CIDD Seminar Series, ft. Nisha Duggal
Our fall seminar series is nearly full, with an impressive lineup of expert presenters ready to share their knowledge and insights. Don't miss these outstanding opportunities to learn, connect, and engage.
Featured speaker: Nisha Duggal of Virginia Tech,
CIDD Coffee begins at 10:30 am in MSC W-202; CIDD Seminars begin at 11:00 am in MSC W-203.
Location Details (Venue Name/Virtual Platform): Millennium Science Complex. Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES, UP - Center - CIDD.
Thursday, September 3, 2026, 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM.
Neuroscience Seminar Series, featuring Annie Delfina, Mira Eze, and Shannon Jordan
Talk Title to be Announced
Neuroscience Seminar Series,
September 3, 2026 | 11:00 am - 12:00 pm,
008 Mueller Building, University Park,
Featuring: Annie Delfina, Mira Eze, and Shannon Jordan, Penn State University,
Abstract: ,
About the Speaker:
Seminar Contact: Sonia Cavigelli,
.
Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES.
Thursday, September 3, 2026, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM.
COEIB Virtual Fermentation Workshop
COEIB Virtual Fermentation Workshop
Center of Excellence in Industrial Biotechnology, Zoom, Price: $699/person (covers all four sessions), Dates: - 8/13/26 | Thursday: 1:00pm – 5:00pm, - 8/20/26 | Thursday: 1:00pm – 5:00pm, - 8/27/26 | Thursday: 1:00pm – 5:00pm, - 9/03/26 | Thursday: 1:00pm – 5:00pm,
Featuring:
Ali Demirci, Penn State
Mekala Venkatachalam, Penn State
Hosted by the Center of Excellence in Industrial Biotechnology (COEIB), the Virtual Fermentation workshop is a 4-day workshop, held over four Thursdays, focusing on a range of microbial fermentation processes. In this course, we will cover topics such as bioprocessing, recombinant technologies, kinetics, microbial nutrition, and BioPat trace technology. Participants will have the opportunity to engage in case study experiments and data analysis, guided by our expert instructors. The workshop will be led by one of Penn State’s esteemed Agricultural and Biological Engineering professors, Ali Demirci; featuring… .
Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES.
Thursday, September 3, 2026, 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM.
CRRB Monthly Networking Meeting
Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES.
Thursday, September 3, 2026, 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM.
UP: Millennium Science Complex W201.
Fall 2026 Night at the Museum
Fall 2026 Night at the Museum
The Penn State University Museums Consortium is hosting a night at the museums on September 3rd. Several museums (listed below) will be open late, and there will be trolley service to ferry people around. Trolley Stop Signs, map attached, underwritten by Penn State Outreach, will loop around campus from 4 pm to 8 pm, in addition to Campus Shuttle and CATAbus Blue Loop and White Loop.
Penn State Athletics
o Penn State All-Sports Museum, The All-Sports Museum exhibits the achievements of the men and women who built the proud traditions of 35 different varsity athletics programs across 150 years of Penn State history. Our current special exhibit, The Way I Saw It, presents 100 unique and powerful photos of Penn State athletes, coaches, venues, and fans shot between 1977 and 2005 by alumnus Pat Little, who spent over three decades as a professional photojournalist.
College of Agricultural Sciences
o Armsby Respiratory Calorimeter, Open to the public especially for Night…
Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES.
Thursday, September 3, 2026, 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM.
OHMC Seminar Series ft. Justin Silverman
Beyond Compositionality: Scale-Reliant Inference and ALDEx3 for Microbiome Data,
Featuring:
Justin Silverman, Penn State University,
Contact:
Mallorie Smith, mqs5394@psu.edu.
Location Details (Venue Name/Virtual Platform): 106 Animal, Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences Building. Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES, UP - Center - OHMC.
Friday, September 4, 2026, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM.
25Live Training for Huck Events
25Live Calendar Training, MSC W201,
Huck Institutes has transitioned to using 25Live, Penn State's event system, to streamline calendaring across units.
Join this interactive session to learn how to enter events, request which calendars it goes on, and and how the new system is set up.
Join in person or via Zoom.
Register for Zoom on Sept 1 at 9:00 am: https://psu.zoom.us/meeting/register/EK4cv5EETc2TZZSOz8aPlg
Register for Zoom Sept 9 at 3:30 pm: https://psu.zoom.us/meeting/register/c-G4Ykp-RiKj7WdaqBL3sg.
Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES.
Wednesday, September 9, 2026, 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM.
UP: Millennium Science Complex W201.
Speaker: Jeff Riffel, University of Washington
When the signal changes: Lepidopteran olfaction and plant-pollinator interactions in a changing world
Speaker: Jeff Riffel, University of Washington
September 10, 2026
, 9:00 am - 10:00 am
, 106 Animal, Veterinary, and Biomedical Sciences Building
,
About the Speaker:
Jeff Riffell is an Endowed Professor in the Biology Department and Graduate Program of Neuroscience at the University of Washington, Seattle (UW). He received his Ph.D. at UCLA and was a Research Associate in the Department of Neuroscience at the University of Arizona in John Hildebrand's laboratory. While at UW, he has received several professional honors, including an Endowment for Excellence in Biology, a National Geographic Explorer award, an Innovation Award from the University of Washington, a Kavli Frontiers of Science Fellow, an International Society for Neuroethology Investigator Award, and a CoMotion Innovation Fund Award. Over the last 15 years, he has published more than 85 research articles on quantitative behavior,…
Location Details (Venue Name/Virtual Platform): 106 Animal, Veterinary, and Biomedical Sciences Building. Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES.
Thursday, September 10, 2026, 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM.
CIDD Seminar Series, ft. Ana Bento
Our fall seminar series is nearly full, with an impressive lineup of expert presenters ready to share their knowledge and insights. Don't miss these outstanding opportunities to learn, connect, and engage.
Featured speaker: Ana Bento of Cornell University,
CIDD Coffee begins at 10:30 am in MSC W-202; CIDD Seminars begin at 11:00 am in MSC W-203.
Location Details (Venue Name/Virtual Platform): Millennium Science Complex. Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES, UP - Center - CIDD.
Thursday, September 10, 2026, 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM.
Neuroscience Seminar Series, featuring Dorthea Tse, Allison Xiao, and Liangzhu (Zack) Zhang
Talk Title to be Announced
Neuroscience Seminar Series,
September 10, 2026 | 11:00 am - 12:00 pm,
008 Mueller Building, University Park,
Featuring: Dorthea Tse, Allison Xiao, and Liangzhu (Zack) Zhang, Penn State University,
Abstract: ,
About the Speaker:
Seminar Contact: Sonia Cavigelli,
.
Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES.
Thursday, September 10, 2026, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM.
Genomics Core Facility Open House
Genomics Core Facility Open House: Discover the future of Genomics Research at Penn State.
The open house includes:
Lab Tours: See our high-tech sequencing equipment in person.
, Expert Guidance: Chat with our facility staff to get answers to all your genomics and sequencing questions.
, SharePoint Launch: Learn how our new website makes working with the core easier.
, Upcoming Programs: Hear about our new services and future events.
,
Open to the entire PSU research community (faculty, staff, & students).
Contact
Cheryl Keller, cak142@psu.edu,
.
Location Details (Venue Name/Virtual Platform): 4th Floor, Chandlee Lab. Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES.
Thursday, September 10, 2026, 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM.
From Households to Habitats: Interdisciplinary Approaches to Human-Environment Interaction
A symposium for people interested in interdisciplinary conversation and scholarship that highlights four projects-in-process funded by the CSSI and features four scholars working at the intersection of communication, science, and society.
Friday, September 11, 2026 9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. breakfast at 8:45 a.m. The Boardroom at the Nittany Lion Inn, University Park, PA,
Featured Scholars:
Rajiv Rimal, Johns Hopkins University; Jeff Niederdeppe, Cornell University; Jenell Johnson, University of Wisconsin; and Andrew High, Penn State,
Topics:
Community awareness of health risks associated with the Aedes japonicus mosquito in Pennsylvania through laboratory diagnostics and educational field ecology approaches with James Mutunga, Biology, Penn State-Harrisburg; Joshua Trey Barnett, Communication Arts and Sciences; Coren Jagnow, Center for Survey Research; Drew Lysaker, Penn State Extension,
Family communication, youth digital media engagement, and physical health with Weimiao Zhou, Communication Arts…
Location Details (Venue Name/Virtual Platform): Nittany Lion Inn, Board Room. Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES.
Friday, September 11, 2026, 8:45 AM – 5:00 PM.
OHMC Seminar Series ft. Daniel Sprockett
Partners Through Time: Gut Microbiome Co-diversification as a Framework for One Health Research,
Featuring:
Daniel Sprockett, Wake Forest University,
Contact:
Mallorie Smith, mqs5394@psu.edu.
Location Details (Venue Name/Virtual Platform): 106 Animal, Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences Building. Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES, UP - Center - OHMC.
Friday, September 11, 2026, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM.
The Great Insect Fair
The Great Insect Fair is our annual extravaganza celebrating insects with lots of activities, games, crafts, tasty treats, and fun for everyone!
FREE ADMISSION
Saturday, September 12, 2026, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, Snider Agricultural Arena, E. Park Ave. State College, PA,
Sponsored by the Department of Entomology, the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, and the Insect Biodiversity Center.
Location Details (Venue Name/Virtual Platform): Snider Agricultural Arena. Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES, UP - College - Agricultural Sciences.
Saturday, September 12, 2026, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM.
Following the process of domestication through space and time with ancient DNA
Featuring:
Benjamin Blackman, University of California, Berkeley
Abstract: Where and how many times crop plants were domesticated, how quickly and severely genetic diversity is lost during domestication, and how domestication syndromes are assembled through polygenic evolutionary change are questions of active research and frequent debate. My talk will address these questions by applying both modern and archaeological DNA genomics approaches in the common sunflower, Helianthus annuus. To study how Native American farmers transformed the common sunflower from a highly branched wild plant with small disks and seeds into a staple crop that sports a single large head with large seeds on an unbranched stalk, we have assembled a time series of archaeological and ethnographic samples spanning close to 4000 years of history. In my talk, I will discuss how our findings speak to timing and strength of genetic bottlenecks under cultivation, uncover dynamic impacts of crop-wild gene flow over time,… .
Location Details (Venue Name/Virtual Platform): 108 Wartik Laboratory. Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES, UP - Institute - Plant.
Monday, September 14, 2026, 12:15 PM – 1:15 PM.
Plant Biology Seminar - Benjamin Blackman
Following the process of domestication through space and time with ancient DNA
Plant Biology Seminar Series,
September 14, 2026 @ 12:15 pm to 01:15 pm
108 Wartik Laboratory, University Park
Featuring:
Benjamin Blackman, University of California, Berkeley,
Abstract: Where and how many times crop plants were domesticated, how quickly and severely genetic diversity is lost during domestication, and how domestication syndromes are assembled through polygenic evolutionary change are questions of active research and frequent debate. My talk will address these questions by applying both modern and archaeological DNA genomics approaches in the common sunflower, Helianthus annuus. To study how Native American farmers transformed the common sunflower from a highly branched wild plant with small disks and seeds into a staple crop that sports a single large head with large seeds on an unbranched stalk, we have assembled a time series of archaeological and ethnographic samples spanning close… .
Location Details (Venue Name/Virtual Platform): 108 Wartik Laboratory. Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES.
Monday, September 14, 2026, 12:15 PM – 1:15 PM.
Ecology Seminar Series, featuring Kevin Potter
Harmful non-native plants in U.S. forests: Drivers, trends, and invasion debt
Ecology Seminar Series,
September 14, 2026 | 1:25 - 2:15 pm,
208 Business Building, University Park,
Featuring: Kevin Potter, US Department of Agriculture,
Abstract: Non-native invasive plants cause significant ecological impacts to forests while requiring costly management interventions. A decade of research using Nationwide Forest Inventory data from across the United States has demonstrated that the nation’s forests are highly invaded by problematic non-native plants and that they are becoming increasingly invaded over time. We have shown that about 38 percent of forests in the conterminous 48 states (about 250 million acres) are invaded, with invasion associated with forest fragmentation, developed and agricultural land use, and the Wildland Urban Interface. Forests under conservation management are less invaded than those that are not. We have also found strong evidence of invasion debt, the temporal lag of… .
Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES.
Monday, September 14, 2026, 1:25 PM – 2:15 PM.
Faculty Workshop - American Galleries Reinstallation Project
Help shape the Palmer's reinstallation plans for the American Galleries to better support your teaching! Join museum curators and educators to review draft gallery themes, proposed object checklists, and interpretive strategies for the museum's reinstallation of the American Galleries, slated to open Fall 2027. Faculty may choose to attend one of the three sessions listed below (agenda is the same for all sessions). Light refreshments will be provided.
Space is limited, and registration is required. Participants will receive a confirmation email after registration closes Friday, September 4. For additional information or questions about the workshop, contact Keri Mongelluzzo, educator for academic engagement and access, at klm556@psu.edu.
.
Organization: UP - Museum - PALMER. Location Details (Venue Name/Virtual Platform): Palmer Museum of Art. AA - Admission Type: Free, registration required. AA - Admission Ticket or Registration Link: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=RY30fNs9iUOpwcEVUm61Lqe.
Tuesday, September 15, 2026, 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM.
UP: Palmer Museum of Art 115 Event Space.
Huck Distinguished Lecture - Lars Chittka
The Mind of a Bee
Distinguished Lectures in Life Science,
September 15, 2026 from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm
, Refreshments at 3:30 pm
, 102 Animal, Veterinary, and Biomedical Sciences Building, University Park
, Pre-lecture refreshments from 3:30 - 4:00 pm
,
Featuring:
Lars Chittka, Queen Mary University of London
,
Abstract: Most of us are aware of the hive mind—the power of bees as an amazing collective. But do we know how uniquely intelligent bees are as individuals? I argue that they have remarkable navigational abilities, can recognize not just flowers but also human faces, exhibit basic emotions, count, use simple tools, solve problems, and learn by observing others. They may even possess consciousness. I illustrate how bee brains are unparalleled in the animal kingdom in terms of how much computing power is packed into their tiny nervous systems. I examine the psychological differences between bees and the ethical dilemmas that arise in conservation and laboratory… .
Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES.
Tuesday, September 15, 2026, 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM.
Plant Institute: QIAGEN: Unlocking Plant Biology
Unlocking Plant Biology: An overview of QIAGEN Solutions for Extraction, Analysis, and Discovery
You're invited to join us for an upcoming QIAGEN Lunch & Learn Technical Talk, hosted by the Plant Institute. Whether you're interested in DNA/RNA extraction, genomics, transcriptomics, or other molecular biology workflows, this is a great opportunity to learn about QIAGEN's latest technologies and connect with representatives from their team.
September 16, 2026
, 12:00 pm
, 3rd Floor MSC Commons
,
RSVP for lunch.
Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES.
Wednesday, September 16, 2026, 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM.
CIDD Seminar Series, ft. Stanca Ciupe
Our fall seminar series is nearly full, with an impressive lineup of expert presenters ready to share their knowledge and insights. Don't miss these outstanding opportunities to learn, connect, and engage.
Featured speaker: Stanca Ciupe of Virginia Tech,
CIDD Coffee begins at 10:30 am in MSC W-202; CIDD Seminars begin at 11:00 am in MSC W-203.
Location Details (Venue Name/Virtual Platform): Millennium Science Complex. Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES, UP - Center - CIDD.
Thursday, September 17, 2026, 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM.
Neuroscience Seminar Series, featuring Erika Holzbaur
Supplying the synapse
Neuroscience Seminar Series,
September 17, 2026 | 11:00 am - 12:00 pm,
008 Mueller Building, University Park,
Featuring: Erika Holzbaur, University of Pennsylvania,
Abstract: The human nervous system is composed of billions of neurons connected through trillions of synapses. Despite the importance of this synaptic network, cellular mechanisms dictating synapse formation and maintenance remain unclear. Long-distance axonal trafficking by the microtubule motor KIF1A is crucial for synaptogenesis and downstream synapse maintenance. This motor responds to spatially localized cytoskeletal cues to deliver essential components to build and maintain presynaptic sites along the axon. Specifically, we have found that sites of locally enriched microtubule dynamics guide KIF1A-mediated presynaptic delivery. Highly processive KIF1A motors exhibit enhanced detachment frequencies when encountering dynamic microtubule plus ends; this enhanced detachment influences presynaptic cargo… .
Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES.
Thursday, September 17, 2026, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM.
ThermoFisher qPCR Lunch and Learn
Organization: UP - Institute - GSI.
Thursday, September 17, 2026, 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM.
UP: Millennium Science Complex W203.
Genesis BioTech Open Office Hours
BioTech Faculty and Staff Zoom Office Hours:
September 2; 9:00 am -10:00 am
, September 17; 2:00 pm -3:00 pm
, September 29; 11:00 am -12:00 pm
,
By Appointment: E-mail Camelia or Brittany.
Location Details (Venue Name/Virtual Platform): Zoom. Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES.
Thursday, September 17, 2026, 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM.
Faculty Workshop - American Galleries Reinstallation Project
Help shape the Palmer's reinstallation plans for the American Galleries to better support your teaching! Join museum curators and educators to review draft gallery themes, proposed object checklists, and interpretive strategies for the museum's reinstallation of the American Galleries, slated to open Fall 2027. Faculty may choose to attend one of the three sessions listed below (agenda is the same for all sessions). Light refreshments will be provided.
Space is limited, and registration is required. Participants will receive a confirmation email after registration closes Friday, September 4. For additional information or questions about the workshop, contact Keri Mongelluzzo, educator for academic engagement and access, at klm556@psu.edu.
.
Organization: UP - Museum - PALMER. Location Details (Venue Name/Virtual Platform): Palmer Museum of Art. AA - Admission Type: Free, registration required. AA - Admission Ticket or Registration Link: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=RY30fNs9iUOpwcEVUm61Lqe.
Friday, September 18, 2026, 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM.
UP: Palmer Museum of Art 115 Event Space.
OHMC Seminar Series ft. Daniela Betancurt and Sangshan Tian
Interdisciplinary Innovation Fellows Talk,
Featuring:
Daniela Betancurt, Penn State University,
Sangshan Tian, Penn State University,
Contact:
Mallorie Smith, mqs5394@psu.edu.
Location Details (Venue Name/Virtual Platform): 106 Animal, Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences Building. Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES, UP - Center - OHMC.
Friday, September 18, 2026, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM.
Faculty Workshop - American Galleries Reinstallation Project
Help shape the Palmer's reinstallation plans for the American Galleries to better support your teaching! Join museum curators and educators to review draft gallery themes, proposed object checklists, and interpretive strategies for the museum's reinstallation of the American Galleries, slated to open Fall 2027. Faculty may choose to attend one of the three sessions listed below (agenda is the same for all sessions). Light refreshments will be provided.
Space is limited, and registration is required. Participants will receive a confirmation email after registration closes Friday, September 4. For additional information or questions about the workshop, contact Keri Mongelluzzo, educator for academic engagement and access, at klm556@psu.edu.
.
Organization: UP - Museum - PALMER. Location Details (Venue Name/Virtual Platform): Palmer Museum of Art. AA - Admission Type: Free, registration required. AA - Admission Ticket or Registration Link: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=RY30fNs9iUOpwcEVUm61Lqe.
Friday, September 18, 2026, 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM.
UP: Palmer Museum of Art 115 Event Space.
Plant Biology Seminar, featuring Avalon Miller
Investigating differential responses of American elm genotypes to Dutch elm disease infection
Plant Biology Seminar Series,
September 21, 2026 | 108 Wartik Laboratory,
Featuring: Avalon Miller, Penn State University,
Abstract: Restoring the American elm (Ulmus americana) requires overcoming the high cost and slow timeline of traditional Dutch elm disease (DED) screening, which relies on destructive sampling and late-stage symptom observation. The work presented in this talk will discuss how early, pre-symptomatic physiological, metabolic, and molecular responses across tolerant and susceptible genotypes could potentially be used as a DED-tolerance phenotyping tool. Triggered by stem inoculation with Ophiostoma novo-ulmi, different signals propagate systemically to distal leaves, leaving a detectable chemical signature. Using short-wave infrared (SWIR) reflectance spectroscopy combined with untargeted UPLC-MS/MS metabolomics, we tracked these systemic leaf responses across tolerant and susceptible…
Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES.
Monday, September 21, 2026, 12:15 PM – 1:15 PM.
Hydra Bio Workshop
Join the Huck Cryo-EM Facility and Thermo Fisher Scientific for a three-day workshop introducing cutting-edge workflows in cryogenic plasma FIB-SEM imaging and 3D image analysis. Workshop Highlights ?? Introduction to Hydra Bio pFIB-SEM technology ?? Cryo Slice & View workflows for volume electron microscopy ?? Cryo-FIB lamella preparation for cryoET applications ?? Best practices for biological sample preparation ?? Amira software tutorials for 3D visualization and AI-assisted segmentation ?? Live instrument demonstrations and interactive discussion sessions Schedule: TBA, , Featured Instructors: Vivek Subramanian, PhD Applications Scientist, Thermo Fisher Scientific Cryo and room-temperature plasma FIB workflows Daniel Buss Product Applications Specialist, Thermo Fisher Scientific Amira 3D Visualization & Image Analysis
Click here to register to attend.
Location Details (Venue Name/Virtual Platform): Millennium Science Complex. Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES.
Tuesday, September 22, 2026, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Introductory Methods in Mammalian Cell Culture Workshop
The Introductory Mammalian Cell Culture workshop is a 3-day, hands-on workshop that provides training in introductory methods in mammalian cell culture. Throughout the course of the workshop, you will learn all the basics needed to grow a cell, such as: proper aseptic techniques and PPE protocols, general cell cycle related to cell culture and cell growth, growth curve and cell division, splitting cells, feeding cells, essential cell culture techniques for suspension and adherent cells, and cryopreservation and recovery. This Fall 2026 Semester, the workshop will be offered twice; you can choose to attend either session 1 or session 2. The event is open to all Penn State students, faculty, and staff – no prior experience is needed, so all levels of expertise are welcome. You will be required to complete all assigned CITI/LRN training courses to participate in the workshop. Visit our website for all the details and to register! Price: $50/person, Dates: Session 1, 9/22/26: Tuesday | 9:00am -… .
Location Details (Venue Name/Virtual Platform): Sartorius Cell Culture Facility. Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES, UP - Center - COEIB.
Tuesday, September 22, 2026, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
DAWG Workshop
Data Analysis Working Group (DAWG) is a One Health Microbiome Center affiliated group that comes together to analyze high-throughput sequencing data.
While the main goal is to provide training to the One Health Microbiome Center members on how to process and analyze sequencing datasets, we aim to:
Utilize the skills of our Center members to help researchers process and analyze sequencing data, culminating in results for a grant application or publication
, Provide an opportunity for students/post-docs to further develop skills as group leaders of DAWG by creating and delivering their own workshop
, Help build collaborations between members of the One Health Microbiome Center and other Penn State researchers who are interested in microbiome research.
Organization: UP - Center - OHMC.
Tuesday, September 22, 2026, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM.
UP: Animal, Veterinary, and Biomedical Sciences 106.
Hydra Bio Workshop
Join the Huck Cryo-EM Facility and Thermo Fisher Scientific for a three-day workshop introducing cutting-edge workflows in cryogenic plasma FIB-SEM imaging and 3D image analysis. Workshop Highlights ?? Introduction to Hydra Bio pFIB-SEM technology ?? Cryo Slice & View workflows for volume electron microscopy ?? Cryo-FIB lamella preparation for cryoET applications ?? Best practices for biological sample preparation ?? Amira software tutorials for 3D visualization and AI-assisted segmentation ?? Live instrument demonstrations and interactive discussion sessions Schedule: TBA, , Featured Instructors: Vivek Subramanian, PhD Applications Scientist, Thermo Fisher Scientific Cryo and room-temperature plasma FIB workflows Daniel Buss Product Applications Specialist, Thermo Fisher Scientific Amira 3D Visualization & Image Analysis
Click here to register to attend.
Location Details (Venue Name/Virtual Platform): Millennium Science Complex. Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES.
Wednesday, September 23, 2026, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Introductory Methods in Mammalian Cell Culture Workshop
The Introductory Mammalian Cell Culture workshop is a 3-day, hands-on workshop that provides training in introductory methods in mammalian cell culture. Throughout the course of the workshop, you will learn all the basics needed to grow a cell, such as: proper aseptic techniques and PPE protocols, general cell cycle related to cell culture and cell growth, growth curve and cell division, splitting cells, feeding cells, essential cell culture techniques for suspension and adherent cells, and cryopreservation and recovery. This Fall 2026 Semester, the workshop will be offered twice; you can choose to attend either session 1 or session 2. The event is open to all Penn State students, faculty, and staff – no prior experience is needed, so all levels of expertise are welcome. You will be required to complete all assigned CITI/LRN training courses to participate in the workshop. Visit our website for all the details and to register! Price: $50/person, Dates: Session 1, 9/22/26: Tuesday | 9:00am -… .
Location Details (Venue Name/Virtual Platform): Sartorius Cell Culture Facility. Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES, UP - Center - COEIB.
Wednesday, September 23, 2026, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Hydra Bio Workshop
Join the Huck Cryo-EM Facility and Thermo Fisher Scientific for a three-day workshop introducing cutting-edge workflows in cryogenic plasma FIB-SEM imaging and 3D image analysis. Workshop Highlights ?? Introduction to Hydra Bio pFIB-SEM technology ?? Cryo Slice & View workflows for volume electron microscopy ?? Cryo-FIB lamella preparation for cryoET applications ?? Best practices for biological sample preparation ?? Amira software tutorials for 3D visualization and AI-assisted segmentation ?? Live instrument demonstrations and interactive discussion sessions Schedule: TBA, , Featured Instructors: Vivek Subramanian, PhD Applications Scientist, Thermo Fisher Scientific Cryo and room-temperature plasma FIB workflows Daniel Buss Product Applications Specialist, Thermo Fisher Scientific Amira 3D Visualization & Image Analysis
Click here to register to attend.
Location Details (Venue Name/Virtual Platform): Millennium Science Complex. Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES.
Thursday, September 24, 2026, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
CIDD Seminar Series, ft. Vicki Jeffers
Our fall seminar series is nearly full, with an impressive lineup of expert presenters ready to share their knowledge and insights. Don't miss these outstanding opportunities to learn, connect, and engage.
Featured speaker: Vicki Jeffers of the University of New Hampshire,
CIDD Coffee begins at 10:30 am in MSC W-202; CIDD Seminars begin at 11:00 am in MSC W-203.
Location Details (Venue Name/Virtual Platform): Millennium Science Complex. Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES, UP - Center - CIDD.
Thursday, September 24, 2026, 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM.
OHMC Seminar Series ft. Jacques Ravel
The Vaginal Microbiome: A Journey from Discovery to Therapeutics,
Featuring:
Jacques Ravel, Microbiome Medal Recipient, University of Maryland School of Medicine,
Contact:
Mallorie Smith, mqs5394@psu.edu.
Location Details (Venue Name/Virtual Platform): 106 Animal, Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences Building. Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES, UP - Center - OHMC.
Friday, September 25, 2026, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM.
Plant Biology Seminar - Yuxin Luo
Genetic Adaptation of Natural Arabidopsis Populations in Response to Local Environments, Plant Biology Seminar Series
Plant Biology Seminar Series,
September 28, 2026 @ 12:15 pm to 01:15 pm
108 Wartik Laboratory, University Park
Featuring:
Yuxin Luo, Penn State University,
Abstract: Determining the genetic basis of local adaptation and whether adaptive signals are consistent across spatial scales remains a central problem in evolutionary genomics. Genotype-environment association (GEA) studies are widely used to identify candidate loci under local adaptation but are rarely followed by experimental validation. We tested candidate loci from three GEA studies on drought adaptation in natural Arabidopsis populations using t-DNA knockout lines in laboratory common garden experiments, and found that knockouts of top candidates, wrky38 and lsd1, showed fitness advantages under drought and natural allelic variation consistent with local adaptation along moisture gradients, supporting the… .
Location Details (Venue Name/Virtual Platform): 108 Wartik Laboratory. Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES.
Monday, September 28, 2026, 12:15 PM – 1:15 PM.
Genesis BioTech Open Office Hours
BioTech Faculty and Staff Zoom Office Hours:
September 2; 9:00 am -10:00 am
, September 17; 2:00 pm -3:00 pm
, September 29; 11:00 am -12:00 pm
,
By Appointment: E-mail Camelia or Brittany.
Location Details (Venue Name/Virtual Platform): Zoom. Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES.
Tuesday, September 29, 2026, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM.
Bioinformatics Method Developers Community Day
Bioinformatics Method Developers Community Day
September 30, 2026
, 9:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
, 501 Wartik Laboratory
,
The Bioinformatics Method Developers Community Day brings together Penn State students, faculty, and staff who are involved in or interested in bioinformatics methods development. The event provides a dedicated forum to share new computational, statistical, and algorithmic advances while fostering collaboration across departments and research areas.
This community-focused gathering highlights ongoing work in methodological research and encourages open discussion between developers and users of bioinformatics tools.
Learn more and register by visiting the Bioinformatics Method Developers Community Day website.
Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES.
Wednesday, September 30, 2026, 9:30 AM – 4:30 PM.
CIDD Seminar Series, ft. David Lampe
Our fall seminar series is nearly full, with an impressive lineup of expert presenters ready to share their knowledge and insights. Don't miss these outstanding opportunities to learn, connect, and engage.
Featured speaker: David Lampe of Duquesne University,
CIDD Coffee begins at 10:30 am in MSC W-202; CIDD Seminars begin at 11:00 am in MSC W-203.
Location Details (Venue Name/Virtual Platform): Millennium Science Complex. Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES, UP - Center - CIDD.
Thursday, October 1, 2026, 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM.
Neuroscience Seminar Series, featuring Neeraji Gandhi
Behavioral features and neural correlates of target motion and interceptive saccades
Neuroscience Seminar Series,
October 1, 2026 | 11:00 am - 12:00 pm,
008 Mueller Building, University Park,
Featuring: Neeraji Gandhi, University of Pittsburgh,
Abstract: Interception of a moving object presents a significant challenge for the nervous system. Its continuous motion produces a lagged representation of its spatial location in the brain because retinal signals relayed to motor neurons traverse through diverse pathways with varying integration times, conduction speeds, and synaptic delays. The brain therefore must rely on its ability to estimate the object’s instantaneous location. Saccades are an effective motor system to study interception. I will present the results of two studies. (1) In humans producing interceptive saccades to a target moving along the perimeter of a circle, saccade endpoint distribution, saccade error, latency, and pursuit gain vary systematically with target speed,… .
Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES.
Thursday, October 1, 2026, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM.
CRRB Monthly Networking Meeting
Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES.
Thursday, October 1, 2026, 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM.
UP: Millennium Science Complex W201.
OHMC Seminar Series ft. Jeremiah Faith
Live Microbial Therapeutics for Infectious and Inflammatory Disease,
Featuring:
Jeremiah Faith, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai,
Contact:
Mallorie Smith, mqs5394@psu.edu.
Location Details (Venue Name/Virtual Platform): 106 Animal, Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences Building. Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES, UP - Center - OHMC.
Friday, October 2, 2026, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM.
Plant Biology Seminar - John Lovell
Detecting and deploying adaptive variation in complex plant pan-genomes
Plant Biology Seminar Series,
Co-sponsored by the Schatz Center for Tree Molecular Genetics,
October 5, 2026 @ 12:15 pm to 01:15 pm
108 Wartik Laboratory, University Park
Featuring:
John Lovell, HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology,
Abstract: Multiple reference genomes aggregated into single queryable resources (i.e. 'pangenomes') are rapidly becoming powerful foundations for population, evolutionary and quantitative genetics. Looking forward, it is clear that there are tremendous opportunities, but also methodological challenges, to leverage the diversity represented in pangenome resources, especially with complex variants that are typically invisible to most bioinformatic tools. Here, I discuss our efforts to build pengenome-anchored methods to test evolutionary and trait discovery hypotheses, then describe results at several challenging loci across the diversity of flowering plants, including… .
Location Details (Venue Name/Virtual Platform): 108 Wartik Laboratory. Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES.
Monday, October 5, 2026, 12:15 PM – 1:15 PM.
Illumina: Lunch and Learn
Organization: UP - Institute - GSI.
Tuesday, October 6, 2026, 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM.
UP: Millennium Science Complex W203.
Monthly Cryo-EM User Group Meeting
Monthly Cryo-EM User Group Meeting,
W203, Millennium Science Complex.
Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES.
Wednesday, October 7, 2026, 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM.
CIDD Seminar Series, ft. Lyric Bartholomay
Our fall seminar series is nearly full, with an impressive lineup of expert presenters ready to share their knowledge and insights. Don't miss these outstanding opportunities to learn, connect, and engage.
Featured speaker: Lyric Bartholomay of the University of Wisconsin-Madison,
CIDD Coffee begins at 10:30 am in MSC W-202; CIDD Seminars begin at 11:00 am in MSC W-203.
Location Details (Venue Name/Virtual Platform): Millennium Science Complex. Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES, UP - Center - CIDD.
Thursday, October 8, 2026, 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM.
Neuroscience Seminar Series, featuring William Nobis
Title to be Announced
Neuroscience Seminar Series,
October 8, 2026 | 11:00 am - 12:00 pm,
008 Mueller Building, University Park,
Featuring: William Nobis, Vanderbilt University Medical Center,
Abstract: ,
About the Speaker: ,
Seminar Contact: Nikki Crowley,
.
Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES.
Thursday, October 8, 2026, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM.
OHMC Seminar Series ft. Josh Kellogg
Cool Greens: Botanical Natural Products to Improve Human Health,
Featuring:
Josh Kellogg, Penn State University,
Contact:
Mallorie Smith, mqs5394@psu.edu.
Location Details (Venue Name/Virtual Platform): 106 Animal, Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences Building. Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES, UP - Center - OHMC.
Friday, October 9, 2026, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM.
Plant Biology Seminar - Rishi Ravichandran
Dual Biofortification of Iron and Zinc in Microgreens using Agronomic Strategies
Plant Biology Seminar Series,
October 12, 2026 @ 12:15 pm to 01:15 pm
108 Wartik Laboratory, University Park
Featuring:
Rishi Ravichandran, Penn State University,
Abstract: Iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn) are essential micronutrients required for sustaining healthy growth and development in plants and humans alike. However, Fe and Zn deficiencies are among the most prevalent micronutrient deficiencies worldwide and pose a significant threat to human health. Food-based interventions can greatly help in improving the dietary intake of these minerals. Agronomic biofortification is a rapid, straightforward, and effective strategy that can be used to produce plant-based foods enriched with both Fe and Zn, using approaches like fertigation or foliar fertilization. Microgreens are nutrient-dense leafy vegetables that are well-suited for Fe and Zn biofortification as they inherently contain low levels of… .
Location Details (Venue Name/Virtual Platform): 108 Wartik Laboratory. Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES.
Monday, October 12, 2026, 12:15 PM – 1:15 PM.
10x Genomics Lunch and Learn
Organization: UP - Institute - GSI.
Tuesday, October 13, 2026, 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM.
UP: Millennium Science Complex W203.
Institute for Computational and Data Sciences Symposium
The Institute for Computational and Data Sciences (ICDS) invites you to register for this year’s ICDS Symposium on Wednesday, Oct. 14, from 8:45 a.m. to 5:20 p.m. in Alumni Hall, HUB-Robeson Center, Penn State University Park.
Registration is required. Register here: ICDS Symposium Registration – Fill out form. Registration deadline is Sunday, Oct. 4, by 11:59 p.m. EST.
This year’s theme is “Advancing Interdisciplinary Research Collaborations with AI,” and is designed to bring together early-career and experienced researchers interested in catalyzing their work with the power of AI and collaboration.
The ICDS Symposium is an annual event that serves as a platform for building new connections, showcasing cutting-edge research, and fostering a welcoming environment for discussion on the ethical, societal, and scientific innovations and implications of data-driven technologies.
The Symposium will feature:
Remarks from Penn State leadership
,
Keynote Address
,
Panels
,
Networking and…
Location Details (Venue Name/Virtual Platform): Alumni Hall, HUB-Robeson Center, Penn State University Park. Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES.
Wednesday, October 14, 2026, 8:45 AM – 5:20 PM.
ICDS/Huck AI Symposium
ICDS/Huck AI Symposium
Thursday, October 15
, 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
, Alumni Hall, HUB-Robeson Center
,
Please join the Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences and the Institute for Computational and Data Sciences for this exciting symposium on artificial intelligence.
Featured Speakers:
Ed O'Brien, Penn State, AI for Molecular and Cellular Biology
, Joao Dorea, University of Wisconson Madison, AI for Food and Environment
, Jun Deng, Yale University, AI for Health
,
Registration is required by October 1, 2026,
Planning Committee:
Wenrui Hao
, Sarah Ivory
, Sharon Huang
, Enrico Casella
, Vishal Singh
, Dajiang Liu
, David Koslicki
,
Schedule and Speakers:
8:30 am - Welcome, Christina Grozinger and Andrew Read,
8:45 am - 10:00 am - AI for Molecular and Cellular Biology, Moderated by Shaun Mahony,
Speaker/Presenter
Title
Ed O'Brien
How data reuse and AI/ML are accelerating scientific discovery in molecular and cellular biology
Shaun Mahony
Neural…
Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES. Registration Link: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/nU4trGTsj7.
Thursday, October 15, 2026, 8:30 AM – 3:30 PM.
CIDD Seminar Series, ft. Nathan Grubaugh
Our fall seminar series is nearly full, with an impressive lineup of expert presenters ready to share their knowledge and insights. Don't miss these outstanding opportunities to learn, connect, and engage.
Featured speaker: Nathan Grubaugh of Yale University,
CIDD Coffee begins at 10:30 am in MSC W-202; CIDD Seminars begin at 11:00 am in MSC W-203.
Location Details (Venue Name/Virtual Platform): Millennium Science Complex. Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES, UP - Center - CIDD.
Thursday, October 15, 2026, 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM.
Neuroscience Seminar Series, featuring Martin Ralph
Title to be Announced
Neuroscience Seminar Series,
October 15, 2026 | 11:00 am - 12:00 pm,
008 Mueller Building, University Park,
Featuring: Martin Ralph, University of Toronto,
Abstract: ,
About the Speaker: ,
Seminar Contact: Paul Bartell,
.
Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES.
Thursday, October 15, 2026, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM.
OHMC Seminar Series ft. Tristan Caro
A Microbial Observer Effect? Confronting Microbiome Rate and Phenotype Measurements “In The Wild”
Featuring:
Tristan Caro, Caltech,
Contact:
Mallorie Smith, mqs5394@psu.edu.
Location Details (Venue Name/Virtual Platform): 106 Animal, Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences Building. Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES, UP - Center - OHMC.
Friday, October 16, 2026, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM.
Plant Biology Seminar, featuring Thomas Juenger
Genetic and genomic studies of ecotypes and local adaptation in Panicum virgatum.
Plant Biology Seminar Series,
October 19, 2026 | 12:15 - 1:15 pm,
108 Wartik Laboratory, University Park,
Featuring: Thomas Juenger, University of Texas at Austin,
Abstract: Plants live in an ever-changing and unpredictable environment. As sessile organisms, they must acclimate or adapt to complex environmental changes occurring across both space and time. Which environmental variables matter the most? What physiological or metabolic mechanisms buffer responses to the environment? How are these responses encoded in genomes and how do they evolve? Genome-enabled research is helping to address these longstanding questions by characterized a myriad of genetic, genomic, and physiological responses to common abiotic and biotic stress. The challenge now is to disentangle evolved and adaptive responses of plants to stress from the deleterious results of stress. A promising avenue is the use of locally adapted… .
Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES.
Monday, October 19, 2026, 12:15 PM – 1:15 PM.
Ecology Seminar Series, featuring Kelsey Brock
Talk Title to be Announced
Ecology Seminar Series,
October 19, 2026 | 1:25 - 2:15 pm,
208 Business Building, University Park,
Featuring: Kelsey Brock, University of Wyoming,
Abstract: ,
About the Speaker:
Seminar Contact: Emma van der Heide,
.
Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES.
Monday, October 19, 2026, 1:25 PM – 2:15 PM.
DAWG Workshop
Data Analysis Working Group (DAWG) is a One Health Microbiome Center affiliated group that comes together to analyze high-throughput sequencing data.
While the main goal is to provide training to the One Health Microbiome Center members on how to process and analyze sequencing datasets, we aim to:
Utilize the skills of our Center members to help researchers process and analyze sequencing data, culminating in results for a grant application or publication
, Provide an opportunity for students/post-docs to further develop skills as group leaders of DAWG by creating and delivering their own workshop
, Help build collaborations between members of the One Health Microbiome Center and other Penn State researchers who are interested in microbiome research.
Organization: UP - Center - OHMC.
Tuesday, October 20, 2026, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM.
UP: Animal, Veterinary, and Biomedical Sciences 106.
CIDD Seminar Series, ft. Samuel Brown
Our fall seminar series is nearly full, with an impressive lineup of expert presenters ready to share their knowledge and insights. Don't miss these outstanding opportunities to learn, connect, and engage.
Featured speaker: Samuel Brown of Georgia Tech,
CIDD Coffee begins at 10:30 am in MSC W-202; CIDD Seminars begin at 11:00 am in MSC W-203.
Location Details (Venue Name/Virtual Platform): Millennium Science Complex. Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES, UP - Center - CIDD.
Thursday, October 22, 2026, 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM.
OHMC Seminar Series ft. Stephen Taerum
Protists: external “guts” of the plant rhizosphere,
Featuring:
Stephen Taerum, The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station,
Contact:
Mallorie Smith, mqs5394@psu.edu.
Location Details (Venue Name/Virtual Platform): 106 Animal, Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences Building. Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES, UP - Center - OHMC.
Friday, October 23, 2026, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM.
Plant Biology Seminar - Ryan Folk
Shifts in evolutionary lability underlie independent gains and losses of root nodule symbiosis in a single clade of plants
Plant Biology Seminar Series,
Invited and Hosted by Plant Biology Graduate Students,
October 26, 2026 @ 12:15 pm to 01:15 pm
, 108 Wartik Laboratory, University Park
,
Featuring:
Ryan Folk
, Purdue University
,
Abstract, Root nodule symbiosis (RNS) allows plants to access atmospheric nitrogen through a mutualistic relationship with soil bacteria in the root nodule organ and succeed in confronting ecological challenge. Pinpointing the evolutionary origins of nodules is critical to understanding the genetic basis of RNS, a complex trait requiring coordination from both the plant host and the bacterial symbiont. This endeavor is complicated by data limitations and the intermittent presence of RNS in a single clade of ca. 30,000 species of flowering plants, i.e. the nitrogen-fixing clade (NFC). The purpose of this talk is to explain the main methods and… .
Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES.
Monday, October 26, 2026, 12:15 PM – 1:15 PM.
Ecology Seminar Series, featuring Shana Sundstrom
Talk Title to be Announced
Ecology Seminar Series,
October 26, 2026 | 1:25 - 2:15 pm,
208 Business Building, University Park,
Featuring: Shana Sundstrom, University of Nebraska, Lincoln,
Abstract: ,
About the Speaker:
Seminar Contact: Sarah Goslee,
.
Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES.
Monday, October 26, 2026, 1:25 PM – 2:15 PM.
Huck Distinguished Lecture - Andres Garcia
Bioengineered Hydrogels for Regenerative Medicine
Distinguished Lectures in Life Science,
October 27, 2026 @ 04:00 pm to 05:00 pm
, Refreshments at 3:30 pm
, 102 Animal, Veterinary, and Biomedical Sciences Building, University Park
, Pre-lecture refreshments from 3:30 - 4:00 pm
,
Featuring:
Andres J. Garcia, Georgia Tech
,
Abstract: Hydrogels, highly hydrated cross-linked polymer networks, have emerged as powerful synthetic analogs of extracellular matrices for basic cell studies as well as promising biomaterials for regenerative medicine applications. A critical advantage of these synthetic matrices over natural networks is that bioactive functionalities, such as cell adhesive sequences and growth factors, can be incorporated in precise densities while the substrate mechanical properties are independently controlled. We have engineered poly(ethylene glycol) [PEG]-maleimide hydrogels for local delivery of therapeutic proteins and cells in several regenerative… .
Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES.
Tuesday, October 27, 2026, 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM.
Biotech Day 2026
The Center of Excellence in Industrial Biotechnology (COEIB) is hosting its first-ever engagement and networking event: “Biotech Day.” Registration is required but free! Biotech Day will be a micro-conference, focusing on the advancement of biotechnology and preparing students for entry into the biotechnology industry. Come out and join us, and enjoy all the exciting things we have in store: - Guest Speaker Presentations, - Poster Session, - Networking, - And more! Date: Thursday, October 29th, 2026, Time: 10:00 am - 1:30 pm, Location: 603 Barron Innovation HUB, Featuring:
Dr. Andrew Zydney; Penn State University
, Jace Fogle; Abbvie.
Location Details (Venue Name/Virtual Platform): 603 Barron Innovation Hub 123 South Burrowes Street State College, PA. Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES, UP - Center - COEIB.
Thursday, October 29, 2026, 10:00 AM – 1:30 PM.
CIDD Seminar Series (Speaker TBD)
Our fall seminar series is nearly full, with an impressive lineup of expert presenters ready to share their knowledge and insights. Don't miss these outstanding opportunities to learn, connect, and engage.
CIDD Coffee begins at 10:30 am in MSC W-202; CIDD Seminars begin at 11:00 am in MSC W-203.
Location Details (Venue Name/Virtual Platform): Millennium Science Complex. Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES, UP - Center - CIDD.
Thursday, October 29, 2026, 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM.
Neuroscience Seminar Series, featuring Gregory Knipp
Development of an In Vitro Model of the Human Neurovascular Unit (NVU) for Drug and Phenotypic Screening
Neuroscience Seminar Series,
October 29, 2026 | 11:00 am - 12:00 pm,
008 Mueller Building, University Park,
Featuring: Gregory Knipp, Purdue University,
Abstract: Neuroinflammatory responses are associated with many disorders, and in particular with neurodegenerative diseases (e.g. Alzheimer’s Disease). Clinical trial success in treating CNS disorders (5.6%) lag far behind the rates for other disorders (13.2%), in part due to the fact that only 2% of all approved therapies traverse the BBB. A significant unmet medical need exists for advanced approaches to discover and develop new treatments for diseases that involve the brain's interface with the BBB. The high attrition rates associated with development of neurotherapeutics are theorized to be due to issues including the restrictiveness of the BBB, off target toxicity, or a lack of efficacy during late-stage clinical trials. We posit… .
Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES.
Thursday, October 29, 2026, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM.
OHMC Seminar Series ft. Pak Kin Wong
Rapid Microbial Biosensing for Precision Medicine,
Featuring:
Pak Kin Wong, Penn State University,
Contact:
Mallorie Smith, mqs5394@psu.edu.
Location Details (Venue Name/Virtual Platform): 106 Animal, Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences Building. Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES, UP - Center - OHMC.
Friday, October 30, 2026, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM.
Plant Biology Seminar, featuring Daniela Carrijo
Managing winter cover crops for soybean and corn production
Plant Biology Seminar Series,
November 2, 2026 | 12:15 - 1:15 pm,
108 Wartik Laboratory, University Park,
Featuring: Daniela Carrijo, Penn State University,
Abstract: In many traditional corn-soybean rotation systems, the land is left fallow during the winter months. In contrast, growing a winter cover crop can provide numerous soil health benefits, including increasing soil organic carbon, improving soil structure and fertility, and promoting microbial activity. However, questions remain about how winter cover crops influence water and nitrogen availability for subsequent summer crops. For example, cover crops can deplete soil water during the spring when they are rapidly growing and potentially reduce water availability to the following crop; meanwhile, cover crop residue left on the soil after cover crop termination can conserve soil moisture during the summer months. Further, cover crops can either increase or reduce nitrogen… .
Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES.
Monday, November 2, 2026, 12:15 PM – 1:15 PM.
Huck Distinguished Lecture - Matthew Campen
Minding the nanoplastics: bringing the worlds of environmental science and toxicology together to better understand an emerging global exposure
Distinguished Lectures in Life Science,
November 3, 2026 from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm
, Refreshments at 3:30 pm
, 102 Animal, Veterinary, and Biomedical Sciences Building, University Park
, Pre-lecture refreshments from 3:30 - 4:00 pm
,
Featuring:
Matthew Campen, University of New Mexico
,
Abstract: Plastic materials degrade into particles that have been named microplastics (describing particles <5mm in diameter) or nanoplastics, wherein one dimension is <100nm. Most environmental research has focused on larger microplastics that are typically >5µm, largely due to limitations of technology. However, it has been known for decades that particulates that get into the human body are universally less than 500 nm in diameter. This talk will cover the recent journey to better assess nanoplastics concentrations in the human body and… .
Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES.
Tuesday, November 3, 2026, 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM.
Materials Day 2026
We’re thrilled to announce that Materials Day 2026 is set for Wednesday, November 4, at the Millennium Science Complex (MSC).
Last year’s new one-day format drew a record crowd of more than 500 attendees from Penn State and industry. Materials Day 2026 builds on that success, with more opportunities to explore research, see Penn State facilities in action, and make connections across the materials community. Join fellow industry leaders, researchers, students, and faculty for a dynamic day of discovery, collaboration, and innovation.
What's in store:
Interactive poster sessions happening throughout the day: meet graduate students and faculty members representing many research groups from across Penn State and dive into emerging materials science breakthroughs.
, Guided and self-guided tours of the MSC: see our cutting-edge facilities up close with live demonstrations!
, Flash talks: Hear brief presentations highlighting the latest research techniques, tools, discoveries, and capabilities across…
Location Details (Venue Name/Virtual Platform): Millennium Science Complex. Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES, UP - Institute - VPR - MRI.
Wednesday, November 4, 2026, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
Monthly Cryo-EM User Group Meeting
Monthly Cryo-EM User Group Meeting,
W203, Millennium Science Complex.
Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES.
Wednesday, November 4, 2026, 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM.
CIDD Seminar Series, ft. Gui Becker
Our fall seminar series is nearly full, with an impressive lineup of expert presenters ready to share their knowledge and insights. Don't miss these outstanding opportunities to learn, connect, and engage.
Featured speaker: Gui Becker of Penn State University,
CIDD Coffee begins at 10:30 am in MSC W-202; CIDD Seminars begin at 11:00 am in MSC W-203.
Location Details (Venue Name/Virtual Platform): Millennium Science Complex. Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES, UP - Center - CIDD.
Thursday, November 5, 2026, 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM.
OHMC Seminar Series ft. Aida Ebrahimi
Engineering Bioelectronic Technologies for One Health: From Pathogens to Plants and Human Health,
Featuring:
Seyedehaida (Aida) Ebrahimi, Penn State University,
Contact:
Mallorie Smith, mqs5394@psu.edu.
Location Details (Venue Name/Virtual Platform): 106 Animal, Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences Building. Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES, UP - Center - OHMC.
Friday, November 6, 2026, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM.
Plant Biology Seminar - Wen-Yuan Song
The Immune Receptor XA21 Induces Fertility Defects in Rice
Plant Biology Seminar Series,
November 9, 2026 @ 12:15 pm to 01:15 pm
108 Wartk Laboratory, University Park
Featuring:
Wen-Yuan Song, University of Florida,
Abstract: Resistance (R) genes increase host fitness under disease pressure but can hinder plant growth and reproduction in the absence of pathogens. However, there is limited knowledge regarding the molecular bases of R gene-associated detrimental effects, the environmental conditions under which R gene-related developmental penalties are manifested, and the mechanisms by which host plants mitigate such costs. The rice R gene Xa21, which encodes a cell-surface immune receptor (XA21), was identified exclusively in Oryza longistaminata from Mali (O. l. Mali). XA21 provides broad-spectrum resistance against Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae (Xoo), the causal agent of bacterial leaf blight, a devastating disease that threatens rice production across Asia and Africa. We… .
Location Details (Venue Name/Virtual Platform): 108 Wartik Laboratory. Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES.
Monday, November 9, 2026, 12:15 PM – 1:15 PM.
DAWG Workshop
Data Analysis Working Group (DAWG) is a One Health Microbiome Center affiliated group that comes together to analyze high-throughput sequencing data.
While the main goal is to provide training to the One Health Microbiome Center members on how to process and analyze sequencing datasets, we aim to:
Utilize the skills of our Center members to help researchers process and analyze sequencing data, culminating in results for a grant application or publication
, Provide an opportunity for students/post-docs to further develop skills as group leaders of DAWG by creating and delivering their own workshop
, Help build collaborations between members of the One Health Microbiome Center and other Penn State researchers who are interested in microbiome research.
Organization: UP - Center - OHMC.
Tuesday, November 10, 2026, 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM.
UP: Animal, Veterinary, and Biomedical Sciences 106.
CIDD Seminar Series, ft. Luis Schang
Our fall seminar series is nearly full, with an impressive lineup of expert presenters ready to share their knowledge and insights. Don't miss these outstanding opportunities to learn, connect, and engage.
Featured speaker: Luis Schang of Cornell University,
CIDD Coffee begins at 10:30 am in MSC W-202; CIDD Seminars begin at 11:00 am in MSC W-203.
Location Details (Venue Name/Virtual Platform): Millennium Science Complex. Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES, UP - Center - CIDD.
Thursday, November 12, 2026, 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM.
Neuroscience Seminar Series, featuring Subhojit Roy
Neuronal Trafficking in Physiology and Disease
Neuroscience Seminar Series,
November 12, 2026 | 11:00 am - 12:00 pm,
008 Mueller Building, University Park,
Featuring: Subhojit Roy, University of California, San Diego,
Abstract: A static cell is a dead cell, and life depends on precise spatiotemporal trafficking of molecules. This is especially true for neurons, where the vast majority of proteins are synthesized in small cell-bodies and transported into elaborate axons and synapses. Movement within micron-sized synapses is also vital, and trafficking of molecules within synapses is a critical determinant of synaptic function. Thus, understanding trafficking pathways often gives insight into disease mechanisms and offers clues into early events that can be therapeutically manipulated. The Roy lab is interested in understanding the cell biology of neuronal trafficking in physiology and disease using a variety of methods including live/superresolution imaging and electron microscopy. ,
… .
Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES.
Thursday, November 12, 2026, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM.
Interdisciplinary Innovation Fellows Talk: Pablo Ochoa-Anderson
Interdisciplinary Innovation Fellow Talk,
Featuring:
Pablo Ochoa-Anderson, Penn State University,
Contact:
Mallorie Smith, mqs5394@psu.edu.
Location Details (Venue Name/Virtual Platform): 106 Animal, Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences Building. Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES, UP - Center - OHMC.
Friday, November 13, 2026, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM.
Plant Biology Seminar - Sara Serra
Consumer Liking And “Real-Time” Quality of Emerging Apple Varieties, Plant Biology Seminar Series
Plant Biology Seminar Series,
November 16, 2026 @ 12:15 pm to 01:15 pm
108 Wartik Laboratory, University Park
Featuring:
Sara Serra, Penn State University,
Abstract: Among consumers in Southern Pennsylvania, Honeycrisp is still very popular, but due to the diversity of apple varieties grown in the area, some novel varieties are catching consumer attention. An apple variety known for its outstanding eating quality is MAIA-1 (Evercrisp), but its downside is a very poor appearance due to sensitivity to russeting, and a stubborn green background that struggles to turn into a lighter hue close to harvest. For this trial, we sought to test consumer liking across popular apples such as Gala, Royal Red Honeycrisp, and Aztec Fuji against two new promising varieties, MAIA-1 and NJ150Cv. (Ruby Rush). The orchards selected for this investigation were located at the Pennsylvania State FREC… .
Location Details (Venue Name/Virtual Platform): 108 Wartik Laboratory. Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES.
Monday, November 16, 2026, 12:15 PM – 1:15 PM.
CIDD Seminar Series (Speaker TBD)
Our fall seminar series is nearly full, with an impressive lineup of expert presenters ready to share their knowledge and insights. Don't miss these outstanding opportunities to learn, connect, and engage.
CIDD Coffee begins at 10:30 am in MSC W-202; CIDD Seminars begin at 11:00 am in MSC W-203.
Location Details (Venue Name/Virtual Platform): Millennium Science Complex. Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES, UP - Center - CIDD.
Thursday, November 19, 2026, 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM.
Interdisciplinary Innovation Fellows Talk: Shannon Ryan and Auja Bywater
Interdisciplinary Innovation Fellows Talk,
Featuring:
Shannon Ryan, Penn State University,
Auja Bywater, Penn State University,
Contact:
Mallorie Smith, mqs5394@psu.edu.
Location Details (Venue Name/Virtual Platform): 106 Animal, Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences Building. Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES, UP - Center - OHMC.
Friday, November 20, 2026, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM.
CRRB Monthly Networking Meeting
Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES.
Thursday, November 26, 2026, 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM.
UP: Millennium Science Complex W201.
Plant Biology Seminar - Maria de Lima Brossi
Advancing Bioinoculants: A Systems Approach to Microbial-Mediated Plant Nutrition
Plant Biology Seminar Series,
November 30, 2026 @ 12:15 pm to 01:15 pm
108 Wartik Laboratory, University Park
Featuring:
Maria de Lima Brossi, Penn State University,
Abstract: This lecture examines how advancing bioinoculants requires a shift from reductionist, product-based approaches toward a systems-level understanding of plant-microbe-soil interactions. Drawing on principles from microbial ecology, rhizosphere biology, and plant nutrition, it explores how microbial communities regulate nutrient acquisition under variable and often limiting environmental conditions, with particular emphasis on context dependency and predictability. The lecture will also introduce the "Bioinoculant Research Network" highlighting its role in fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and bridging fundamental research with translational outcomes. By integrating ecological theory with applied frameworks, the talk will… .
Location Details (Venue Name/Virtual Platform): 108 Wartik Laboratory. Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES.
Monday, November 30, 2026, 12:15 PM – 1:15 PM.
Ecology Seminar Series, featuring Aimee Classen
Talk Title to be Announced
Ecology Seminar Series,
November 30, 2026 | 1:25 - 2:15 pm,
208 Business Building, University Park,
Featuring: Aimee Classen, University of Michigan,
Abstract: ,
About the Speaker:
Seminar Contact: Jared Ali,
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Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES.
Monday, November 30, 2026, 1:25 PM – 2:15 PM.
Monthly Cryo-EM User Group Meeting
Monthly Cryo-EM User Group Meeting,
W203, Millennium Science Complex.
Organization: UP - Institute - HUCK LIFE SCIENCES.
Wednesday, December 2, 2026, 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM.