Preserving the past Assistant professor of historic preservation Brian Whetstone.nocred Preserving the past Brian Whetstone, assistant professor of historic preservation at the Weitzman School, explores the intersections between housing and labor equity at museums, historic sites, and preservation organizations. 2 min. read
Why are icy surfaces slippery? Despite the commonality of water and ice, says Penn physicist Robert Carpick, their physical properties are remarkably unique.(Image: mustafahacalaki via Getty Images) Why are icy surfaces slippery? Winter Storm Fern brought icy and snowy conditions to the Northeast and other parts of the country over the weekend. Penn Today asks physicist Robert Carpick about the unique properties of ice, the science of curling, and how close we are to ‘nonslip’ ice. 5 min. read
Planning ahead in an age of longevity Image: Daniel Balakov via Getty Images Planning ahead in an age of longevity Tamara J. Cadet of the School of Social Policy & Practice discusses strategies for preparing—financially and physically— for an extended lifespan. 3 min. read
How plants ‘hedge their bets’ for better reproductive outcomes nocred How plants ‘hedge their bets’ for better reproductive outcomes Penn biologists reveal how plants respond to seasonal flowering cues while protecting the stem cells at their growing tip, enabling continuous reproduction in changing environments. 3 min. read
Can aging be treated at the cellular level? Image: Wladimir Bulgar via Getty Images Can aging be treated at the cellular level? Penn researchers Shelley Berger and Esra Sahingur explain senescence, the process of cellular aging, and discuss the complexities of developing anti-aging therapies that target these cells. 4 min. read
Examining the forces shaping world heritage Examining the forces shaping world heritage Lynn Meskell looks at the politics of archaeology and world heritage to understand why we conserve certain places and who benefits from the work.
Transforming aging in place using technology Transforming aging in place using technology George Demiris uses technology to help older adults age in place for as long as possible with a high quality of life.
Iran at a crossroads Iran is functioning under an Internet communications blackout, which has strained economic and family ties, says Penn’s Firoozeh Kashani-Sabet.(Image: Vahid Salemi via AP Images) Q&A Iran at a crossroads In a Q&A, Penn historian Firoozeh Kashani-Sabet, an expert on Iran and the modern Middle East, speaks about the Iranian opposition movement, current protests, the Islamic Republic’s crackdown, and daily life in the country. 4 min. read
Chris Callison-Burch: 25 years of AI innovation Image: Courtesy of Penn Engineering Chris Callison-Burch: 25 years of AI innovation Penn Engineering faculty Chris Callison-Burch, a leading researcher in the artificial intelligence field, reflects on decades of technological innovations that have informed the present and future of AI. 2 min. read
Working in groups can help Republicans and Democrats agree on controversial content moderation online Working in groups can help Republicans and Democrats agree on controversial content moderation online A new study by Annenberg School for Communication professor Damon Centola and alum Douglas Guilbeault explores how content moderators can reach consensus on classifying controversial material online, including inflammatory, offensive, or hateful images. 2 min. read