Guidelines for use of AI in research

The AI in Research subcommittee of the University’s AI Council recently released new Responsible Use of Generative AI in Research guidelines. These guidelines are designed to support the University’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of integrity and accountability in research involving AI. Researchers are encouraged to familiarize themselves with these principles, as they will play a critical role in shaping the collective approach to AI-driven research across disciplines. The subcommittee also values the input of the research community on these guidelines and their usefulness. Upon reviewing the guidelines, consider completing this short four-question survey to share your feedback.

Your brain is full of microplastics: Are they harming you?

Nature, February 11

Plastics might affect each organ or cell type differently. The dose matters, too, as well as the route of ingestion, says Alison Elder, an associate professor of environmental medicine. “The inhalation route is a major concern because if inhaled plastics can get into the deep lung and cause an inflammatory reaction, they don’t need to go anywhere to cause health outcomes.”

Sustainability Office welcomes new programs specialist

Maryellen Zbrozek joins the Sustainability Office as the new sustainability programs specialist. Read more about the role. 

Professor of the Year and Stars in Service nominations

Help honor professors and service workers for their effort and dedication by nominating them as a Professor of the Year or a Star in Service. Nominations for the awards, sponsored by the Students’ Association, will be accepted through February 28.

Workshop for graduate TAs on fostering inclusivity

This Teaching Center workshop is for any graduate student or postdoctoral fellow at the University. Learn practical, evidence-based approaches to engage all learners and create an inclusive classroom environment. Register here to attend via Zoom on Friday, February 14, from 11 a.m. to noon.

Register your summer 2025 program by Friday

If your department or office plans to host a conference or a residential or day program on the River Campus during summer 2025, you must complete the Summer 2025 Program Registration Form by Friday, February 14. The form is a required step in the planning process for all River Campus summer programs. If your program is not registered, it may not be allocated resources and space on campus. Contact the Office of Summer and Continuing Studies with questions.

Learn about Simon’s part-time programs for working professionals

Stop by at your convenience and chat with an admissions representative about Simon Business School’s programs for working professionals on Thursday, February 13, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Saunders Research Building, Medical Center. Learn about Simon’s programs for working professionals, gain insights tailored to your career goals, and have your questions answered about Simon scholarships and University tuition benefits—which may cover 80 to 95 percent of tuition for eligible employees. You’ll leave with a Simon gift, an application fee waiver, and a complimentary cup of coffee.

Financial Health Bites tax strategies webinar

The Office of Total Rewards hosts a webinar on Wednesday, February 19, at noon on tax planning steps, tax basics, diversification, cutting your tax bill, and when to call a professional. The webinar will be conducted by a MetLife representative. Register online to reserve your spot.

NSF I-Corps information session

NSF I-Corps Regional Courses are for University-based STEM researchers and early-stage startup founders interested in exploring their work’s market potential and learning entrepreneurial skills. Participants learn to apply “customer discovery” methodology to evaluate the potential for translating their technology innovation from the lab into a successful product and/or service. The program can provide you with professional training, mentoring, and up to $50,000 in funding for customer discovery. Register to attend a virtual information session on Thursday, February 20, from noon to 12:45 p.m. to learn more about NSF I-Corps.

Phelps Colloquium lecture series

The Phelps Colloquium lecture series allows faculty to learn about research taking place campus-wide, spend time with colleagues outside their usual spheres, and promote cross-school and crossdiscipline collaborations. RSVP here for upcoming sessions.

• Defining “Best Interest” in Pediatric Care: A Comparative Analysis of US and UK Approaches: Wednesday, March 5, 4 to 5:30 p.m.
• The Electronic Wind Instrument and the Reorganization of the Jazz World: Wednesday, April 23, 4 to 5:30 p.m.

Extend your healthspan

By completing your Personal Health Assessment, which consists of two online health surveys and biometric screening, you will know where your present health stands. If something needs to be tweaked, you can take steps to do that with access to Well-U programs or your primary physician. Get started here.

Participate in a research study on cognitive control

Healthy individuals ages 30 to 80 years old are needed to participate in a research study on cognitive control. The study involves a phone screening and, if qualified, two 90-minute MRI sessions on separate visits at the University’s Center for Advanced Brain Imaging and Neurophysiology. Participants will perform computer-based cognitive tasks while inside the MRI machine. Compensation is up to $160. If interested, email rain_paul@urmc.rochester.edu or call (315) 326-1061 to leave a message.

Congratulations to Rochester’s squash team, which earned its sixth straight—and 12th overall—Liberty League title in team history following an 8-1 win over host St. Lawrence University.