#Funding Opportunity for data science

[sirfrogsworth]

So Elon has decided to skip the imminent disaster of global climate change and just move on to a calamity 5 billion years in the future.

If you ever need to understand Elon's motivations, it's all this.

Okay and a little bit the woke mind virus.

But mostly this.

He wants to get to Mars more than anything. It's why the only thing he can speak intelligently about is his rockets. He has put in the time and effort to learn about them because this is his singular passion.

A lovely Youtube physicist did a video about SpaceX and she said half of the rockets blow up and Elon just wants more money. And it was disappointing to hear her say that because she is a scientist and both things are inaccurate.

SpaceX would be an amazing company without Elon. His leadership is the only thing really holding it back. They have put lots of cool shit into space. Their Falcon program is the most productive and cheapest rocket program in history. They put more stuff into space than everyone else combined.

They had to blow up part of the graph just so you could see the competition. Half of the SpaceX rockets are *not* blowing up.

Starship is a specific prototype. It has nothing to do with their main rocket business. Starship is Elon wanting to go to Mars. It is basically him trying to send a 3 story building into space. And he keeps blowing it up because that is the fastest way to develop a rocket. He's wasting a lot of money by trying to speedrun a trip to Mars in his lifetime. And these tests are bit more like crash test data than expecting the rocket and Starship to actually function properly. It's a process and they have goals for each launch, and for the most part, they reach those goals. Any success after those goals is gravy to them. But they are pretty certain it is going to end in fireworks at this stage of development.

I don't know if they will get it to work. It would be nice because a functional spaceship that size could do a lot of cool science. But Elon's goals and NASA's goals are going to conflict in a major way at some point in the future. And I'm worried that may damage space exploration.

Starship is very different than their Falcon program. It's a science experiment. Falcons rarely blow up. They get shit to space like the James Webb telescope.

And as far as Elon just wanting more money... sort of.

His personal wealth has not been a huge concern of his for a while. Otherwise he wouldn't have let Tesla fall apart like it has. The wealth he is actually concerned about is not his own. Going to Mars is a trillion-dollar-plus endeavor. Even the richest man in the world cannot raise that much money.

Only a government could fund that.

Elon knows this. He figured it out a while ago. And when he saw an opportunity to get his hands on the government purse strings, he jumped at the chance.

He jumped in the shape of an X like a giant loser.

I'm *positive* Elon thought, "If I could save the government a trillion dollars, they'll give it to me so I can go to Mars."

But it is probably breaking his brain right now after learning he isn't this super genius who can figure out government bureaucracy in a weekend with a bunch of coding dorks.

He got depressed and realized his cool plan to get to Mars was falling apart.

Whoops.

Elon will say anything to get to Mars. He will lie about anything to get to Mars. He will consort with anyone to get to Mars. If you are ever unsure why Elon is doing something, it's to get to Mars. His moral calculus is based on this. In his delusional mind, everything is justifiable to save the human race.

He does have side quests. He wants to repopulate the Earth with his seed. And he uses IVF because you can drastically increase the odds of getting a boy if you pay extra. And he is angry at his trans daughter because he wants boys to continue his mission to spread Musk seed. He spends $50,000 extra to make sure he gets boys and she is messing with the plan.

Oh, and he really really wants people to think he is good at video games. And he wants people to like him. And he wants to kill the woke mind virus because he didn't get the boy he paid for.

But Mars is *almost* all he cares about.

Elon thinks Earth is doomed and he wants immortality from being the man who saved human civilization. He truly believes our existence is dependent on being "multiplanetary." It might be the only thing he believes.

Saving the human race is supposed to be his legacy.

And it is killing us.

[wachinyeya]

Shorebird populations across the Americas have declined by nearly 50% over the past four decades, facing increasing threats from habitat loss, climate change, and human disturbances. Against these odds, the American Oystercatcher has made a stunning comeback, with populations rebounding by 45% since 2008. The recovery is credited to a collaborative, science-based conservation initiative led by Manomet Conservation Sciences, in partnership with the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

The American Oystercatcher, a striking coastal bird known for its bright red-orange beak and distinctive yellow-rimmed eyes, plays a vital role in salt marsh and barrier beach ecosystems. By 2008, its numbers had dropped to just 10,000 birds. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Dr. Shiloh Schulte, Senior Shorebird Scientist at Manomet, launched a data-driven conservation effort focused on habitat restoration, predator control, and protection of nesting sites.

Schulte’s comprehensive population surveys—spanning from New York to Texas—provided critical insights into roosting patterns and breeding success, enabling conservationists to implement effective recovery strategies. Targeted interventions and sustained collaboration have reversed the species’ decline, offering a model for future shorebird conservation efforts.

A $10 Million Investment in Coastal Conservation

Recognizing that shorebird conservation requires a coordinated, large-scale approach, Manomet and the American Oystercatcher Working Group spearheaded a decade-long $10 million funding initiative bringing together 35 coastal conservation organizations. 

The combined efforts have contributed to the restoration of coastal ecosystems, benefiting numerous shorebird species. According to Dr. Stephen Brown, Vice President of Science at Manomet, long-term migration studies have played a role in highlighting the broader shorebird crisis. His research contributed to the November 2024 update of the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) Red List, which revealed that 15 migratory shorebird species in the Americas are now classified at higher risk levels.

Manomet’s ongoing mission extends beyond research, actively engaging local communities, conservation organizations, and policymakers to implement science-based solutions. By prioritizing hands-on habitat restoration and protection, the organization remains at the forefront of shorebird conservation efforts.

Expanding Conservation Efforts: From Oystercatchers to Whimbrels

The success of the American Oystercatcher conservation model is now being applied to other threatened shorebirds, including the whimbrel—a long-distance migratory bird that travels between the Arctic and South America. With whimbrel populations declining in recent decades, conservationists are using the same science-driven strategies to help reverse these trends.

To increase public awareness and engagement, the First Inaugural Shorebird Festival will take place on Tybee Island, Georgia, from February 20-22, 2025. This event will bring together citizen scientists, conservationists, and bird enthusiasts, providing a unique opportunity to learn about shorebird conservation efforts. Dr. Abby Sterling, Director of the Georgia Bight Shorebird Conservation Initiative, will be among the experts discussing ongoing restoration initiatives.

Despite ongoing environmental challenges, the resurgence of the American Oystercatcher proves that with the right scientific approach, funding, and collaboration, shorebird populations can recover and thrive. 

[probablyasocialecologist]

The Blue Carbon Mapping Project, completed by the Scottish Association for Marine Science on behalf of World Wildlife Fund, The Wildlife Trusts and the RSPB, gives the UK an opportunity to show the rest of the world just how important blue carbon is and why we need to protect it. Helping nature to recover on land and at sea is fundamental for tackling climate change, alongside reductions in emissions. My colleagues and I reviewed and collated existing data about blue carbon habitats and carbon in seabed sediment to create new estimates of the size of and rates of accumulation in the carbon stores in UK seas. We found that seabed sediments are the largest blue carbon store, holding an estimated 244 million tonnes of organic carbon. Most (98.3%) of this carbon is stored within the top 10cm of these sediments. Coastal vegetated habitats, although covering only 1% of the UK’s marine area, contribute significantly to carbon storage, accounting for 1.7% of the UK seas’ total organic carbon stores. Salt marshes are the largest of these, containing 60% of the organic carbon in coastal vegetated habitats. Mostly found in England and Wales, salt marshes are powerful carbon sinks due to the rich, organic soils they contain. Seagrass beds, though less extensive, also play a critical role, but our report calls for improved mapping to better understand their distribution and capacity. When unharmed, marine habitats naturally absorb carbon and prevent it being released into the atmosphere. The carbon is primarily absorbed by phytoplankton that drift to the bottom of the sea when they die and are added to seabed sediments. Providing they are left undisturbed, these sediments can continue to absorb carbon for hundreds, if not thousands of years.

[religion-is-a-mental-illness]

By: Colin Wright

Published: Mar 25, 2025

The debate over fairness in women’s sports has become a major cultural issue in recent years, as sports organizations and political leaders try to figure out how to handle the participation of transgender women—biological males—in female sports categories. Most Americans support keeping sports divided by sex, but political responses have been deeply split along party lines. President Donald Trump has made this a key issue, recently announcing an executive order called Keeping Men Out of Women’s Sports. The order aims to protect Title IX and ensure that only biological women can compete in female sports. A few weeks later, the Trump administration also cut off $175 million in federal funding to the University of Pennsylvania over how it handled the case of Lia Thomas, a male swimmer who competed on the women’s team after hormone treatment.

Polls consistently show that about 70–80 percent of Americans believe male athletes shouldn’t compete against females, but the Democratic Party has had difficulty separating itself from its more progressive wing on this issue. As a result, many voters—especially women and girls—feel frustrated, since their opportunities, safety, and fairness in competition are directly affected.

In an effort to move beyond politics and focus on facts, a new paper in the Journal of Applied Physiology titled “Evidence on sex differences in sports performance” offers a timely, in-depth look at the biological differences between male and female athletes. Written by experts in physiology and sports medicine, the review examines performance differences before and after puberty and provides a solid foundation for understanding what true fairness in sports means.

One of the paper’s main findings challenges a popular argument made by some inclusion advocates—that male athletes who block puberty before adolescence can compete fairly against females. In reality, the evidence shows that meaningful performance differences between boys and girls exist even before puberty begins. These differences, while smaller than those observed in adulthood, are nonetheless significant—and they demonstrate that blocking puberty does not eliminate the athletic advantage conferred by male biology. The takeaway is this: both men who went through male puberty and those who blocked it still have physical advantages that make competition unfair for females.

The review highlights seven major conclusions about the nature and persistence of sex-based differences in athletic performance. In the sections that follow, I’ll go through each one—explaining the evidence behind them and what they mean for policymakers, sports regulators, and the broader public conversation about fairness and inclusion in sports.

1. Males Consistently Outperform Females in Events Dependent on Strength, Speed, and Endurance

The data is clear: in almost every sport that depends on strength, speed, power, or endurance, male athletes outperform female athletes. In track and field, for example, thousands of males—many still in their teens—have beaten the female world records in running, jumping, and throwing events. The performance gap between top male and female athletes ranges from about 10 percent to over 40 percent, depending on the sport. These differences are not random or anecdotal; they are consistent and grounded in biology.

2. The Male-Female Performance Gap Appears Before Puberty

The authors of the new review show that performance differences between the sexes are evident even before puberty. Among elite prepubescent athletes in the United States, boys outperform girls by 3–10 percent in running and jumping events, and by up to 5 percent in swimming. While some of these differences may be influenced by behavioral factors—such as greater participation by boys in vigorous physical activity—clear biological disparities are already present. Early hormonal influences, differences in muscle development, and patterns of physical activity all contribute to a measurable male advantage prior to adolescence.

This conclusion is supported by the work of Dr. Greg Brown, a professor of exercise science at the University of Nebraska at Kearney, whose detailed analysis was recently published here on Reality’s Last Stand. Brown reviewed data from school-based fitness tests, national youth track meets, swimming records, and a five-year dataset of top U.S. track and field performances among children under age 11. He found that boys consistently ran faster, jumped farther, and threw significantly farther than girls of the same age—often by margins of 5–40 percent depending on the event. Brown also emphasized that even when puberty blockers are used to suppress male development, existing research shows that sex-based differences in height and lean body mass persist—traits that directly affect athletic performance.

Together, the review paper and Brown’s findings clearly demonstrate that the male athletic advantage does not begin at puberty; it begins well before. This challenges the increasingly common claim that fairness is preserved so long as puberty is medically suppressed. The evidence shows that even before puberty, males have real performance advantages over females—advantages that can make a difference in competitive sports where tiny margins decide who wins.

3. Puberty Dramatically Increases the Performance Gap

The divergence in athletic performance between males and females becomes most pronounced during and after puberty. At this point, testosterone levels in males rise quickly, causing a series of physical changes—more muscle, bigger lungs and hearts, longer bones, and more red blood cells. These changes boost speed, strength, and endurance. By late adolescence, the performance gap reaches adult levels, firmly establishing the large male advantage.

4. Testosterone Is the Main Driver of Male Athletic Advantage

The paper emphasizes that the surge in endogenous testosterone during male puberty is the main driver of the performance gap. Testosterone promotes the growth of skeletal muscle, enhances oxygen delivery through increased hemoglobin, strengthens bones, and improves recovery. Even small differences in testosterone levels can have large effects on athletic performance, which is why sports organizations strictly regulate doping.

5. Female Physiology Constrains Athletic Performance

While male athletes benefit from a host of performance-enhancing adaptations during puberty, female athletes face different physiological constraints. These include higher body fat percentages, a shorter average adult height, and changes in joint structure that increase injury risk. The menstrual cycle can also affect comfort, fatigue, and temperature regulation, and many women must take time off for pregnancy and recovery. These factors further compound the male-female performance gap.

6. Testosterone Suppression Reduces but Does Not Eliminate Male Advantage

One of the most relevant findings for policy debates is that testosterone suppression in “transgender women” (i.e., males who identify as women) modestly reduces physical performance but does not erase the male advantage. A well-documented case study of a transgender swimmer (Lia Thomas) who competed in both male and female NCAA categories showed only a 5 percent drop in performance following hormone therapy—significantly less than the typical 10 percent gap between elite male and female swimmers. Similar results have been found in studies of athletes and military personnel: transgender women often still perform better than biological females, even after years of testosterone suppression.

The explanation is due to what scientists call “legacy effects.” While hormone therapy reduces circulating testosterone, it does not reverse traits like height, limb length, lung capacity, or overall body structure. Muscle mass and strength do go down somewhat, but typically not to female levels. Some scientists also suggest that muscles developed under high testosterone might keep a kind of “memory,” helping them stay stronger or grow faster even after hormone levels drop.

7. Female Doping with Testosterone Improves Performance, but Falls Short of Male Levels

Finally, the paper examines whether exogenous testosterone can close the performance gap from the other direction—by enhancing female performance. Evidence from past state-run doping programs and recent controlled studies shows that women respond strongly to testosterone. They build muscle, lose fat, and improve endurance. However, even with these improvements, female athletes still don’t perform at the same level as male athletes, past or present. This supports the idea that the male advantage in sports can’t be fully recreated or erased just by changing hormone levels.

-

The paper concludes with a clear but important message: differences between males and females in athletic performance are large, measurable, and mostly permanent after puberty. These differences are much bigger than the small advantages (often less than 1 percent) that sports organizations try to remove through equipment rules or anti-doping efforts. In sports where winners are decided by fractions of a second or a few millimeters, a lasting 10–40 percent performance gap can’t be ignored.

This body of evidence provides a clear guide for sports policymakers. Inclusion cannot come at the cost of fairness. Letting males compete in women’s events—no matter their “gender identity”—undermines the level playing field that female athletes have worked hard to protect. It’s not just hormone levels that matter, but all the physical advantages that come from male development.

In the end, protecting women’s sports means acknowledging that sex-based performance differences are real, significant, and long-lasting. Insisting on fairness in competition is not bigoted or transphobic—it is foundational to the integrity of sport.

--

Abstract

Sex differences in sports performances continue to attract considerable scientific and public attention, driven in part by high profile cases of: 1) biological male (XY) athletes who seek to compete in the female category after gender transition, and 2) XY athletes with medical syndromes collectively known as disorders or differences of sex development (DSDs). In this perspective, we highlight scientific evidence that informs eligibility criteria and applicable regulations for sex categories in sports. There are profound sex differences in human performance in athletic events determined by strength, speed, power, endurance, and body size such that males outperform females. These sex differences in athletic performance exist before puberty and increase dramatically as puberty progresses. The profound sex differences in sports performance are primarily attributable to the direct and indirect effects of sex-steroid hormones and provide a compelling framework to consider for policy decisions to safeguard fairness and inclusion in sports.

==

Saying what everyone knows is true isn't "hate."

[covid-safer-hotties]

The Long Covid Groups say patients are being abandoned as dedicated clinics close despite a rise in UK cases - Published Sept 8, 2024

As the UK Covid-19 Inquiry resumes with a focus on healthcare systems in each of the four nations, the Long Covid Groups (comprising Long Covid Support, Long Covid SOS, Long Covid Physio and Long Covid Kids) are shocked and deeply concerned to learn that Long Covid clinics are being closed at a time when reported cases are continuing to rise.

Charities and many medical experts have long maintained we are in the midst of a global health crisis. Without a concerted effort to address this issue, the closures will only add to the significant burdens already being faced by healthcare systems and economies.

Recent data from the US has suggested that Long Covid may affect up to 7% of the population and prevalence could rise further. The latest ONS updates have shown that incidence of long-term sickness is at record levels and has been on an upward trajectory since early 2020. Staff shortages and high levels of school absenteeism are frequently reported across the UK. The annual productivity loss in the UK resulting from Long Covid is currently estimated to be £1.5 billion.

This stark picture contrasts with the lack of support Long Covid patients are receiving. At the start of the year, there were close to 100 Long Covid clinics for adults and 13 hubs for children and young people (CYP) in England. Earlier this year however, the highly regarded NHS England national programme was stood down with responsibility for Long Covid services being delegated to each of the Integrated Care Boards (ICBs). In recent months, patients and staff have reported the closure and a severe scaling back of clinics including Devon, Hampshire, Hertfordshire, Lancashire and Surrey. Key personnel and resources are being subsumed into other NHS services and, in some cases, staff are leaving the NHS altogether. Some CYP hubs are being forced to take on patients from those that have already closed with no extra funding.

In the other UK nations, the provision of Long Covid services is individual to each health board with no centrally agreed model on what Long Covid clinics should look like. They mostly focus on therapies designed to help patients manage their conditions rather than being clinician led. There is only one service dedicated to paediatrics in Scotland with none in Northern Ireland and Wales.

The Long Covid Groups urge all governments and healthcare providers to adopt a service model that prioritises dedicated clinics supported by experienced clinician-led, multidisciplinary teams. Given the complexity and multi-faceted nature of the condition, the Long Covid Groups stress that specialists from each of the relevant disciplines should work collaboratively. In partnership with patients, they call for a healthcare framework that is dedicated to successfully diagnosing, treating and preventing Long Covid; this will contribute towards relieving the operational and financial pressures on the NHS.

Amitava Banerjee, Professor of Clinical Data Science and Honorary Consultant Cardiologist & Long Covid SOS Trustee

“The evidence for the health, healthcare and economic effects of Long Covid, whether on individuals or societies, is unequivocal. Therefore, we must ensure that coordinated research and care are prioritised for Long Covid."

Sammie McFarland, CEO & Founder, Long Covid Kids

"Appropriate funding and resources would provide clinicians with the best possible opportunity to improve patients' lives, but this hasn't been forthcoming. Rising school absenteeism and Long Covid in children are red flags demanding immediate action. Closing specialised clinics risks creating a healthcare vacuum with far-reaching consequences for healthcare, education, families, and the future workforce."

Professor Mark Faghy, Vice-Chair of Long Covid Physio

“The scaling back and closure of services around the UK at a time when the prevalence of Long Covid is rising seems counterintuitive. Before these decisions were made, there were calls from patients and healthcare workers to grow services and ensure consistency across the UK but it seems to be going the other way.”

Nikki Smith, Founding Member, Long Covid Support

“With many people now getting Covid-19 multiple times, the risk of having on-going symptoms of Long Covid is increasing, which will result in more pressure on the NHS, fewer people able to work and an even bigger hit on the economy. It must be a priority of our new public service Government to ensure effective Long Covid clinics that are up to date with the latest research, are accessible by all.”

[mariacallous]

The European Commission has launched a new initiative to attract researchers and scientists to the European Union—especially those from the United States. The Choose Europe for Science program, backed with more than half a billion dollars, is designed to offer an alternative to researchers who have been forced to seek new opportunities following cuts in scientific funding imposed by President Donald Trump’s administration.

The program will invest €500 million ($568 million) between 2025 and 2027 to recruit specialists in various fields of knowledge to come and work in Europe. The initiative also includes a target for member states to allocate 3 percent of their GDP to R&D projects by 2030.

“The role of science in today’s world is questioned,” warned Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission, in a statement on Tuesday. “What a gigantic miscalculation. I believe that science holds the key to our future here in Europe. Without it, we simply cannot address today’s global challenges—from health to new tech, from climate to oceans.”

The plan, originally proposed by the French government, also proposes creating long-term “super grants” for outstanding researchers, to provide them with financial stability; these would last for seven years. The program also plans to double the amount of financial support available this year for those who decide to move to the European Union.

“Europe will always choose science,” said Von der Leyen. “Europe has everything that is needed for science to thrive: We have the stable and sustained investment; we have the infrastructure; we have the commitment to open and collaborative science, we have a social market economy that delivers access to good schools, education, and health care for all.” However, she acknowledged that scientists in the EU still face more complex bureaucracy compared to other regions of the world.

“We know that the path from fundamental research to business and to market is not straightforward or fast enough here in Europe,” she said. In this regard, she announced that the bloc will introduce a new European Research Area Act, to enshrine in law the right for knowledge and data to move freely within the bloc and so strengthen research freedom.

According to figures from the European Commission, 2 million researchers are currently working on the continent, which represents a quarter of the global total. Von der Leyen also highlighted that the EU manages the largest international research program: Horizon Europe, with an annual budget of more than €95 billion. This funding has supported 33 Nobel Prize winners over the past four decades.

“We want Europe to be a leader in priority technologies from AI to quantum, from space, semiconductors, and microelectronics to digital health, genomics, and biotechnology. We want scientists, researchers, academics and highly skilled workers to choose Europe,” Von der Leyen concluded.

Europe Wants to Win Over US Researchers

President Trump’s proposed budget for the 2026 fiscal year outlines deep cuts to US scientific agencies. If enacted, it would see the National Science Foundation budget cut by 56 percent, while the budget for the National Institutes of Health (NIH) would fall by roughly 40 percent. This would follow the large number of funding withdrawals and stop-work orders that have already been made since Trump’s inauguration in January.

In March, the US government canceled more than 200 federal grants for research on HIV. It also reduced NIH funding for Covid-related studies, and imposed a $400F million cut in funding to Columbia University, in retaliation for pro-Palestinian protests on its campus amid the conflict with Israel. In April, an NIH facility tasked with studying Ebola and other infectious diseases was ordered to stop research.

These decisions, together with concerns about future funding cuts, have led to an exodus of researchers from the United States, with scientists now seeking to continue their careers outside of the country. An analysis published in Nature found that 75 percent of American scientists surveyed were considering leaving the country. Meanwhile, data from Nature Careers, a global scientific employment platform, reveals that between January and March of this year, American professionals sent 32 percent more applications to foreign institutions compared to the same period in 2024. Furthermore, the number of American users exploring opportunities outside the country increased by 35 percent.

At the same time, international interest in working in the United States has declined significantly. During the first quarter of the year, applications from scientists from Canada, China, and Europe to US research centers fell by 13 percent, 39 percent, and 41 percent, respectively.

Against this backdrop, European institutions have intensified their efforts to attract US talent. Aix-Marseille University, in France, recently launched A Safe Place for Science, a program aimed at hosting US researchers dismissed, censored, or limited by Trump’s policies. This project is backed with an investment of approximately €15 million.

Along the same lines, the Max Planck Society in Germany has announced the creation of the Max Planck Transatlantic Program, whose purpose is to establish joint research centers with US institutions. “Outstanding investigators who have to leave the US, we will consider for director positions,” the society’s director Patrick Cramer said in speech discussing the program.

Spain Seeks a Leading Role

Juan Cruz Cigudosa, Spain’s secretary of state for science, innovation, and universities, has stressed that Spain is also actively involved in attracting global scientific talent, and is prioritizing areas such as quantum biotechnology, artificial intelligence, advanced materials, and semiconductors, as well as anything that strengthens the country’s technological sovereignty.

To achieve this, the government of Pedro Sánchez has strengthened existing programs. The ATRAE program—which aims to entice established researchers into bringing their work to Spain—has been reinforced with €45 million to recruit scientists who are leaders in strategic fields, with a special focus on US experts who feel “looked down upon.” This program is offering additional funding of €200,000 euros per project to those selected from the United States.

Similarly, the Ramón y Cajal program—created 25 years ago to further the careers of young scientists—has increased its funding by 150 percent since 2018, allowing for 500 researchers to be funded per year, of which 30 percent are foreigners.

“We are going to intensify efforts to attract talent from the United States. We want them to come to do the best science possible, free of ideological restrictions. Scientific and technological knowledge make us a better country, because it generates shared prosperity and a vision of the future,” said Cigudosa in a statement to the Spanish international news agency EFE after the announcement of the Choose Europe for Science program.

[noncompliantcyborg]

Disabled Queer Salish Sea Artist Seeking Some Community Support

Hi lovely people! Would you mind boosting my Salish Sea marine science art? My contract job is on an unexpected hiatus until sometime in July and so my income the next couple months is really dependent on the markets I'm doing and online sales. Scroll for photos of my work.

https://shop.noncompliantcyborg.com/

Other circumstances stuff under the cut

The timing of this is already additionally tough because mid-June I start my summer project as a visiting researcher at Rosario Beach Marine Lab, which I was (am still hopefully) going to be doing community fundraising for both in my local area and online but I've been delaying actively seeking that support out.

This is both because I wanted to have a solid equipment budget confirmed first and then also I've been feeling some serious impostor syndrome with a pretty hefty side of "there are so many humanitarian crises and survival needs fundraisers that people should be funding, how can I ask anyone to support me in doing naturalist documentation and 3D imaging of Salish Sea animals for sci-comm right now?"

It doesn't help that now that I've gotten some equipment quotes it's looking like roughly 5k for just the big ticket items and I don't know how much little incidental stuff will add up and that doesn't even consider any compensation for my labor. Also with the lag time on getting said equipment unless I magically fundraised that super fast stuff the time I'd have to complete the build and collect data could be very tight.

My back up plan is to just do a lot of studio type photography and videography for sci-comm content and art prints. Also embryology work if they have the proper dish-ware I can check out. But I'm still worried about what it does to people's perceptions of me if I don't pull off the project I wanted to. Being disabled and having to create your own non-traditional opportunities and coordinate everything that goes into that because science largely is inaccessible is exhausting. And it's extra exhausting trying to do all that while also trying to piece together accessible ways to financially support yourself.

Anyways, thank you for any support or solidarity you can offer whether through sharing, getting art, or otherwise.

[gsenvs3000w25]

Unit 5: How NYC’s Scaffolding Blocks Green Initiatives

For much of my education, science education (SE) focused on understanding concepts, while environmental education (EE), which emphasizes engagement and behaviour change, felt separate—often limited to extracurriculars, clubs, or field trips. This divide between knowledge and action felt like a missed opportunity. Now, in my fourth year of university, I noticed a shift in learning—from traditional classrooms to ones that included calls to action. Last semester, I took a course called Integrative Problems in Biological Science, where I explored biological issues and how an integrative approach could help solve them. I was tasked with identifying a specific problem within a larger biological issue, developing a solution, and pitching it for funding. One issue that stuck with me during the course was the ubiquity of NYC scaffolding and how it significantly hinders efforts to incorporate nature into daily life and creates obstacles for pollinators.

For every green space in NYC, there’s a looming obstacle: scaffolding. The city’s endless construction projects result in a near-constant presence of metal frames and tarps, wrapping around buildings and sidewalks, blocking sunlight, and limiting access to vital outdoor spaces. While scaffolding is essential for safety and urban renewal, it also creates an often-overlooked challenge for city people trying to integrate nature into their lives. For those looking to support pollinators, grow food, or simply add a bit more greenery to their surroundings, scaffolding can be a frustrating barrier—literally. It reduces sunlight, making it difficult for plants to thrive, and often restricts rooftop and balcony access where small urban gardens might otherwise flourish. This limitation has larger implications: as cities face biodiversity loss and climate change, urban greening efforts are more important than ever. The presence of scaffolding makes it harder for everyday New Yorkers to contribute to these efforts, stalling small-scale ecological action that could otherwise be impactful.

(Poole, 2022)

But what if we could rethink scaffolding not just as a barrier but as an opportunity? I think citizen science provides a way for New Yorkers to document and counteract the negative environmental effects of long-term scaffolding while actively contributing to urban biodiversity research. One of the key roles of citizen science is observation, crowdsourcing data that scientists alone would never be able to gather at such a large scale. In the case of scaffolding, residents could document how these structures affect light levels, temperature, air quality, and plant health. Mobile apps like iNaturalist or NYC-specific platforms could be used to track changes in pollinator activity in areas covered by scaffolding versus open-air spaces. Participants could log which plants survive and which struggle under scaffolded conditions, creating valuable data sets for urban ecologists and city planners alike.

Furthermore, urban gardening organizations and citizen scientists could advocate for alternative designs that incorporate green elements into scaffolding itself. Imagine temporary pollinator-friendly planters installed on scaffolding or city-backed green roofs on construction sheds, solutions that could mitigate some of the ecological downsides. By engaging in citizen science, residents could provide real evidence that green-integrated scaffolding is not just a nice idea but a practical and beneficial one.

Im curious to know, have you noticed how scaffolding impacts greenery in your neighbourhood? What creative solutions do you think could help integrate nature into the built environment?

(McGeehan, 2024)

References:

Wals, A. E. J., Brody, M., Dillon, J., & Stevenson, R. B. (2014). Convergence Between Science and Environmental Education. Science, 344(6184), 583–584. https://doi.org/10.1126/science.1250515

McGeehan, P. (2024, April 24). New York City’s Everlasting Scaffolding. The New York Times. https://www.nytimes.com/2024/04/24/nyregion/nyc-scaffolding.html

Poole, R. (2022, February 8). Why is There So Much Scaffolding in NYC? - CitySignal. CitySignal. https://www.citysignal.com/scaffolding-nyc/

Haltom, J. (2023). A story of how communities have been shaped by residents learning to garden [University of Guelph]. https://hdl.handle.net/10214/27610

Creative Commons Attribution NonCommercial 4.0 International

[scamornoreviews]

Is AT8XM Robot Legit Or Not? - AT8XM Robot PayPal Review

Explore the AT8XM Robot Paypal Review to uncover how this AI-driven forex trading system operates, its PayPal integration, and why it could be a game-changer for both new and seasoned traders.

The AT8XM Robot Paypal system combines artificial intelligence with PayPal integration to simplify forex trading. Learn how it works, who it’s for, and what makes it an appealing choice for automated traders.

Introduction

Let’s face it—forex trading can be a tricky beast. With markets shifting in the blink of an eye and economic news constantly rolling in, it’s tough to stay ahead of the curve. That’s where the AT8XM Robot Paypal steps into the spotlight. This AI-powered forex trading tool doesn’t just promise ease of use and smart trading; it also connects with PayPal, making transactions smooth as silk.

So, whether you're green around the gills or a trading veteran, this review will walk you through what makes the AT8XM Robot Paypal stand out in the world of automated forex systems.

What Is AT8XM Robot Paypal?

The AT8XM Robot Paypal is an automated forex trading application that leverages AI to scan markets, spot trading opportunities, and execute trades without needing constant human input. As if that wasn’t enough, it’s designed to be compatible with PayPal, adding a trusted layer of convenience for users handling deposits and withdrawals.

Top Features at a Glance

Smart AI Trading Engine

24/7 Market Monitoring

PayPal Payment Integration

User-Friendly Dashboard

Beginner-Friendly Setup

Real-Time Data Analysis

Customizable Risk Settings

This robot doesn’t sleep, doesn’t hesitate, and doesn’t complain—it just keeps scanning the forex market, aiming for profitable trades while the user can sit back and relax.

How AT8XM Robot Paypal Works

It might sound like rocket science, but the logic behind the AT8XM Robot Paypal is fairly straightforward:

Setup & Connect Broker – Users first create an account and connect it with a recommended broker.

Link PayPal – Funds can be deposited or withdrawn using PayPal, adding a layer of convenience.

Activate Robot – Once active, the robot starts scanning market conditions in real-time.

Trade Execution – Based on algorithmic decisions, it places trades aimed at maximizing profit.

Profit Monitoring – All gains go straight into the broker account, accessible via PayPal.

Pretty neat, huh? With minimal effort, users get a full-fledged trading partner running in the background.

Why Traders Are Buzzing About AT8XM Robot Paypal

There’s no shortage of reasons why this trading tool is gaining popularity:

Saves Time – No need to analyze charts all day.

Emotion-Free Trading – Decisions are driven by data, not by human impulse.

Trusted Payments – PayPal support adds an extra layer of user trust.

Ease of Use – Setup takes minutes, not hours.

Flexible Trading Options – Users can set their own trading limits and preferences.

Low Barrier to Entry – No prior trading knowledge required.

Who Stands to Benefit from AT8XM Robot Paypal?

The short answer? Just about anyone looking to dip their toes into the forex market or take their trading to the next level.

Complete Beginners – It’s plug-and-play simplicity helps new traders ease in.

Busy Professionals – They can let the bot do the legwork while they focus on other things.

Cautious Investors – The customizable risk settings are ideal for those who like to play it safe.

Experienced Traders – Automation lets them scale their strategies without burning out...

Is AT8XM Robot Legit Or Not? Full AT8XM Robot PayPal Review here! at https://scamorno.com/Robot-AT8XM-Review-App/?id=tumblr-legitornotpaypal

Security & Reliability: Is It the Real Deal?

Ah, the million-dollar question. The AT8XM Robot Paypal is reportedly backed by strong encryption and secure broker partnerships. And when PayPal’s in the mix, users often feel a bit more at ease, knowing that their transactions are protected by one of the most trusted online payment platforms out there.

Still, no system is perfect. As always, users should stick with well-reviewed brokers and do a touch of homework before diving in headfirst.

FAQs About AT8XM Robot Paypal

1. Is AT8XM Robot Paypal compatible with any broker?

Not quite. It usually works best with specific recommended brokers that support its integration and features.

2. Do I need trading experience to use it?

Nope! The platform is beginner-friendly, offering automated decisions without requiring deep knowledge of the forex market.

3. How does PayPal come into play?

Users can link their PayPal accounts for depositing and withdrawing funds, which adds a safe and well-known payment method into the mix.

4. Are the profits guaranteed?

Well, let’s not count chickens before they hatch. Like all trading, there���s risk involved. However, the robot is designed to increase the odds in the user’s favor.

5. Can I adjust the robot’s settings?

Absolutely! Users can customize risk levels, stop-loss limits, and trade sizes according to their comfort level...

Is AT8XM Robot Legit Or Not? Full AT8XM Robot PayPal Review here! at https://scamorno.com/Robot-AT8XM-Review-App/?id=tumblr-legitornotpaypal

[bbmct]

BBMCT: Embark on Medical Research at AIIMS Hospital

Clinical research plays a pivotal role in advancing medical science, improving patient care, and bringing innovative therapies to market. British Biomedicine Clinical Trials (BBMCT) at AIIMS Hospital offers an invaluable opportunity to be part of groundbreaking research in the healthcare field. Known for its prestigious reputation, robust facilities, and ethical approach, BBMCT is a trusted partner for clinical trials. In this blog, we will explore how BBMCT at AIIMS Hospital is revolutionizing medical research with its world-class resources, experienced researchers, and ethical commitment.

## Prestigious Institution for Clinical Research

AIIMS Hospital, India’s premier medical institution, has long been recognized as a leader in clinical research. Established in 1956, AIIMS has become synonymous with high-quality healthcare and research excellence. BBMCT leverages this prestigious legacy, offering researchers and patients access to a facility that is both globally recognized and locally impactful.

The institution is renowned for its research in diverse medical fields, ranging from oncology to neurology, pediatrics to cardiology. Its affiliation with the government ensures significant funding and support for clinical research, making it an ideal setting for conducting advanced trials. Whether for early-phase studies or large-scale trials, BBMCT provides a dependable platform for research excellence.

## Access to a Varied Patient Demographic

One of the key advantages of conducting clinical trials at AIIMS Hospital is the institution’s access to a wide and varied patient demographic. Located in the heart of India’s capital, AIIMS draws patients from across the country and beyond. This diverse population provides invaluable insights into how treatments and therapies work across different genetic backgrounds, socioeconomic statuses, and health conditions.

BBMCT at AIIMS can effectively conduct research across a wide range of diseases, ensuring that clinical trial data is comprehensive, robust, and reflective of global health trends. Researchers can rely on this broad patient base for better generalizability of trial outcomes, making their findings highly applicable to diverse patient populations.

## Cutting-Edge Research Facilities at Your Disposal

AIIMS Hospital is equipped with state-of-the-art research facilities that are at the forefront of medical innovation. From advanced diagnostic laboratories to high-tech imaging centers, BBMCT at AIIMS ensures that clinical trials are conducted under the best possible conditions. The hospital’s cutting-edge infrastructure includes sophisticated equipment for monitoring patient responses, analyzing data, and providing precise outcomes.

AIIMS also hosts specialized centers of excellence in areas like cancer research, cardiology, and neurosciences, ensuring that BBMCT has access to the latest research tools and methodologies. This focus on high-quality facilities provides a solid foundation for successful clinical trials, enabling researchers to make well-informed, evidence-based conclusions.

## Knowledgeable Researchers Deliver Reliable Outcomes

At the heart of every successful clinical trial is a team of knowledgeable and skilled researchers. BBMCT at AIIMS benefits from a team of experienced professionals who are experts in their respective fields. The institution attracts top-tier medical practitioners, scientists, and researchers who are committed to pushing the boundaries of medical knowledge.

AIIMS Hospital fosters a collaborative environment, encouraging cross-disciplinary research that ensures comprehensive, reliable outcomes. Researchers are well-versed in both the scientific and regulatory aspects of clinical trials, allowing them to design and execute studies that meet international standards while producing valid, reproducible results. This expertise significantly enhances the credibility of trials conducted under BBMCT.

## Firm Commitment to Ethical Research Standards

BBMCT at AIIMS Hospital places a strong emphasis on ethical standards in clinical research. The institution is committed to ensuring that patient rights, safety, and well-being are prioritized at all times. Strict adherence to ethical guidelines is ensured through institutional review boards (IRBs), regular audits, and continuous monitoring throughout the trial process.

The institution follows established ethical guidelines such as the Declaration of Helsinki and Good Clinical Practice (GCP), ensuring that trials meet international standards. By upholding these ethical standards, BBMCT builds trust with patients, researchers, and regulatory bodies, contributing to the reliability and legitimacy of the research conducted.

## Strong Support for Regulatory Compliance

Navigating the complex landscape of regulatory compliance is one of the critical components of conducting clinical research. BBMCT at AIIMS Hospital offers robust support in ensuring that all clinical trials comply with both Indian and international regulatory requirements. The research team is well-versed in guidelines set by regulatory bodies like the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) and the World Health Organization (WHO).

AIIMS Hospital’s research department has a dedicated team to assist in preparing, submitting, and reviewing clinical trial protocols to meet regulatory standards. This strong focus on compliance ensures that trials proceed smoothly without legal or procedural obstacles, fostering a trustworthy environment for all stakeholders involved.

## Efficient Management of Trial Execution

The execution of clinical trials requires careful planning, organization, and real-time management. BBMCT at AIIMS excels in the efficient management of trial execution, from recruitment to monitoring and reporting. The institution’s infrastructure, experienced staff, and technological tools help streamline trial processes, ensuring timelines are met and patient safety is maintained throughout.

BBMCT utilizes advanced project management software and patient monitoring tools to ensure trials are executed with precision. This attention to detail and structured management approach increases the likelihood of successful trial outcomes, providing timely and accurate data that can influence future medical practices and treatments.

## Established Success Record in Trials

BBMCT has built a solid track record of success in clinical trials over the years. With numerous trials completed successfully, the institution has gained recognition for its commitment to research excellence and its ability to deliver dependable results. This history of success has attracted global pharmaceutical companies, biotech firms, and research organizations to collaborate with BBMCT at AIIMS Hospital.

The success of BBMCT can be attributed to the institution’s rigorous trial methodologies, advanced technologies, and highly skilled teams. These factors combined have resulted in impactful clinical research, often leading to the development of new drugs, therapies, and medical procedures that improve patient outcomes globally.

/media/88de57a97f470a96a9071d7d2f030cba

## FAQs About BBMCT at AIIMS Hospital

**1. What makes BBMCT at AIIMS a trusted partner for clinical trials?**

BBMCT at AIIMS Hospital is trusted due to its prestigious standing, cutting-edge research facilities, and experienced team of researchers. The institution adheres to the highest ethical and regulatory standards, ensuring that trials are conducted safely and effectively. Its ability to recruit a diverse patient population further enhances the reliability and applicability of trial outcomes, making it a trusted partner for advanced clinical research.

**2. How does AIIMS Hospital support patient safety during clinical trials?**

AIIMS Hospital prioritizes patient safety through rigorous monitoring, ethical protocols, and regular audits by Institutional Review Boards (IRBs). Strict adherence to Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines ensures that patient welfare is safeguarded throughout the trial process. Additionally, patients are fully informed about the potential risks and benefits before consenting to participate, ensuring that their rights are upheld.

**3. What regulatory bodies oversee clinical trials at BBMCT?**

Clinical trials conducted at BBMCT at AIIMS are overseen by several regulatory bodies, including the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) and the World Health Organization (WHO). These organizations set the framework for regulatory compliance and ensure that clinical trials meet international safety and ethical standards.

**4. What types of clinical trials are conducted at BBMCT?**

BBMCT at AIIMS conducts a wide range of clinical trials, including Phase I-IV studies in fields such as oncology, cardiology, neurology, and infectious diseases. The trials may involve testing new drugs, therapies, diagnostic methods, or medical devices, and can be designed to explore safety, efficacy, or the optimal dosage of treatments.

**5. Can international companies partner with BBMCT for clinical research?**

Yes, BBMCT at AIIMS welcomes partnerships with international pharmaceutical companies, biotech firms, and research organizations. The institution’s reputation for high-quality research, access to a diverse patient base, and advanced facilities make it an attractive partner for global clinical trials.

## Conclusion

British Biomedicine Clinical Trials (BBMCT) at AIIMS Hospital provides a unique and prestigious platform for conducting advanced clinical research. With its world-class research facilities, experienced teams, diverse patient base, and unwavering commitment to ethical practices, BBMCT is paving the way for the future of medical science. The institution’s strong regulatory compliance, efficient trial management, and successful track record make it a leading choice for both national and international clinical research partnerships. For those seeking to embark on medical research, BBMCT at AIIMS Hospital is undoubtedly the trusted partner for innovation and success in the healthcare industry.

Subscribe to BBMCLINICALTRIALS YouTube channel for Research Insights

Be sure to subscribe to the **BBMCLINICALTRIALS YouTube channel** for exclusive access to the latest updates and in-depth insights into British Biomedicine Clinical Trials (BBMCT). Stay informed on cutting-edge research, clinical trial advancements, patient safety protocols, and breakthrough therapies being tested at AIIMS Hospital. Our channel provides expert discussions, industry trends, and detailed videos on the clinical trial process across various therapeutic areas. Whether you’re a healthcare professional, researcher, or simply interested in biomedical innovation, subscribing will keep you at the forefront of clinical research developments. Don’t miss out — join our community today!

[taneeshadunias]

Top Engineering Colleges in Delhi: A Gateway to Excellence

Delhi, the capital city of India, is home to some of the finest engineering colleges, known for their academic excellence, cutting-edge research, and strong industry connections. With top-tier institutions offering diverse specializations, modern infrastructure, and excellent placement opportunities, Delhi has emerged as a hub for aspiring engineers. Whether it’s government-funded institutes, private universities, or deemed universities, Delhi provides numerous options for students to pursue their dreams in engineering and technology.

1. Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT Delhi)

IIT Delhi is one of the premier engineering institutes in India, ranked among the top IITs in the country. Established in 1961, it is known for its high academic standards, cutting-edge research, and strong industry collaborations. The institute offers B.Tech, M.Tech, and Ph.D. programs in various engineering disciplines.

Key Highlights:

High global rankings and reputation.

Excellent placement record with top companies like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon.

World-class research centers and state-of-the-art laboratories.

Strong emphasis on entrepreneurship and innovation.

2. Delhi Technological University (DTU)

Formerly known as Delhi College of Engineering (DCE), DTU is one of the most prestigious engineering universities in India. Established in 1941, it offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in engineering, management, and applied sciences.

Key Highlights:

Diverse specializations in engineering disciplines.

Strong focus on practical learning and research.

Excellent placement opportunities in core and IT industries.

Active participation in national and international competitions.

3. Netaji Subhas University of Technology (NSUT)

NSUT, formerly known as Netaji Subhas Institute of Technology (NSIT), is a reputed engineering institution in Delhi. Known for its high-quality education and research-driven curriculum, NSUT offers B.Tech, M.Tech, and Ph.D. programs across various disciplines.

Key Highlights:

Highly qualified faculty with research expertise.

Strong industry connections with multinational companies and startups.

Focus on innovation, AI, and emerging technologies.

Excellent placement track record with recruiters like Google, Facebook, and Tata Consultancy Services (TCS).

4. Indraprastha Institute of Information Technology Delhi (IIIT-Delhi)

Established in 2008, IIIT-Delhi has quickly gained recognition as a leading institute for information technology and computer science. With a strong focus on research and industry collaboration, IIIT-Delhi offers cutting-edge courses in AI, data science, and cybersecurity.

Key Highlights:

Industry-driven curriculum tailored to meet modern technology trends.

High placement records with tech giants and startups.

Strong entrepreneurial ecosystem for budding innovators.

Research collaborations with global institutions.

5. Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University (GGSIPU) and Affiliated Colleges

GGSIPU is a state university offering engineering courses through its affiliated colleges, such as Maharaja Agrasen Institute of Technology (MAIT), Bharati Vidyapeeth’s College of Engineering (BVCOE), and Guru Tegh Bahadur Institute of Technology (GTBIT).

Key Highlights:

A wide variety of engineering branches available.

Affordable fee structure compared to private universities.

Good placement assistance and career guidance.

Industry exposure through internships and live projects.

6. Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) - Faculty of Engineering and Technology

JMI’s Faculty of Engineering and Technology (FET) is one of the most sought-after engineering institutions in Delhi. Established in 1985, it offers B.Tech, M.Tech, and Ph.D. programs across multiple engineering disciplines.

Key Highlights:

NAAC ‘A+’ accredited institution with high academic standards.

Affordable tuition fees for quality education.

Strong research focus with well-equipped laboratories.

Reputed placement opportunities in core and IT industries.

7. Indira Gandhi Delhi Technical University for Women (IGDTUW)

IGDTUW is one of the best engineering colleges for women in India. It offers B.Tech, M.Tech, and Ph.D. programs with a focus on empowering women in technology and engineering.

Key Highlights:

Exclusively for women, fostering a strong learning environment.

Collaboration with leading industries and research organizations.

Excellent placement record with companies like Microsoft, Google, and Amazon.

Strong focus on entrepreneurship and leadership.

8. Bhagwan Parshuram Institute of Technology (BPIT)

BPIT is another well-recognized engineering college affiliated with GGSIPU. It offers B.Tech and M.Tech programs in various engineering disciplines.

Key Highlights:

Good academic curriculum with an industry-aligned syllabus.

Focus on skill development and employability.

Placement opportunities in top software and core companies.

Active student societies and extracurricular activities.

9. Amity School of Engineering and Technology

A part of Amity University, this private institution is known for its modern infrastructure, global exposure, and research-driven curriculum.

Key Highlights:

State-of-the-art campus with world-class laboratories.

Strong focus on research and innovation.

High industry interaction and internship opportunities.

Global exchange programs with international universities.

Why Choose Delhi for Engineering Studies?

Delhi offers a unique combination of academic excellence, industry exposure, and career opportunities. Here are some reasons why students prefer engineering colleges in Delhi:

Top-Ranked Institutions: Home to IIT Delhi, DTU, and NSUT, which are among the best engineering colleges in India. 

Strong Placement Opportunities: Many companies, including MNCs and startups, actively recruit from Delhi colleges.

Research and Innovation: Colleges have tie-ups with leading industries and research organizations.

Affordable Education: Options range from government-funded institutions to private universities catering to different budgets.

Vibrant Student Life: The presence of cultural fests, tech competitions, and startup incubators makes learning more engaging.

Conclusion

Delhi’s engineering colleges offer world-class education, preparing students for successful careers in technology and innovation. With top-notch faculty, research opportunities, and excellent placement support, these institutes continue to attract thousands of aspiring engineers every year. Whether you're looking for a prestigious IIT education, a state university experience, or an industry-aligned private institute, Delhi has an option for everyone. Choosing the right college depends on your career goals, academic interests, and financial considerations, but rest assured, Delhi has some of the best engineering institutions in India.

[spacetimewithstuartgary]

NASA's mini BurstCube mission detects mega blast

The shoebox-sized BurstCube satellite has observed its first gamma-ray burst, the most powerful kind of explosion in the universe, according to a recent analysis of observations collected over the last several months.

“We’re excited to collect science data,” said Sean Semper, BurstCube’s lead engineer at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland. “It’s an important milestone for the team and for the many early career engineers and scientists that have been part of the mission.”

The event, called GRB 240629A, occurred on June 29 in the southern constellation Microscopium. The team announced the discovery in a GCN (General Coordinates Network) circular on August 29.

BurstCube deployed into orbit April 18 from the International Space Station, following a March 21 launch.

The mission was designed to detect, locate, and study short gamma-ray bursts, brief flashes of high-energy light created when superdense objects like neutron stars collide. These collisions also produce heavy elements like gold and iodine, an essential ingredient for life as we know it. 

BurstCube is the first CubeSat to use NASA’s TDRS (Tracking and Data Relay Satellite) system, a constellation of specialized communications spacecraft. Data relayed by TDRS (pronounced “tee-driss”) help coordinate rapid follow-up measurements by other observatories in space and on the ground through NASA’s GCN.

BurstCube also regularly beams data back to Earth using the Direct to Earth system — both it and TDRS are part of NASA’s Near Space Network.

After BurstCube deployed from the space station, the team discovered that one of the two solar panels failed to fully extend. It obscures the view of the mission’s star tracker, which hinders orienting the spacecraft in a way that minimizes drag. The team originally hoped to operate BurstCube for 12-18 months, but now estimates the increased drag will cause the satellite to re-enter the atmosphere in September. 

“I’m proud of how the team responded to the situation and is making the best use of the time we have in orbit,” said Jeremy Perkins, BurstCube’s principal investigator at Goddard. “Small missions like BurstCube not only provide an opportunity to do great science and test new technologies, like our mission’s gamma-ray detector, but also important learning opportunities for the up-and-coming members of the astrophysics community.”

BurstCube is led by Goddard. It’s funded by the Science Mission Directorate’s Astrophysics Division at NASA Headquarters. The BurstCube collaboration includes: the University of Alabama in Huntsville; the University of Maryland, College Park; the Universities Space Research Association in Washington; the Naval Research Laboratory in Washington; and NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville.

IMAGE: BurstCube, trailed by another CubeSat named SNOOPI (Signals of Opportunity P-band Investigation), emerges from the International Space Station on April 18, 2024. Credit NASA/Matthew Dominick

[biopractify]

How to Transition from Biotechnology to Bioinformatics: A Step-by-Step Guide

Biotechnology and bioinformatics are closely linked fields, but shifting from a wet lab environment to a computational approach requires strategic planning. Whether you are a student or a professional looking to make the transition, this guide will provide a step-by-step roadmap to help you navigate the shift from biotechnology to bioinformatics.

Why Transition from Biotechnology to Bioinformatics?

Bioinformatics is revolutionizing life sciences by integrating biological data with computational tools to uncover insights in genomics, proteomics, and drug discovery. The field offers diverse career opportunities in research, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, and AI-driven biological data analysis.

If you are skilled in laboratory techniques but wish to expand your expertise into data-driven biological research, bioinformatics is a rewarding career choice.

Step-by-Step Guide to Transition from Biotechnology to Bioinformatics

Step 1: Understand the Basics of Bioinformatics

Before making the switch, it’s crucial to gain a foundational understanding of bioinformatics. Here are key areas to explore:

Biological Databases – Learn about major databases like GenBank, UniProt, and Ensembl.

Genomics and Proteomics – Understand how computational methods analyze genes and proteins.

Sequence Analysis – Familiarize yourself with tools like BLAST, Clustal Omega, and FASTA.

🔹 Recommended Resources:

Online courses on Coursera, edX, or Khan Academy

Books like Bioinformatics for Dummies or Understanding Bioinformatics

Websites like NCBI, EMBL-EBI, and Expasy

Step 2: Develop Computational and Programming Skills

Bioinformatics heavily relies on coding and data analysis. You should start learning:

Python – Widely used in bioinformatics for data manipulation and analysis.

R – Great for statistical computing and visualization in genomics.

Linux/Unix – Basic command-line skills are essential for working with large datasets.

SQL – Useful for querying biological databases.

🔹 Recommended Online Courses:

Python for Bioinformatics (Udemy, DataCamp)

R for Genomics (HarvardX)

Linux Command Line Basics (Codecademy)

Step 3: Learn Bioinformatics Tools and Software

To become proficient in bioinformatics, you should practice using industry-standard tools:

Bioconductor – R-based tool for genomic data analysis.

Biopython – A powerful Python library for handling biological data.

GROMACS – Molecular dynamics simulation tool.

Rosetta – Protein modeling software.

🔹 How to Learn?

Join open-source projects on GitHub

Take part in hackathons or bioinformatics challenges on Kaggle

Explore free platforms like Galaxy Project for hands-on experience

Step 4: Work on Bioinformatics Projects

Practical experience is key. Start working on small projects such as:

✅ Analyzing gene sequences from NCBI databases ✅ Predicting protein structures using AlphaFold ✅ Visualizing genomic variations using R and Python

You can find datasets on:

NCBI GEO

1000 Genomes Project

TCGA (The Cancer Genome Atlas)

Create a GitHub portfolio to showcase your bioinformatics projects, as employers value practical work over theoretical knowledge.

Step 5: Gain Hands-on Experience with Internships

Many organizations and research institutes offer bioinformatics internships. Check opportunities at:

NCBI, EMBL-EBI, NIH (government research institutes)

Biotech and pharma companies (Roche, Pfizer, Illumina)

Academic research labs (Look for university-funded projects)

💡 Pro Tip: Join online bioinformatics communities like Biostars, Reddit r/bioinformatics, and SEQanswers to network and find opportunities.

Step 6: Earn a Certification or Higher Education

If you want to strengthen your credentials, consider:

🎓 Bioinformatics Certifications:

Coursera – Genomic Data Science (Johns Hopkins University)

edX – Bioinformatics MicroMasters (UMGC)

EMBO – Bioinformatics training courses

🎓 Master’s in Bioinformatics (optional but beneficial)

Top universities include Harvard, Stanford, ETH Zurich, University of Toronto

Step 7: Apply for Bioinformatics Jobs

Once you have gained enough skills and experience, start applying for bioinformatics roles such as:

Bioinformatics Analyst

Computational Biologist

Genomics Data Scientist

Machine Learning Scientist (Biotech)

💡 Where to Find Jobs?

LinkedIn, Indeed, Glassdoor

Biotech job boards (BioSpace, Science Careers)

Company career pages (Illumina, Thermo Fisher)

Final Thoughts

Transitioning from biotechnology to bioinformatics requires effort, but with the right skills and dedication, it is entirely achievable. Start with fundamental knowledge, build computational skills, and work on projects to gain practical experience.

Are you ready to make the switch? 🚀 Start today by exploring free online courses and practicing with real-world datasets!

[whenimpresident]

I would force every politician to attend two classes at the cheapest community college in their respective state they serve. At least one would be a science class such as biology, genetics, physics, or data science. This would be funded out of their paycheck as teaching opportunities.

[eponymous-rose]

I found it super useful to do this in a previous year, so here's all the stuff I've got going on for the next three-month quarter. Hope this is interesting to anyone thinking of going the academic route or just curious about what their professor does all day when they're not teaching!

Context: I'm a fifth-year assistant professor (tenure-track) at an R1 public university in a science field.

I'm just teaching the one class this quarter! It's a class I created myself and have taught on four previous occasions, so I have a lot of really great materials available to me. Its enrollment has also quadrupled since the first time I taught it. Womp-womp. Designing and giving lectures 3x/week, creating new assignments 1x/week (carefully ChatGPT-proofed when they're not integrating critical assessments of ChatGPT), writing two take-home midterms, grading all of the above, and, of course, innovating on the course. Trying out some fun new activities to replace the individual projects that have become unwieldy with this number of students. And, inevitably, the scheduled and unscheduled office hours.

I'm primary advisor for a great new grad student, but, in all the federal government's deadline-y wisdom, the grant proposal I was going to use to fund his research fell through. While we scramble to re-submit, the department has given me 9 months of funding, but that also means this student is going up for some highly competitive graduate fellowships to help fill the financial void. Lots of working with him to craft his very first proposal while we talk the undergrad to grad transition, classes, and These Winters Oh You Know (he's from the PNW, he's all set). His actual research is a little on hold for now, but we'll be doing some very cool stuff collaborating with a friend at another university as well as someone at a federal agency that I'm gonna sweet-talk into inviting us down for some in-person work in May. We meet for an hour every week.

As part of that, I'm meeting weekly with my co-PI on that failed proposal to craft a resubmission (we got very positive reviews, just didn't make the funding cutoff). It's a process!

My other active grad student is getting to the end of his PhD already! He just wrapped up two internships this summer and is full of ideas and new directions, which is great, but also: now is the time to find that finish line. He has his last pre-defense exam coming up soon, and my job is to make sure he has a solid story to tell that has a well-defined ending. I'd like to see him publish another paper before finishing as well, and I think he'll have no problems doing so. He's on a federal research grant and also needs to discharge some responsibilities there and make sure he has a transition plan in place for whoever takes over from him. Had a friend at another institution reach out expressing an interest in hiring him for a postdoc, and he's interested, so also going to try to get him a visit down there. We meet for an hour every week!

Said student has also initiated a collaboration with some of his friends from school back in China to do some truly wild stuff, and honestly in this case I'm just along for the ride and to gently steer them back on-course when they start getting a bit in the weeds. We're meeting every second week, and the biggest thing I have to do here is make sure he has open access to a supercomputer to do his thing. It's cool to have reached the stage where my main responsibility is to get out of his way.

Said student also independently reached out to someone with a really cool dataset, and after a meeting carefully smoothing over that e-mail from "blasé demand for free data" to "opportunity to collaborate as a team", we've got a pretty cool project lining up. Might have to wait until after his PhD defense, though.

I have another grad student who took a job elsewhere and really, really wanted to finish his Master's remotely, which is all well and good, but honestly, doing that while trying to start a new job is soul-crushingly difficult. Our department has recently created an option to get a Master's without writing a thesis, so I need to follow up on that and get him this Master's degree.

A former student has reached out about converting his Master's thesis to a journal article, and that'll be a long process, but sure? Maybe? We'll figure it out.

A colleague and I have decided to create a research project for an undergrad who reached out to us looking for opportunities to get more credits. We're still not 100% sure where we're going with this, and a lot will depend on her programming skills, but she's only a sophomore and so we'll ideally have several years to work together on this research. We meet once a week.

Said colleague and I are also working on blending our research groups a bit (mainly because it's awkward to have 3-person "group meetings"), and as part of that we're trying to find a time to have both groups do biweekly coffee-shop meetings where we discuss a cool paper in the field.

I'm participating in a weather forecasting competition that involves writing a forecast 4 days a week, occasionally sending out reminder e-mails, meeting weekly, and probably giving a briefing at some point.

Traveling in October to give an invited seminar at a very big-name university in my field. This has been happening more and more lately (I've now given invited seminars/keynotes in four different countries, to say nothing of the conference talks elsewhere) and I have a pretty solid template for a one-hour talk, but this is a group of people who specialize in my area of research, so I've gotta step up my game there. I'll also be meeting with folks there for a day and will have to figure out what to do with my course while I'm gone.

One other bit of out-of-state travel in October is to attend a meeting of a national group I'm a part of - they've thrown in an early-career workshop, and the whole thing is being paid for, so I'll be there for one extra day learning me a thing. Excited that my grad school officemate will be there!

Final travel this quarter will be during the final exam week, when I go to a giant conference in my field along with my nearly-finished PhD student - we'll both be giving talks there, and since it isn't my usual professional organization hosting it, I get to avoid all of my usual wave of volunteer responsibilities. Phew.

This isn't happening until January, but I was invited to speak at the biggest student conference in my field, and while I can't travel there, they've set up an opportunity for me to do it virtually - I need to get my materials to them by November, I think.

I'm still on the editorial board for three different academic journals, which comes with a fair number of reviews (often "tiebreakers" when the other peer reviewers are in disagreement) every month. Genuinely really enjoy it, because otherwise when the heck am I gonna find time to deep-read any new papers in my field? Also writing reviews for federal funding agency grants now, which is a longer process but also very interesting and helpful.

I'm coordinating the charitable fundraising among the faculty in my department this year - I have a meeting coming up with the head honcho at the university level about what charity drives we'll be doing in the run-up to the holiday season and then I think I just mostly forward e-mails? This is a new position for me.

I'm one of four faculty (plus a grad student) on a new hire search committee for a tenure-track faculty member. It's been interesting thus far, but due to some financial tapdancing going on at the moment, we may delay the hire by a year. Our department typically gets 100+ highly qualified applications for each position (which is wild, we're not huge and have like 21 faculty total), so that's a huge time sink once the ball gets rolling on it. We did put together the ad we were going to send out.

I extended my term on the college's scholarship committee, which generally involves a couple meetings a year of giving out extra money to students. Good stuff, especially since we received a gift at the college level recently that means nearly everyone who applies gets something.

I'm working on a research project I got funded through a small internal grant - it's been weird to have a research project that's just me doing coding and writing. I really need to block out some protected time for that! It's a fun project and I think I budgeted for two publications. We'll see how it turns out!

A while ago, I was approached by a truly giant scientific journal to write a review article about my entire research focus. I brought on three colleagues who had written similar reviews in the past, got our proposal approved, and promptly had multiple freakouts trying to get a full draft written. Recently got most of that draft completed and sent it to the editor, who had AMAZING and detailed feedback. This is the kind of article where we have an art team at our beck and call to create graphics for us. We really want to do this right.

I got pulled into a research thing with a national lab a while ago and keep forgetting about it - my role appears to be mostly done, and now I mostly just occasionally get random e-mails with dire security clearance warnings that amount to "I wrote this whitepaper report, can you confirm I properly represented your contribution?" It would be lovely if a publication came out of this, it's fun work (not military), but who knows.

A colleague and I are waiting to hear back on a really, really cool grant proposal we submitted a couple months ago. We probably still have 6 months before we hear anything, but man, I think about it every day. It would be so neat and the program manager agreed that it was an awesome idea, but of course now we're in the reviewers' hands. We might do some preliminary work in anticipation of possibly having to resubmit next year.

Speaking of grant proposals, I need to at least put a draft together for a new project. As my grad students graduate, I need funding to bring new ones on! This is also the one thing my department chair has suggested is a little weak on my CV: number of grants obtained. It's SUCH a long process, with probably 80-100 hours of work for each grant proposal written. Ugh. It is fun when it's an idea I'm excited about, at least.

I'm on the committees of about a half-dozen grad students (and am anticipating possibly hearing from one more) - my role is mostly to provide very occasional guidance on the overall research project, providing specialized knowledge the student and their primary advisor may not have, and attending all exams. I also have to keep an eye out for and help mediate any issues between the student and their advisor. That can get messy.

We have 3 weekly seminars in the department! They're very interesting and I'm mostly just glad I'm not coordinating one of the seminar series this year.

I've started getting inquiries from potential graduate students. See above re: not knowing if I'll have funding for a new student next year. Why can't we just coordinate our deadlines?

I've started working with a science advisory board for a major organization within my field, which has been interesting so far! As a more junior member, my input isn't being super actively sought yet, so I get to just learn about the processes involved and nod sagely a lot. Thankfully the two-day meeting last week was remote.

I'm on another national committee that's currently working on organizing our next big conference in late 2024. There's always a lot that goes into that (and I don't have a super high opinion of the guy running the group after he posted some crappy stuff about students on social media), but thankfully I've managed to dodge some of the bigger responsibilities.

I'm part of a very cool peer-mentoring group where I chat weekly with scientists in different-but-comparable fields about any and all of the above. It's very nice to have a bit of a place to vent!

Oh yes, and the tenure/promotion-application process kicks off this year. I have a meeting next week with my mentoring committee to see if they feel I'm ready to go up. Here goes nothing...

I think that's mostly it? It's gonna be a busy 3 months. Time to make some lists...

[mathhombre]

Summer Math

As usual, great work from OURFA2M2.

REU Programs

Discrete and Continuous Analysis in Appalachia

Program Runs: June 3 - July 26

Application Deadline: March 4th

Undergraduate US citizens who expect to graduate AFTER July 26, 2024, and especially such students attending university in the Appalachian region apply for the DCAA REU. The projects center around probability and data analysis, as well as linear algebra and combinatorics. 

Participants will receive a $4,800 stipend and paid housing for 8 weeks during Summer 2024.

Participants funded by DCAA must be US Citizens or Permanent Residents of the United States. Students who are women, underrepresented minorities, first-generation college students, and those whose home institution have limited research opportunities in mathematics are encouraged to apply.

Applied Mathematics and Computational and Data Science

Hosted at University of Texas Rio Grande Valley 

Program Runs: June 13th - August 12th

Review of applications will begin on March 15, 2024 and offers will be made by April 1, but competitive late applications may be considered until April 15. 

Students will work collaboratively on group research projects in applied mathematics, mathematical modeling, and computational and data science, including applying theoretical models to physical and biological phenomena. In the application the student should choose one of the two possible research topics:

Wave Phenomena and Mathematical Modeling

Mathematical Modeling of Spatial Processes and Deep Spatial Learning

Only US citizens or permanent residents are eligible. 

Women and underrepresented groups in Mathematics are encouraged to apply!

Stipend $5400 plus $900 meal allowance and $1000 travel expenses. Housing will be provided. 

Computational Modeling Serving The Community

Program runs: June 10th - August 16th

Application Deadline: March 31st

Held Virtually in 2024

The focus of this REU is computational modeling to serve and enhance communities. Students will be involved in multi-disciplinary, community-based research projects and trained in computational thinking across different disciplines. In doing so, they will gain an understanding of the potential and limits of these tools and how they can serve diverse communities.

The activities of this virtual REU Site will involve a 2-week training followed by an 8-week research project completed under a faculty mentor’s guidance and with the involvement of a community partner.

Only US citizens or permanent residents are eligible. 

Students from institutions with limited STEM and research opportunities (such as 2-year community colleges) and tribal colleges/universities are specifically encouraged to apply.

Stipend $7000 + $1400 meal allowance and $2200 housing allowance

REU Program in Algebra and Discrete Mathematics at Auburn University

Program Dates: May 28 - July 19

Application Deadline: March 25th

See the program webpage for more info on problems and ares.

Participants will receive a stipend of $4,500 and will live near campus at 191 College with housing paid.

NSF funding is restricted to US citizens and permanent residents. Other self-funded students are welcome to apply.

Polymath Jr.

Program Runs: June 20th - August 14th

Application Deadline: April 1st

Application Here

The Polymath Jr program is an online summer research program for undergraduates. The program consists of research projects from a wide variety of fields. For more information go to the website linked above.

The goal of the original polymath project is to solve problems by forming an online collaboration between many mathematicians. Each project consists of 20-30 undergraduates, a main mentor, and additional mentors (usually graduate students). This group works towards solving a research problem and writing a paper.  Each participant decides what they wish to obtain from the program, and participates accordingly. 

MathILy-EST

Program runs: June 16th - August 10th

Application Deadline: April 2th

In 2024 the MathILy-EST topic will be combinatorial geometry of origami, an area that mixes discrete mathematics, geometry, and analysis, under the direction of Dr. Thomas Hull.

MathILy-EST is an 8-week intensive summer research experience for exceptional first-year college students. MathILy-EST provides early research opportunities each year for nine college students who are deeply but informally prepared for mathematics research. The focus of the program is on first-year students, with second-year and entering college students also considered for participation.

Stipend- $4800, housing and meals included. 

Internships

Jet Propulsion Laboratory Summer Internship

Programs Begin: May and June

Registration Deadline: March 29th

Summer Internship ProgramThe JPL Summer Internship Program offers 10-week, full-time, summer internship opportunities at JPL to undergraduate and graduate students pursuing degrees in science, technology, engineering or mathematics. As part of their internships, students are partnered with JPL scientists or engineers, who serve as the students' mentors. Students complete designated projects outlined by their mentors, gaining educational experience in their fields of study while also contributing to NASA and JPL missions and science.

Conferences

Women in Data Science Livermore 

“WiDS Livermore is an independent event organized by LLNL ambassadors to coincide with the annual global Women in Data Science (WiDS) Conference held at Stanford University and an estimated 200+ locations worldwide. All genders are invited to attend WiDS regional events, which features outstanding women doing outstanding work…This one-day technical conference provides an opportunity to hear about the latest data science related research and applications in a number of domains, and connect with others in the field. The program features thought leaders covering a wide range of domains from data ethics and privacy, healthcare, data visualization, and more.”

Hybrid, free event: In-person at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, or Virtual

Registration Deadline: March 1, 2023

Date: March 13

The International Mathematics and Statistics Student Research Symposium (IMSSRS)

Date: April 13, 2023.

Location: Virtual

“IMSSRS is a free conference for all mathematics and statistics students (high school, community college, undergraduate, graduate) to share their research with the rest of the world, to learn about current research topics and to hang out with like-minded math and stat enthusiasts. Presenters must be students, but everyone is welcome as an attendee. Please feel free to share this opportunity with other students who might be interested.”

Abstract submission and registration deadlines: March 22, 2023.

To learn more, please visit the the IMSSRS website. 

OURFA2M2

Online Undergraduate Resource Fair for the 

Advancement and Alliance of Marginalized Mathematicians

Ashka Dalal, Gavi Dhariwal, Bowen Li, Zoe Markman, tahda queer, Jenna Race, Luke Seaton, Salina Tecle, Lee Trent ourfa2m2@gmail.com ourfa2m2.org