Archive Index

Chasing beauty

Koohyar Karimi '08 uses morphing software to explore the weird science of physical attraction.

Meeting the walrus

Rock journalist David Goggin's magical mystery career launched with a little help from UCI courses and work study.

From bench to business

UCI biomedical researchers put on their entrepreneurial hats to improve human health.

Passing the barre

Dance professor Jodie Gates makes leap from performing to presenting the art of ballet.

UCI's faithful steward

Sam McCulloch has been a professor, historian and supporter of the campus since it was but a dream he shared with its founders.

New era in healthcare

UC Irvine's University Hospital opens its doors in March, bringing the latest technologies and treatments to the people of Orange County.

Kicking the oil habit

Three voices of alternative energy talk about their efforts to tap new fuel sources.

Doctor for the destitute

Dr. Emily Dow heals the poorest patients on both sides of the border.

Envisioning change

Frank Wilderson recounts Nelson Mandela's unfulfilled promise.

How things work

With his power tools, physics & chemistry professor Wilson Ho sheds light on molecules and atoms in action.

Perfect chemistry

A conversation with 30-year collaborators F. Sherwood Rowland and Donald Blake.

With patients in mind

Staff members offer insiders' view of the new University Hospital.

Lawyers in training

Saturday Academy of Law prepares students for college, legal careers.

Letting the sun shine in

The future looks bright for alumna Allison Case, soon to star in 'Hair' on Broadway.

Scout's honor

Undergraduate Ruben Hipolito goes to Washington, D.C., to deliver the Boy Scouts' 'Report to the Nation' to President Obama.

Wise scientist

Molecular biologist Masayasu Nomura has devoted his life to probing the mysteries of ribosomes.

A Holocaust childhood

Ruth Kluger's enduring account of growing up in Nazi-occupied Austria has touched millions.

Mission to mars

Real-life rocket man and UCI alumnus Michael Martin helped put two rovers on the Red Planet.

Balancing the planet

Michael Prather discusses UCI's new environment institute.

Setting the stage for hope

Behind the scenes of "Greek Songfest," students like Michelle Spooner work hard to put on a really big show and fundraiser.

Ahead of his class

For Brandon Gross, being the youngest student on campus is no big deal.

A role in medicine

By feigning illness, volunteers introduce medical students to the human side of healthcare.

Fighting for their lives

Dr. Leonard Sender is a leading advocate for a neglected demographic: young adults with cancer.

Road warriors

Institute of Transportation Studies graduates keep people moving.

Healing paws

Marianne Lovejoy's basset hounds raise spirits, lower blood pressure at UC Irvine Medical Center.

Eye for light

Photographs by undergraduate Hoang Xuan Pham show fresh perspectives on and off campus.

Science vs. faith

Evolutionary biologist and ordained priest Francisco Ayala has been speaking at events worldwide marking Charles Darwin's 200th birthday.

Rise of 'Eater nation

A student fee to bring back baseball sparked the current Anteater sports revival.

Goodbye, UCI

Graduates from the class of 2009 take a final pop quiz about their campus experience.

Clearing the air

UC Irvine cuts greenhouse gas emissions from the (efficiently irrigated) ground up.

Raising the bar

Rachel Moran, law school founding faculty member, calls for the return of the citizen-lawyer.

Voice of the people

As the next student regent, Jesse Cheng will represent his UC peers.

End of an era

UCI bids farewell to retiring Dean of Students Sally Peterson, a major contributor to campus life for 35 years.

Wave of the future

Portable ultrasound scanners in the ER can save lives, says Dr. Chris Fox, by expediting diagnosis.

In Ansel Adams' footsteps

Re-creating the master's 1960s-era photos of UCI: a then-and-now campus slide show and story.

Race against the clock

Leslie Thompson's stem cell research gives hope to Huntington's patients, for whom time is the enemy.

Shaping surfboards - and smiles

UCI alumnus Daniel Boehne could have been a pro surfer; instead he chose dentistry to help others.

Healing the tiniest patients

New nursing graduates begin satisfying careers caring for critically ill and premature newborns at UC Irvine Douglas Hospital. A slide show and story.

Ray of hope

The Illumination Foundation, started by six UCI students, helps homeless families find the way back to self-sufficiency.

A matter of protocol

Alumnus Roy Fielding was a principal author of the now-familiar HTTP that guides the flow of information over the Internet.

Going to extremes

Whether he's studying cells, taking photographs or running 135-mile marathons, Ian Parker pushes the limits. A story and slide show of Parker's pictures.

Master of improvisation

Jazz pianist, composer and teacher Kei Akagi connects with people through his music. A story and video.

Leading by example

Economics undergrad Sarah Bana serves her campus and community with a singular purpose: making the world a better place.

Getting the lead out

E-waste expert Oladele Ogunseitan seeks to eradicate toxins from cell phones, computers and other common electronic products. Take a video tour of his lab to find out how he's protecting public health.

Lessons in laughter

For Eli Simon, clowning is high art. UCI drama chair and director of the critically acclaimed "Clownzilla" troupe, Simon teaches students to find their "inner clown." See them in action in our video and slide show.

Patient advocate

Dr. Ralph Clayman brings surgical precision and a singular focus on healing to his new role as medical school dean.

Nature's steward

William Bretz preserves the fragile San Joaquin marsh for researchers, students, and the creatures that call it home — like this common yellowthroat warbler. Also, a video slide show reveals the wetlands' wild beauty in sound and pictures.

Bringing hope and health to Duroville

UCI medical students come to the aid of an impoverished Coachella Valley community. Read about their efforts and take a video tour of the shantytown where they help Latino laborers and farmworkers.

Bridging the healthcare divide

Nurse Jill Berg translates clinical knowledge into real-world advice for low-income families coping with asthma.

A glass half empty

UCI hydrologist Jay Famiglietti calls much-needed attention to the dwindling groundwater supply in California and beyond. In this Q&A, he discusses new satellite technology that could help keep the wells from running dry.

Bringing hope and health to Duroville

"Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible," says the Dalai Lama. Senior Jasmine Fang, who won a scholarship in his name, has taken those words to heart. She's organizing Kindness Month on campus in May.

Bridging the healthcare divide

Neuroscientist James Fallon went searching for the biological hallmarks of a murderer – but the trail led a little too close to home. He found potential killers in his family tree, among them the notorious Lizzie Borden.

From the ground up

As Haiti begins rebuilding after a devastating earthquake, three UCI professors discuss how it could emerge a stronger country. For better or worse, Amy Wilentz notes, the catastrophe "erased both the personal and political past."

Well versed

For the talented few admitted, UCI's graduate writing program in poetry offers a mix of creativity, criticism and, often, acclaim. Discover how the program helps poets find their voice and hear them read selected works.

The entertainer

Through his piano playing, engineering student Jared DiBartolomeo helps revive ragtime for a new generation. Read about his devotion to the genre and watch a video of him at the keyboard.

Hub of healing

Dedication of UCI's Sue and Bill Gross Hall is a milestone in the effort to unlock stem cells' potential. The facility represents hope for patients like Nan Luke, seen here in its main entrance. See the video of the center's May 14 opening day celebration.

Uncovering elder abuse

Studies on bruising, memory by UCI's geriatrics program facilitate investigation, prosecution of cases. One finding: Most seniors can recall source of intentional injury.

Game boy

Can't stop playing 'Guitar Hero' or other computer games that let you morph into a rock star? Blame your addiction on alumnus Chris Canfield, who helped create them.

Trashing the ocean

William Cooper follows the trail of plastic debris that's spreading from the coast to the deep sea. Such wanton waste, he says, is a disturbing sign of people's apathy about the planet.

Toxic tides

This summer, surfers and swimmers will risk more than sunburn — the ocean could make them sick. UCI researchers are testing the waters and working to improve the detection, identification, measurement and elimination of coastal pollutants.

Catching waves — on canvas

Alumnus Robb Havassy rides high in the gnarly world of surf art. Although he never took a painting class at UCI or intended to be an artist, he's enjoying the kind of success some only dream about.

Time traveler

With his bow ties and seersucker suits, Roger McWilliams might seem old-fashioned, but the UCI physicist invents futuristic laser tools that have advanced everything from telecommunications to healthcare.

Just the facts

UCI professor Susan Turner studies crime and punishment to help state policymakers develop prison and parole programs based on effectiveness — not emotion or politics.

Targeting tumors

Dr. Rita Mehta's research has led to more effective breast cancer treatments, with lifesaving results. She was among the first oncologists to use a special form of preoperative chemotherapy — a once-radical concept that's now standard procedure.

No stopping her

On the skating rink, she's the fierce roller derby player B-Train. In the business arena, she's Bethany Semeiks, with a 'Wicked' apparel company and a newly minted M.B.A. from UCI. Don't get in her way.

Testing the powers of recall

For those who fear their forgetfulness is a sign of Alzheimer's disease, UCI's Memory Assessment Clinic offers hope of early, accurate diagnosis and better quality of life.

At art's edge

For a decade, UCI's innovative Beall Center has been showcasing technology-based work and challenging perceptions. And visitors often end up as part of the exhibits.

UCI's galactic tour guide

Cosmologist and soon-to-debut TV host James Bullock helps people see the really big picture — from the Milky Way to the farthest reaches of the universe. He's one of the "bright young stars" in his field.

Grace under pressure

Undergraduate Karen Zhou earns high marks in figure skating competitions and in school. Elegant on the ice, she could be on her way to Olympic glory.

Stressing the positive

UCI professor Salvatore R. Maddi has changed the way many view stress. Not only is it an unavoidable part of life, he argues, it can be good for us — as an agent of personal growth.

Medicine's new wave

By providing students with technological devices such as iPads and portable ultrasounds, UC Irvine School of Medicine is revolutionizing the way healthcare is taught. For the future doctors, such tools could one day be as standard as the stethoscope.

Crossing cultures

Justin Richland, associate professor of criminology, law & society, anthropology and law, knew early on that he didn't want a typical career. He found his niche in the Native American legal system.

Healing the wounds of war

Dramatic readings of ancient Greek plays directed by UCI alumnus Bryan Doerries provide a forum for veterans recovering from post-traumatic stress — or 'divine madness' — of modern-day combat.

For prolific African author, the stories never end

Ngugi wa Thiong'o has garnered worldwide acclaim for his novels about Kenya, but he says there's still more work to be done. Writing against powers that attempt to defeat the human spirit remains a daily endeavor.

UCI botanist is America's scientist abroad

Michael Clegg is a man on the move. As foreign secretary for the U.S. National Academy of Sciences, he travels the world helping scientific groups tackle "issues of the 21st century."

Breathing lessons

Leigh Poirier Ball, acting director of the UCI Health Education Center, shows the campus community how calming the mind benefits the body. She teaches relaxation techniques that can have a lasting impact on people's health.

For the birds

UCI cactus restoration program aims to boost the population of a rare wren. Biologists are creating a welcoming habitat near campus that they hope will help the species thrive.

Vice and virtue

Criminology, law & society professor John Dombrink studies changing mores — how what's considered a sin today can become accepted behavior tomorrow.

Building better Roombas — and other machines

Though her studies on instant messaging, iTunes and even robotic vacuums might make some people LOL, alumna Rebecca Grinter has a serious quest: to understand the social impact of technology and improve human-computer interaction.

For Clan of the Anteaters

Undergraduate and tennis standout Kristina Smith comes from an extended family of UCI alumni that includes her grandmother, mother, nine aunts and uncles and a cousin or two.

Safe haven

UCI law students have joined efforts to help Iraqi refugees trapped in a legal limbo. The displaced can't go home again, but resettling in the U.S. or another welcoming country can take months or years of complicated paperwork.

Matters of the heart

Dr. Dawn M. Lombardo directs a UC Irvine Medical Center program to combat cardiovascular disease through research, treatment and education. She's especially interested in improving care for women.

Giving others a break

While their peers party on, some UCI students spend spring vacation working on various service projects, from planting a garden at a Native American reservation in San Diego County to putting the shine on the Golden Gate national park in San Francisco.

Sharper images

UCI ophthalmologist Dr. Roger Steinert has been on the cutting edge of laser eye surgery, developing techniques that have helped improve the eyesight of millions.

Leader of the pack

What makes Charles Jock the fastest half-miler in UCI history? "A brilliant desire to be the best," says his coach, Vince O'Boyle.

Fostering their potential

Youths released from foster care at 18 too often find themselves without a diploma, a job or even a home. UCI and the Guardian Scholars Program are helping emancipated young adults, such as UCI undergraduate Cecelia Brody, work toward college degrees and a promising future.

Expanding the role of robots

SpineAssist system adds to UC Irvine firsts in the operating room. Surgeons continue to find innovative uses for the technology, including thyroid, lung and colorectal procedures.

All the lonely people

Professor Karen Rook studies relationships and how they affect one's health and happiness. Her research has shed light on the psychological toll of loneliness on the elderly.

Blueprint for hope

Rebekah Gladson draws on her experience as UCI campus architect to build an orphanage in India. For her, the comparatively small project has offered big challenges — and even greater rewards by sheltering and educating street children.

Building better lives

Engineers Without Borders takes students far beyond the classroom to assist communities in developing countries. The UCI chapter has been working to bring safe drinking water and sanitation facilities to a remote Kenyan village.

If he ran the zoo? (Actually, he does)

As director of the Santa Ana Zoo, Kent Yamaguchi has seen the arrival of a pair of giant anteaters and the birth of their baby. The UCI alumnus couldn't be more proud.

A higher goal

UCI soccer player Kala Gabler has teamed with friends to help increase Ugandans' access to clean water. They run sports camps for kids to raise money for the cause.

Summer syllabus

It's time to put away the textbooks and indulge in a little seasonal reading. Some new titles by UCI faculty and alumni could be just the thing to bring to the beach.

Freshman bucket list

Want to maximize your UCI experience? Here's a list of 50 things to do during your undergraduate years, according to older (and presumably wiser) upperclassmen. They came up with the roster in honor of the university's 50th anniversary in 2015 — when current freshmen will graduate.

Morality unmasked

Are you conservative or liberal? Which do you value more — fairness or loyalty? Are you confident when it comes to solving ethical quandaries? Find out at a survey website co-developed by UCI researchers. The results might surprise you.

Patents pending

UCI's licensing officers help campus researchers protect their inventions. They work to transform ideas into viable products that benefit people — from tiny cochlear implants that restore hearing to devices that warn of infants' health problems.

Plato meets pilsner

UCI alumnus Matt Lawrence pairs beer with deep questions on life. His new book, Philosophy on Tap, aims to give people a taste for important ideas by Socrates, Nietzsche, the Buddha and other great thinkers.

Sharing the fruits of his labor

Renowned UCI geneticist and vineyard owner Francisco Ayala's $10 million gift to the School of Biological Sciences is the largest donation ever by a professor here.

Lighting the way

Three UCI researchers come up with a device to protect the top layer of skin during laser treatment for vascular birthmarks – enabling the early, painless and safe minimization of port-wine stains.

Getting in tune with patients

A program launched by UCI medical students brings the therapeutic sound of music into hospital rooms. Founder Matt Fradkin says playing and listening to "silent instruments" helps ease pain and aid healing.

Measuring mental aftershocks

Graduate student Dana Garfin works with Chilean officials to assess the psychological toll of the devastating 2010 earthquake. She's found that children living near the epicenter were "highly traumatized."

Can robots take over rehab?

Machines that help people regain use of their arms and legs are no longer the stuff of science fiction. At UCI, professor David Reinkensmeyer develops devices designed to restore movement to damaged limbs.

Different breed of therapist

A program launched by UCI medical students brings the therapeutic sound of music into hospital rooms. Founder Matt Fradkin says playing and listening to "silent instruments" helps ease pain and aid healing.

Uncharted territory

Neuroscientist Ivan Soltesz has helped shed light on the inner workings of the human brain. His research offers hope to millions who suffer from epilepsy.

'Eater bros

Alumni Rameen and Shauhin Talesh are a lot alike. They love sports, music and UCI. Both have returned to campus to pursue careers and give back to their alma mater.

Brilliant disguise

Al Valdez has gone from undercover cop who infiltrated dangerous street gangs to college instructor. The UCI alumnus and lecturer shares his often-harrowing experiences with students, giving them an education in real-world criminal behavior.

Fortunate son

UCI alumnus Daniel Do-Khanh is behind an effort to collect the stories of Vietnamese refugees who escaped their homeland after the fall of Saigon. It's his way of giving back to the campus and community that helped him fulfill his own American dream.

A cure for healthcare

Faculty and students in UCI's nursing science program help those in need at a wellness center in Santa Ana. Their nurse-managed practice is a first for Orange County and a way to ease the growing physician shortage.

UCI loses the legendary F. Sherwood Rowland

The Nobel Prize-winning chemist and founding faculty member died Saturday, March 10. He leaves a legacy of courageous research and leadership in atmospheric science.

Candid campus

With his camera, anthropologist Frank Cancian has documented the ebb and flow of activity on Ring Mall. His "Main Street UCI" photo project includes a blog where students reflect on university life.

Keeping hospitals healthy

Linda Dickey leads UC Irvine Medical Center's efforts to prevent the spread of hospital-acquired infectious diseases. Several initiatives have proven so effective that they've been adopted at other facilities as healthcare workers unite against a deadly enemy.

Science, stem cells and serendipity

UCI researchers Aileen Anderson and Brian Cummings developed a stem cell therapy that's now the first in the world to be tested in human clinical trials. The husband-and-wife team has given new hope to those with spinal cord injury.

Role model

UCI drama alumnus Jeff Greenberg has found big success behind the scenes as one of television's most influential casting directors. He's helped populate sitcoms with some of their most memorable characters, from the snooty Niles to the effusive Cam.

Growing up, 'geeking out'

UCI cultural anthropologist Mizuko "Mimi" Ito studies how digital media such as Facebook and video games are changing the way today's plugged-in youth live and learn. She has good news for parents worried that their kids are just wasting time on smartphones and other tech gadgets.

No mere flight of fancy

Though he's already made great contributions to aeronautics, UCI engineering professor Robert Liebeck won't give up on two things: teaching and an experimental plane that could transform air travel. Shown: a prototype of the blended-wing-body jet, a Boeing-NASA effort.

Marking their territory

Business professor Mary Gilly explores how customers stake out tables at coffeehouses and cafes. A marketing expert, she studies the sometimes unintended results of efforts to control consumer behavior.

Finding his bliss

A love of discovery led UCI's Daniele Piomelli to determine how the body's own marijuana-like chemicals can be utilized to treat stress, pain and obesity — and positioned him as a spokesman for the medicinal use of cannabis.

From research to reel

James Fallon (pictured), Gregory Benford and other UCI faculty members have Hollywood connections. Their work and expertise have inspired television dramas and movies. But the scripts, they've found, often deviate from the truth.

Out of harm's way

Since his days at UCI, alumnus Arif Alikhan has been dedicated to protecting people. An expert in counterterrorism and homeland security, he now keeps watch over the world's sixth busiest airport: LAX.

Weighing the Earth's fate

Using sophisticated satellite technology, Isabella Velicogna documents the ice sheet melt in Greenland and Antarctica. The assistant professor of Earth system science has shown that glaciers are losing mass at an increasing rate — a trend with dire implications for the planet.