Codex limit issues
OpenAI investigates Codex's usage limit depletion that's impacting some users. The company has reset user caps to address the problem.
World Cup 2026 exit leaves South Korean football in crisis
After crashing out of the World Cup, BBC Sport investigates the rise and fall of South Korean football.
Department of Education investigates Maryland schools over boys access to girls sports and facilities
The U.S. Department of Education has launched an investigation into Maryland's Department of Education and three public School districts, claiming that boys are joining girls athletic teams and accessing girls facilities.
Family says they tried to get man mental health help before alleged beating
Kenneth Flagg's family says they tried to get him mental health help hours before prosecutors say he beat a PA inside a hospital. 12 News Investigates obtained new video of the encounter.
Polymarket allegedly faked trades. Chances are slim Trump admin investigates, says sports-betting attorney
A recent Wall Street Journal investigation found that the prediction market hired influencers to stage fake trades as part of its marketing campaign to attract U.S. users.
Fresno City Attorney investigates unpaid wage claims after local BBQ business shuts down
Health Ministry investigates suspected Ebola case after traveler develops symptoms
Israel’s Health Ministry is investigating a suspected Ebola case after a traveler returning from the Democratic Republic of Congo developed fever and headache.
Earthshine: imaging the Moon for science
This image is part of a series captured by ESA astronaut Sophie Adenot for the European Earthshine experiment, which investigates whether we can measure how much sunlight Earth reflects by using the Moon as a natural projection screen.
Woman says popular oil change business destroyed her engine
Channel 2 Action News Investigates has reported similar cases for years.
Health department investigates tuberculosis case at Lloyd Memorial High School
The Northern Kentucky Health Department is investigating a case of active tuberculosis linked to a student at Lloyd Memorial High School, with contact tracing underway for those who had prolonged exposure.
Caesars Entertainment Investor Alert: Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC Investigates Adequacy of Price and Process in Proposed Sale of Caesars Entertainment, Inc.
Former Attorney General of Louisiana Charles C. Foti, Jr., Esq. and the law firm of Kahn Swick & Foti, LLC (“KSF”) are investigating the proposed sale of Cae...
Brazil investigates possible Ebola cases amid scramble to contain oubreak
“Never before has an Ebola outbreak recorded so many cases so soon after its declaration,” Doctors without Borders said in a statement Saturday, calling for more testing and medics on the ground.
Savannah PD investigates death at business in the 2600 block of Seaboard Coastline Dr.
he Savannah Police Department is currently conducting a death investigation at a business in the 2600 block of Seaboard Coastline Dr.
WECT INVESTIGATES: Leland woman dies after battling stage 4 cancer, Novant Health
Brenda Booze died Tuesday afternoon after a battle with stage four cancer.
NYC health department investigates Legionnaires' cases in East Village
Residents of Haven Plaza apartments have been advised not to take showers, pending an investigation of the water supply.
Waste Watch: How community colleges spent taxpayer-funded mental health recovery dollars
WLOS News 13 provides local news, weather forecasts, traffic updates, notices of events and items of interest in the community, sports and entertainment programming for Asheville, NC and nearby towns and communities in Western North Carolina and the Upstate of South Carolina, including the counties of Buncombe, Henderson, Rutherford, Haywood, Polk, Transylvania, McDowell, Mitchell, Madison, Yancey, Jackson, Swain, Macon, Graham, Spartanburg, Greenville, Anderson, Union, Pickens, Oconee, Laurens, Greenwood, Abbeville and also Biltmore Forest, Woodfin, Leicester, Black Mountain, Montreat, Arden, Weaverville, Hendersonville, Etowah, Flat Rock, Mills River, Waynesville, Maggie Valley, Canton, Clyde, Franklin, Cullowhee, Sylva, Cherokee, Marion, Old Fort, Forest City, Lake Lure, Bat Cave, Spindale, Spruce Pine, Bakersville, Burnsville, Tryon, Columbus, Marshall, Mars Hill, Brevard, Bryson City, Cashiers, Greer, Landrum, Clemson, Gaffney, and Easley.
New study shows drinking water filtration systems may add months to lifespan
As more than two billion people worldwide still lack access to safely managed drinking water, new research from the La Follette School of Public Affairs at UW–Madison investigates the effects of early-life ...
<em>Science </em>magazine investigates FBI’s witch-hunt against Chinese researchers</em>
Science magazine, one of the most prestigious peer-reviewed publications in the world, has published an investigative report titled “Researching While Chinese,” detailing the Department of Justice (DOJ) persecution of Chinese researchers at the University of Michigan and Indiana University.
Owner of autism center raided by feds tied to another business billing Minnesota Medicaid
Federal raids at autism centers in Minnesota reveal multiple Medicaid-billing businesses under shared ownership, a pattern first exposed by 5 INVESTIGATES.
Sheriff's Office investigates Chelsea business felony theft
The Shelby County Sheriff's Office (SCSO) is searching for the culprit of a felony theft involving a Chelsea business.
The Trump administration has gutted US aid for family planning. Here’s how it’s impacting women overseas
A crisis in family planning medicine is playing out in Africa in the wake of sweeping US aid cuts, with medical providers highlighting deaths, layoffs and unintended pregnancies.
WECT INVESTIGATES: Hampstead business owner faces felony charge, state investigation
A Hampstead pool contractor faces a felony charge after accusations of taking customers' money and not finishing projects.
Eligibility questions spark calls to suspend Minnesota’s $100 million ‘promise’ to small businesses
5 INVESTIGATES found several Minnesota Promise grant recipients appear to be operating miles outside of eligible neighborhoods, and others that may not be operating at all.
Giannis Antetokounmpo questions relationship with Bucks as NBA investigates team's statements about his health
The Happy Accident: How Benetta MacAuley Found Her Joy in Materials Science and Music
Benetta MacAuley didn't know materials science was a major when she applied to UC Davis. Now the senior investigates sustainable cement alternatives and leads the viola section of the Video Game Orchestra, proving that the best paths are often unplanned.
Sharing her passion for science
By Danielle Rush Communications Specialist, Indiana University Kokomo Hisako Masuda, Indiana University Kokomo professor of biochemistry, was honored by the Indiana Academy of Science (IAS) as its 2026 Distinguished Scholar. The award is given to an individual who is recognized by the IAS as having an exceptional record of scholarship. Recipients are selected from nominations submitted to its awards committee. “I was surprised,” said Masuda, who joined IU Kokomo’s faculty in 2013. “I feel there are many good scientists in the Academy, so I wasn’t expecting it at all.” Patrick Motl, dean of the School of Sciences, said the Academy recognizes up to one member per year, and that Masuda is the second or third IU Kokomo faculty member to receive the commendation. “Clearly this speaks to the strength of Dr. Masuda’s accomplishments in research and scholarship and that her work stands out amongst her peers in Indiana,” said Motl, who received the award in 2019. “Many of the institutions that participate in the IAS are undergraduate institutions or primarily undergraduate institutions, but even having that caveat, Dr. Masuda has built and maintains a very active research program in her lab, working exclusively with undergraduates. She is passionate about science and can share that passion with her students. To carry on a quality research program with so many students involved in so many projects is truly remarkable and I am glad that the IAS acknowledged that for Dr. Masuda.” The IAS specifically commended her for involving more than 50 undergraduates in her research in bacterial metabolism, genomics, and their phenotypic plasticity at IU Kokomo, and publishing 23 articles with many student co-authors. Masuda’s current work primarily focuses on biodegradation and chemical repurposing of nylon. Using soil bacteria, her lab studies bacterial biodegradation of nylon and other environmental pollutants. She applies principles of green chemistry while developing a method to convert nylon waste into other nontoxic polymers. In collaborative work with health scientists, her lab investigates gut microbiomes of Indiana native birds as well as human subjects in a clinical study. She became interested in converting plastic waste while earning her Ph.D. at Rutgers University, working on methods to remove environmental waste not using chemicals or other intrusive methods. She learned about Nylon 11, which is used in pipes for transferring oil, interior components for cars, catheters, and in other industrial hard plastics. Nylon 11 is nontoxic, she added, so it is safe to include students in the research. “Those are considered to be nonbiodegradable, and have to go to a landfill,” she said. “I thought if we could come up with a way to biodegrade it, that would make some kind of impact.” Eventually, she wants to develop a product that would convert nylon waste to something useful, and to reduce waste and microplastics in the environment. “That would be my goal at some point, that we can make that change, and also make people more aware of their use of plastics,” she said. “I hope students stop to think about what we can do as scientists to address issues currently impacting us.” She appreciates the IAS for its support of scientific research at Indiana institutions, and IU Kokomo and the School of Sciences for providing funding for students to attend the Academy’s annual meeting. She added that IU Kokomo has also supported her research with funding from the School of Sciences and Academic Affairs. “Without that, I couldn’t do my research,” she said. Masuda has also earned a Senior Research Grant from the IAS, IU Kokomo’s Distinguished Research Award, and the IU Kokomo Junior Faculty Annual Research Award. She is a Fellow of the Indiana Academy of Science. Education is KEY at Indiana University Kokomo.
Why this Stanford psychiatrist thinks diet can influence serious mental health disorders
Shebani Sethi is at the vanguard of metabolic psychiatry, a field that investigates the link between diet and serious mental health disorders.