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June 3, 2025

Is the plastic in your kitchen harmful?

Rochester researchers at the forefront of efforts to understand the complex role that plastics play in human health share how plastic containers and utensils—staples in many kitchens—could be affecting you.

Also in today’s issue:

  • A new tiny, fast-measuring laser
  • Professional development sessions for undergrads
  • Technology Development Fund pre-proposal application details
IN MEMORIAM

Flags will be lowered for Edward Sommers

University flags on the Eastman Quadrangle and near the entrance of Strong Memorial Hospital’s Emergency Department will be lowered on Tuesday, June 10, for Edward Sommers, an associate professor of dentistry, who died on May 6. Sommers joined the University faculty in 1997.


ROCHESTER RESEARCH

New laser smaller than a penny can measure objects at ultrafast rates

Chip-scale laser device with penny for scale.

A new chip-scale laser can conduct extremely fast and accurate measurements by very precisely changing its color across a broad spectrum of light at very fast rates. The device has applications ranging from guiding autonomous vehicles to detecting gravitational waves.


FOR STUDENTS

Professional development sessions on applying to medical or graduate school

The Office of Undergraduate Research is hosting a weekly professional development series for Schwartz Discover Grant recipients on Wednesdays from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. New for this summer, a limited number of slots will be made available to all University undergraduate students. The next session on June 4 is in the Computer Studies Building on “Applying to Graduate School” (Room 209) or “Applying to Medical School” (Room 601). Pre-registration is required.


FOR FACULTY AND STAFF

New HSA benefit card

If you currently have a Health Savings Account (HSA) through HSA Bank, a new card will arrive in your mail in the next two weeks. The updated card features tap-to-pay technology and enhanced security, including Mastercard ID Theft Protection. Read the enclosed letter in the mailing for important information on the transition period, card activation, and usage instructions. Reach out to HSA Bank with questions.

Health Bites webinar on addressing challenging developmental behavior

The webinar focuses on three common behavior challenges—power struggles, inappropriate language, and tattling—and practicing responses to them. Register here  to join Well-U and UR Medicine EAP on Tuesday, June 10, at noon for the last Health Bites webinar of the spring.

Lifestyle changes to manage IBS

During Well-U’s coaching program for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), discuss possible lifestyle changes so you can get back to a normal living routine. Contact your coach to schedule your first appointment.


FOR THE COMMUNITY

Advanced Certificate in Addictions Counseling program info session

The Advanced Certificate in Addictions Counseling program, a collaboration of the Warner Graduate School of Education and Human Development, the School of Medicine and Dentistry, and Strong Recovery, is designed to meet the educational needs of master prepared professionals who are interested in obtaining the Credentialed Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counseling credential. Register here to learn more at a virtual information session on Thursday, June 26, at noon.

Technology Development Fund pre-proposal applications due June 30

Pre-proposal applications are being accepted until June 30 for the Technology Development Fund, which supports University researchers who wish to further the process of translating their research into commercial opportunities. Find details and eligibility requirements here.


GRAB A BITE

Tasty Tuesday line-up

Tasty Tuesday is in full swing this summer on the University’s Wilson Quadrangle from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Today’s scheduled trucks are Chef’s Catering, Marty’s Meats, Wraps on Wheels, and Frios. Find the full schedule here.


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