Agriculture and Life Sciences

Aug 8, 2012

First-Ever National Survey on Genetically Engineered Mosquitoes Shows Mixed Support

Researchers from North Carolina State University have conducted the first nationally representative survey in the United States to gauge public opinion on the use of genetic manipulations to drive down mosquito populations and related diseases. While public support varies, depending on how the mosquitoes are characterized, a plurality opposes the effort when potential risks are… 

Jul 17, 2012

Dr. Richard Linton Named Dean of NC State’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

Dr. Richard Linton, a nationally recognized food-safety authority who serves as professor and chair of the Department of Food Science and Technology at The Ohio State University, has been named dean of North Carolina State University’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, effective Sept. 15. Provost Warwick Arden announced the appointment today. “We’re extremely fortunate… 

May 29, 2012

Researchers Aim to Reduce Food Safety Risk at Farmer’s Markets

Food-safety researchers at North Carolina State University are unveiling a website that offers guidance to farmer’s markets on how to reduce the risk of foodborne illness. The program is the first to rely on observational study of farmer’s markets to establish best management practices for food safety. 

May 10, 2012

Model Forecasts Long-Term Impacts of Forest Land-Use Decisions

The drive to develop crops for use in biofuels is raising questions about how to use forest land. A new computer model developed at North Carolina State University offers the most detailed insight yet into predicting how these new land uses might impact the environment – and may also help us understand how the forest… 

Apr 30, 2012

Graduation Year Drives Facebook Connections for College Grads

Are you connected to college friends on Facebook? Research from North Carolina State University shows that these social networks tend to form around graduation year or university housing – rather than other interests. 

Apr 24, 2012

Compound from Wild Tomatoes is Natural, Effective Herbicide

A naturally occurring compound derived from wild tomato plants is also a fast-acting, nontoxic herbicide, according to researchers at North Carolina State University. NC State entomologist Dr. Mike Roe had previously worked with the compound – known as 2-undecanone – as a natural replacement for the chemical DEET in insect repellents. Both he and his NC State… 

Apr 13, 2012

Gould Receives UNC System O. Max Gardner Award

Dr. Fred Gould, William Neal Reynolds Distinguished Professor of Entomology at North Carolina State University, is the 2012 recipient of the O. Max Gardner Award – the most significant university-wide honor given to faculty by the University of North Carolina Board of Governors. 

Mar 28, 2012

Study Finds Circle Hooks Lower Catch Rate For Offshore Anglers

Anglers are required to use circle hooks in some fishing tournaments because they are less likely to cause lethal injuries in billfish, such as marlin. However, research from North Carolina State University shows that broadening circle hook requirements could adversely impact charter and recreational fishing, since they make it more difficult to catch non-billfish. 

Feb 21, 2012

Your Cheatin’ Bird

Married people may pledge to stay faithful through good times and bad, but birds sing a different tune — when weather is severe or uncertain, birds are more likely to stray from their mates, says a new study by researchers working at the National Evolutionary Synthesis Center, North Carolina State University and Columbia University. The… 

Jan 9, 2012

NC State Experts Can Discuss Key National Election Issues

North Carolina State University experts can provide clear insights into the pending general election and a host of key issues that will face the presidential contenders. These experts can provide perspective and advance understanding of issues including campaign strategy, the economy, the military and foreign policy. 

Dec 19, 2011

Cockroach Hookup Signal Could Benefit Endangered Woodpecker

A North Carolina State University discovery of the unique chemical composition of a cockroach signal – a “Let’s hook up” sex pheromone emitted by certain female wood cockroaches to entice potential mates – could have far-ranging benefits, including improved conservation of an endangered woodpecker. Dr. Coby Schal, Blanton J. Whitmire Professor of Entomology at NC State… 

Dec 16, 2011

From Superbugs To Supernovas: Research Highlights From 2011

From research in antibiotic use and superbugs, which could help us address a global medical challenge, to a supernova finding that solved a millennia-old stellar mystery, 2011 was an exciting year for research at North Carolina State University. As we prepare for 2012, we’re taking a look back at some of the interesting research stories… 

Dec 5, 2011

NC State Holds Forensic Science Symposium for National and State Law Enforcement

North Carolina State University will hold its fourth annual forensic science symposium –including presentations of cutting-edge crime scene investigation technology and techniques – on Tuesday, Dec. 6, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the College of Textiles. 

Nov 9, 2011

CALS Dean Johnny Wynne Announces Retirement

Dean Johnny C. Wynne of North Carolina State University’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences has announced his planned retirement, effective July 1, 2012. Wynne will retire after serving as College of Agriculture and Life Sciences dean for more than eight years, while his association with NC State spans half a century. The College of Agriculture… 

Nov 9, 2011

Food-Safety Expert Can Offer Tips For Thanksgiving

At Thanksgiving, small mistakes in the kitchen can lead to food-borne illness. Dr. Ben Chapman, food-safety specialist and assistant professor of family and consumer sciences at North Carolina State University, can offer suggestions to ensure your Thanksgiving meal is a safe one.