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Agriculture and Life Sciences

Ant on a tree limb

Jul 9, 2019

Destination: Madagascar, the Living Laboratory

Through the Ants and Canopy Bootcamp, a group of students from the U.S. and Madagascar will explore biological diversity with NC State's Bonnie Blaimer and the California Academy of Sciences' Brian Fisher. 

leaf marked by a microneedle patch

Jun 10, 2019

New Microneedle Technique Speeds Plant Disease Detection

Researchers have developed a new technique that uses microneedle patches to collect DNA from plant tissues in one minute, rather than the hours needed for conventional techniques. 

champagne being poured into the Stanley Cup

May 28, 2019

Could The Stanley Cup Spread Disease?

Does eating or drinking from the Stanley Cup pose a public health risk? Let's ask an expert on foodborne illness and cross-contamination. 

camel cricket

Mar 19, 2019

Cricket Bacteria Break Down Lignin, Highlighting Ecology’s Utility in Applied R&D

Researchers have discovered that a bacterium found in camel crickets is capable of breaking down lignin, opening new research pathways for biofuels and chemical manufacturing. The study also highlights the potential inherent in using ecosystem analysis as a tool for targeting research into the identification of commercially valuable microorganisms with industrial applications. 

Josip Simunovic in his lab, surrounded by shiny, metal equipment.

Mar 14, 2019

Food Scientist Honored

Food science pioneer Josip Simunovic is recognized by the Institute of Food Technologists. 

stink bug

Feb 28, 2019

Why Do Stink Bugs Stink?

Why do stink bugs stink? How do they make that smell? Are stink bugs dangerous? 

Woman in protective gear and holding a shovel looks at fire and smoke from a controlled burn.

Feb 20, 2019

Burning Desire

NC State scientists work to restore a rare longleaf pine stand for research, education and outreach. Among their first steps: setting fire to the site. 

industrial hemp plants

Feb 14, 2019

Is Hemp The Same Thing As Marijuana?

What's the difference between marijuana and hemp? 

photo of a pressure cooker

Feb 13, 2019

Why Does Food Cook Faster In A Pressure Cooker?

How do pressure cookers work? 

tired runner crossing finish line

Jan 28, 2019

What Happens When You Run on a Full Stomach?

Don't expect to set any land speed records if you're running on a full stomach. 

Pictured in his lab, Allen Cohen holds a tray of silkworms.

Jan 16, 2019

Bee-Killing Mite Isn’t a Vampire After All

A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Science this week debunks the long-held belief that varroa mites feed on “bee blood” – AKA hemolymph. NC State researcher Allen Cohen, co-author of the paper, explains. 

Gary Cartwright holds pints of ice cream.

Jan 11, 2019

Howling Cow Ice Cream Available in Harris Teeter Stores

A State Fair and NC State campus delectable treat is now available for the first time in grocery retail locations across parts of the Triangle. 

brown spider

Jan 10, 2019

‘Is This a Brown Recluse?’ A Year of Looking at Spiders

What happens when three scientists launch a public service for people with spider questions? 

woman standing behind seedlings

Jan 9, 2019

Major Study Sheds Light on Plant Growth

How does your garden grow? It's complicated. 

Photo of freshwater mussels in a laboratory.

Jan 8, 2019

Study Will Examine Ecosystem Benefits Provided by Freshwater Mussels

The impact of freshwater mussels on N.C. water quality, and public awareness of water-quality issues, will be the focus of a new study.