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May 12, 2025

Text-to-video AI blossoms with new metamorphic video capabilities

A gif of dandelions growing.

Computer scientists, including Jiebo Luo, the Albert Arendt Hopeman Professor of Engineering, and Jinfa Huang, a PhD student supervised by Luo, have developed MagicTime, a new AI text-to-video model that learns real-world physics knowledge from time-lapse videos. The model can be used to simulate not only biological metamorphosis but also buildings undergoing construction or bread baking in the oven.

Today’s issue features:

  • A reminder about summer shuttle schedules, Commencement transportation, and Safe Ride
  • Information about the Goergen Institute’s seed funding program
  • Recipients of this year’s Student Life Awards
SECURITY TIP

How to properly dispose of electronic devices

Do you have unused electronics collecting dust? Perhaps it’s time for digital spring cleaning. Since 2015, New York State law has required the recycling of virtually all electronics, with fines for noncompliance starting at $100 per incident. For personal electronics, you can securely recycle digital devices free of charge through the IT Equipment Recovery Program. The UR Tech Store provides a list of equipment eligible for recycling and different recycling options. When ready, you can either request a pickup or drop off electronics at the UR Tech Store’s Medical Center location, Room G-7220B, between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.

If you’re ready to part with University-owned or -managed devices, contact your local IT support organization. Review this video on “Need to Know Proper Disposal.”

Before disposing of personal devices, follow steps on factory resetting and wiping the devices from Apple and Google.


ROCHESTER IN THE NEWS

Tariffs are impacting Gen Z spending. Here’s how they can financially cope

US News and World Report, May 8

“The best way to track your money is to write down every penny you spend. Do that for a month and look at it, and you’ll change how you spend money,” says Daniel Burnside, a clinical professor at Simon Business School.


ICYMI

Summer shuttle schedules, Commencement transportation, and Safe Ride

Here are noteworthy details on shuttle schedules, Commencement Day services, and the Safe Ride program:

  • Spring shuttle schedules will end on Thursday, May 15, with summer shuttle schedules beginning on Monday, May 19.
  • On Friday, May 16, Commencement Day, shuttles will operate from River Campus parking lots and the Eastman Living Center to Fauver Stadium between 7 a.m. and 2 p.m. Medical Center shuttle routes will run on their regular schedule.
  • For the first time, the University’s Safe Ride program will extend into the summer months, with one van operating nightly from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. Safe Ride stops on the River Campus, the Medical Center, the Eastman School of Music, and residence halls. Find the full list of stops and details for requesting a ride.

FOR STUDENTS

Health insurance literacy panel for graduating students

Graduating seniors: Do you have questions about navigating the US health insurance system, knowing what to look for when signing up for insurance through your future employer, or having a plan to find a new doctor and counselor? Get answers to these questions and more at the Health Insurance Literacy Panel on Tuesday, May 13, from 3 to 4 p.m. in Morey Hall, Room 321.


FOR FACULTY AND STAFF

ADHD treatment now offered through BHP

Behavioral Health Partners now offers diagnostic assessments and treatment for ADHD through Well-UEligible employees can receive confidential mental health support by calling to schedule an appointment at (585) 276-6900.

Retirement program webinars

From shifting global policies to economic uncertainty, now is the time to equip yourself with timely insights and actionable strategies. Join TIAA for a webinar series to understand current trends and find guidance to help you stay focused on your long-term financial goals. The webinars will be held on Tuesday, May 13, from noon to 12:30 p.m.; Tuesday, June 10, from noon to 12:30 p.m.; and Wednesday, July 9, from noon to 1 p.m. Reserve your spot.

Goergen Institute 2025–26 seed funding program

The Goergen Institute for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence is accepting proposals for 2025–26 seed grants in data science and artificial intelligence.

The maximum funding amount is $30,000 for one year. PIs must be full-time University faculty members, and at least one co-PI must be a Goergen Institute-affiliated faculty member. Proposals will be accepted until Monday, June 16, at 11:59 p.m. Find more information here.

Need last-minute child or adult care?

The University offers eligible faculty and staff access to subsidized backup care through Care.com to fill gaps in care for both children and adults. Backup Care days can be used to secure temporary and dependable care in an emergency, unforeseen disruption of regular care, or a planned day when extra assistance is needed. Find more information and start your request today.


FOR THE COMMUNITY

‘Interesting Bike Rides Around Rochester’ class

Boost your biking skills with “Wheels on Wednesday,” a monthly series of free, 15-minute online classes covering various cycling topics. “Interesting Bike Rides Around Rochester” will be held via Zoom on May 14, from noon to 12:15 p.m. In celebration of Rochester Bike Week, you’ll learn about local trails and group rides to explore. Registration is required. Check out the full schedule of classes presented by the Department of Transportation and Logistics.

Curator’s tours of Composing Color at MAG

Join Jess Marten, curator of American art at the Memorial Art Gallery, as she leads mini-tours of Composing Color: Paintings by Alma Thomas, on view through May 25. Find tickets to attend on Thursday, May 22, from 6 to 6:30 p.m.


KUDOS

Recipients of the 2024–25 Rockys

Congratulations to the recipients of the annual Student Life Awards, also known as “The Rockys.” The awards recognize undergraduate students who, through service to others, investment of talent and time, and pursuit of excellence, have significantly and positively impacted the University or the surrounding community. Roughly 230 students and student organizations are nominated each year.


Have something to share? Review our submission guidelines and find the submission form here.
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