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Erica K. Brockmeier
Science News Officer
Erica K. Brockmeier covers chemistry, physics & astronomy, and math in the School of Arts and Sciences, and also manages media relations for these departments. She also occasionally covers scientific research and news coming from other parts of Penn.
Safely reengaging with nightlife and supporting the creative economy
PennPraxis researchers are collaborating on the Global Nighttime Recovery Plan, which provides best practices, real-world examples, and frameworks for safe and inclusive nightlife.
Researchers discover new molecules for tracking Parkinson’s disease
The study describes an innovative approach for identifying and evaluating candidate molecules that can image and track the progression of a wide range of neurodegenerative diseases.
Did scientists detect chemical signals from Venusian microorganisms?
Four takeaways from astronomer Cullen Blake on what this potentially groundbreaking study shows and what comes next for scientists who are keen to understand these faraway chemical signals.
Research Recovery Program supports scholars impacted by the pandemic
A new funding mechanism offers grants designed to help researchers mitigate unexpected costs and provides opportunities for scholars to delve into new areas of study.
First-of-its-kind virtual summer design studio for high school students
In a unique partnership, Penn Praxis Design fellows led Fresh Air Everywhere, an intensive seven-week program providing teens with an introduction to design and architecture.
Using PennOpen Pass for the early detection of COVID-19
The daily symptom tracker is a critical step in ongoing efforts to safely resume academic, research, and clinical activities across campus.
At the intersection of the built environment, environmental health, and social justice
Junior Kai Song and sophomore Sage Basri worked with faculty mentor Franca Trubiano this summer to learn more about the wide-reaching impacts of the Philadelphia Energy Solutions refinery.
Decision-making and anxiety in the time of COVID-19
Penn experts discuss the psychology behind decision-making, how anxiety and stress impacts behavior, and share strategies for deciding how to safely reengage with society.
Bringing green, healing spaces to the streets of West Philadelphia
As part of a Summer Humanities Internship with One Art, rising junior Alice Cochrane helped design a new façade for the “urban eco arts village” and community center.
Improving the quality of life in cities
The Gordon Fellowship program, currently in its second year, provides urban studies students with an opportunity to find summer internships that connect theory with practice.