Campus Science News

The following news items are from various campus, college and department sources.

A composite image of a woman's headshot and cover of a book April 21, 2025

The ESPM and ERG assistant professor’s latest book, Sweet Deal, Bitter Landscape, was honored by the American Association for Geographers.

Electric Caltrain on railroad. April 17, 2025

A study co-authored by UC Berkeley professors Allen Goldstein and Joshua Apte, PhD '13 Energy and Resources, found that electrifying the Caltrain commuter line reduced riders’ exposure to carcinogenic black carbon by an average of 89%.

Tom Carlson enjoying a flowering Ceanothus bush. Photo courtesy of Brent Mishler.

It is with great sadness that we report the death of Teaching Professor Emeritus Thomas J. Carlson, who passed away on 9 April 2025. Tom was a highly respected scientist and teacher who was beloved for his creative intellect, his kindness, and his humanity. Professionally, Tom’s career centered on two themes – botany and medicine. He held a Masters’ Degree in botany from the University of Michigan and was a Curator Emeritus in Berkeley’s University and Jepson Herbaria.

Olzmann receives Beatriz Manz AwardProfessor of Molecular Therapeutics James Olzmann has received a 2025 L&S Faculty Award, the Beatriz Manz Award, from Berkeley's College of Letters & Science. This award recognizes exceptional scholarship, service to the College and community, and transformational teaching. Read more about Olzmann and the other L&S Faculty Award recipients here. 

Student conducting research in grassland area. April 16, 2025

Researchers, conservation practitioners, Tribal leaders, and others leading conservation efforts focused on keystone species in the United States and territories are encouraged to apply by May 23rd.

An informal settlement in Kampala, Uganda. Photo by Jess Kersey. April 14, 2025

A new study led by Energy and Resources Group researchers reveals the challenges of energy access in Uganda, as grid connections still leave many residents vulnerable to energy poverty.