Earth is the original innovator 🌍 This Earth Day, we’re looking at research across ASU that takes inspiration from nature— how it adapts, solves problems, and sustains itself. Nature has been doing this for a while. And we're happy to listen and learn from her. Happy #EarthDay!

ASU and MyLand are partnering on a nature-based solution that helps crops use less #water without sacrificing yield. By introducing native microalgae into irrigation systems, soil health and water retention improves. Learn more here: https://ow.ly/4F9E50YMLbX

From #ArtemisII to #ProjectHailMary, the mysteries and possibilities of outer space are on many of our minds right now. 💫 Which makes it the perfect time to learn more about space with astrophysicist Skylar Grayson! Check out the full episode and learn more at labcoatoptional.asu.edu#ArtemisII

What if your energy system could think for itself? ASU developed software that connects solar panels, batteries and backup generators and then decides when to use or store power for maximum efficiency. The result: less wasted energy & lower costs. Learn more: https://ow.ly/EjbT50YIUK3

Scientist term of the day: Banana pose. In his work studying PFAS ("forever chemicals"), Charlie Rolsky has observed seals from coast to coast! The seals of Maine enjoy a leisurely lifestyle, leading to the famous banana pose! Learn more in the full episode: labcoatoptional.asu.edu

ASU's Rosa Krajmalnik-Brown is studying the gut microbiome and its connection to #autism. Her team found that many autistic children are missing beneficial gut microbes. By restoring those microbes, they’ve seen improvements in physical and mental health. Explore more: https://ow.ly/uGEG50YGKV8#autism

Lab coats: Optional. Dad jokes: Probable. Thank you to Shaw Institute Executive Director Charlie Rolsky for being a generous guest on Lab Coat Optional! He and Pete discussed all things plastic pollution, including how it impacts the health of ocean wildlife. labcoatoptional.asu.edu 🥼

Conserving natural resources starts with rethinking water. From new purification methods to advanced reuse in manufacturing, ASU is helping reduce water consumption where it matters most. Because in the Southwest, #sustainability is essential: https://ow.ly/pwau50YFiTv

At ASU, scientists are exploring how the gut may play a role in #autism — how microbial communities behave, change & function through sequencing and analysis. This research could unlock new ways to understand and support individuals with autism. Learn more and support: https://ow.ly/A0cs50YEwNr

Seeing a heart before surgery can save a life. With 1.3 million children born with #heartdefects each year, that insight matters. “We could give the surgeon the opportunity to quite literally hold a patient’s heart in their hand before operating.” Read more: https://ow.ly/8tWr50YEwtt

An idea formed underwater. After Charels Rolsky noticed whales eating microplastics in the ocean, he joined ASU to investigate microplastics in our waters. Now as executive director at the Shaw Institute, he analyzes how microplastics infiltrate our environment and bodies. labcoatoptional.asu.edu

Locust swarms devastate crops worldwide. ASU researchers found a soil-based solution that reduces damage and boosts yields. And it could matter here—locusts are nearing the U.S. border. Learn more here: https://ow.ly/NY6s50YCTpk

“Biodegradable.” What does it actually mean? We sat down with Shaw Institute Executive Director Charlie Rolsky to break it down. He explores what we know about microplastics and why “biodegradable” often doesn’t mean what we think. 🎧 Listen at labcoatoptional.asu.edu!

Even experts get tricked by #AI. One issue with conversational AI like #ChatGPT or #Claude is that they can "hallucinate." Or in other words, make stuff up. Andrew Maynard recently joined Lab Coat Optional to discuss the future of AI— The good, the bad and the fabricated: labcoatoptional.asu.edu

Wondering what ASU research is all about? From advanced technologies to health breakthroughs, we pursue research for the public good. Learn more: https://issuu.com/asuoked/docs/knowledge_enterprise_2025_year_in_review

In case you missed it: AI and emerging technologies are reshaping daily life. Andrew Maynard, scientist, author and professor in the Rob Walton College of Global Futures, discusses how we navigate disruptive innovation responsibly — and hold onto our humanity. labcoatoptional.asu.edu

ASU is a go-to research partner. And for good reason! Our talented researchers, cutting-edge facilities, and dedication to interdisciplinary collaboration delivers real impact for our community and beyond. Learn more about how ASU research makes a difference: https://ow.ly/GBsx50YypuW

Getting your yard ready for summer? Rethink using weed killers with #glyphosate. A 2022 study found that the weed-killing ingredient can enter the brain. A 2024 study showed that short-term exposure can have lasting effects, including changes linked to #Alzheimers. More: https://ow.ly/v55550YxF3b

It's natural to find farming in the desert counterintuitive, but it's backed up by 10,000 years of human civilation. Nevertheless, Arizona has a water problem. So where do we look for solutions? Revisit season 2, episode 1 of Lab Coat Optional with Rhett Larson to find out! labcoatoptional.asu.edu

What does it mean to be human in the age of AI? Author and expert Andrew Maynard explores that question on the latest episode of Lab Coat Optional. From biotechnology to artificial intelligence, how do we navigate rapid change without losing ourselves? Listen at labcoatoptional.asu.edu.

Happy #SunDevilGiving Day! Your support fuels access to education, groundbreaking research and innovations that challenge the status quo. Visit asufoundation.org/sundevilgiving#SunDevilGivingto learn about the six commitments behind Changing Futures, and help us change the world.

Children who need a motorized wheelchair have to pass a driving test, but training wheelchairs can cost thousands of dollars. ASU students created low-cost motorized training wheelchairs to help children ages 4 to 7 learn how to drive safely! Read more here: https://ow.ly/xFfN50Yt3Ya

Want to give back, but don't know where to begin? #SunDevilGivingDay is this Thursday! This year, all donations will be directed into ASU's Changing Futures campaign— research to solve our biggest challenges, from healthcare to environmental protection, and more. Give at https://ow.ly/vEVU50Yt1E5

#NIH director on working with Indigenous communities: We shouldn't be standing above and studying. "You do that with Petri dishes, but not with people." It's crucial to listen, learn from and collaborate with experts in the community. Check out Lab Coat Optional for the full conversation!

3,695. That's the number of students engaged in paid research positions at ASU! In our labs, students get hands-on experience working side by side with renowned scientists and even leading their own research projects. Learn more: https://ow.ly/hz3x50Yt1O2

"I just came away tremendously impressed." We recent spoke with the director of the NIH on Lab Coat Optional, and he shared how impressed he is by the education and research opportunities at ASU. Watch the full episode to learn about NIH research, priorities, and more! labcoatoptional.asu.edu

#SunDevilGiving Day is just around the corner! This year giving is focused on ASU's Changing Futures campaign, which guides donations to support projects and research that address our world's most pressing issues. Get inspired and learning more: asufoundation.org/sundevilgiving#SunDevilGiving

ICYMI: Dr. Jay Bhattacharya, director of the #NIH and acting director of the #CDC, joined Lab Coat Optional for a bonus episode. He and host Pete discussed everything from #AutismResearch to Jay's love of board games. Give it a listen and let us know what you think! labcoatoptional.asu.edu

In Arizona, electricity demand is now growing by roughly 615 megawatts each year. And that growth isn’t expected to slow. So how do we rise to meet it? Listen to Lab Coat Optional to learn what Arizona’s energy demand looks likeand how we’re building pathways forward. labcoatoptional.asu.edu

Learning today, leading tomorrow. As one of the nation's top research institutions, ASU is proud to provide hands-on learning experiences for the next generation of researchers. Swipe through for some highlights of ASU research impact, then learn more at research.asu.edu!

"I wanted to sort of turn the temperature and just have science lead the way on this." That's how NIH Director Dr. Jay Bhattacharya described the approach to studying autism in the Autism Data Science Initiative. Get insight into the agency and where it's headed: labcoatoptional.asu.edu

Is nuclear the solution to rising energy demands? We asked energy experts Kelly Barr and Gary Dirks from the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory. Check out their episode of Lab Coat Optional to learn more about how ASU is leading energy solutions of tomorrow! labcoatoptional.asu.edu

As the demand grows for critical minerals like copper, so does the need for better mining techniques and a workforce ready to secure these materials. ASU brings together industry and academia to strengthen U.S. competitiveness in the critical minerals space. Read more: https://ow.ly/l3OB50YpWKf

Bonus episode featuring NIH Director Dr. Jay Bhattacharya! He discusses his priorities for the agency, building trust with Tribal communities, his advice to young researchers — and favorite board games. Find Lab Coat Optional wherever you stream podcasts and learn more at labcoatoptional.asu.edu!

Energy demands are rising. ASU is working to meet them, responsibly. In the latest episode of Lab Coat Optional, we sit down with energy experts Kelly Barr and Gary Dirks from the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Lab. Check out the full episode: labcoatoptional.asu.edu

At ASU, discovery is guided by service — from clean energy to national security, early wildfire detection and workforce development. Looking ahead, our sights are set on national priorities: Responsible AI advancement, quantum science, food as medicine & more. Read more: https://ow.ly/b1Ts50Yo6ZE

ASU and @columbiauniversity researchers found increased flooding and outdated flood prediction led to massive debt for the National Flood Insurance Program. Researchers propose creating regional catastrophe bonds or secondary insurance to handle hyperclustered events. 🔗 https://ow.ly/IS6650YmZKM

Building the nation’s chip capital starts with research. ASU has helped bring $200B+ in semiconductor investment to Arizona through partnerships, innovation and workforce development. ➡️ Explore more in our Year in Review: https://issuu.com/asuoked/docs/knowledge_enterprise_2025_year_in_review

Does participation in strikes matter? Check out our Lab Coat Optional episode "The power– and limits – of labor action" to learn about the significance of labor and how it fits into the history context of the American labor movement. Learn more at labcoatoptional.asu.edu!

This week on Lab Coat Optional, we spoke with national security expert Nadya Bliss about the vital role university research plays behind the scenes to anticipate needs, strengthen infrastructure, accelerate innovation and prevent conflict. Find Lab Coat Optional wherever you listen to podcasts!

BONUS! Check Lab Coat Optional episode with ASU-Science Prize winners Meha Jain of @umich.edu and Mayank Kejriwal of @usc.edu They were both recognized for using AI to tackle two challenges: Supporting farmers through climate change and investigating online sex trafficking. labcoatoptional.asu.edu

National security means being prepared for anything. Even squirrels. Check out the latest episode of Lab Coat Optional, featuring national security researcher Nadya Bliss. She breaks down how university research helps anticipate emerging needs and quietly prevent conflict. labcoatoptional.asu.edu

40% of Americans will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime. ASU researchers and partners developed peptide 2012: A therapy to stop cancer cells from anchoring, growing and spreading. Learn more in our 2025 highlights: https://issuu.com/asuoked/docs/knowledge_enterprise_2025_year_in_review

Congratulations to Prof. Jain on her Prize for Transformational Impact. She has reminded us of the value in going to "the source" to address not only Science questions, but more importantly, real world challenges facing humanity.

Last week, we were joined by researchers, educators and journalists from around the world to explore the idea of "Science at Scale." Thank you to all those who shared knowledge, strategy & inspiration for the year ahead. See how ASU research is scaling to meet today's challenges: research.asu.edu.

We have chemistry. And engineering and biology and physics and computer science, too. Tag your statistically significant other in the comments 💘🧑‍🔬

Raise a glass, or an Erlenmeyer flask, to women and girls in science! On International Day of Women and Girls in Science, we celebrate the researchers driving discovery at ASU. From sustainability to outer space, women across ASU’s research institutes are advancing science with real-world impact.

Congratulations to the inaugural ASU– @science.org Prize for Transformational Impact winner, Meha Jain! An associate professor at the University of Michigan, Jain is recognized for using satellite data and machine learning to study how small-scale farmers adapt to climate stress 👉 ow.ly/bxSL50Y9zem

From Arizona to orbit. 🌎🚀 ASU research is strengthening national security through AI-driven emergency planning, military training tools, pandemic response innovation and next-gen space and defense technologies. Join us at the @aaas.org annual meeting to see national security science at scale!

🎉 Congratulations to Meha Jain, winner of the inaugural ASU–Science Prize for Transformational Impact, for pioneering work that uses satellite data and artificial intelligence to help smallholder farmers adapt to climate change while protecting the environment. Learn more: https://scim.ag/3McGb9K