October 15, 2014

Table of Contents

Featured Research & Overview

• Microbiologist Studies Human Impacts, Remediation at Hailstone NWR: Investigating the role of soil microorganisms in reclaiming high-saline ecosystems
• Peters Lab Launches DoE Center: Announcement of a $10 million grant to harness microbial metabolic systems for clean energy
• About Montana NSF EPSCoR: Overview of the flagship program to advance statewide science and engineering capabilities

People and Events

• Upcoming Events: Calendar of open seminars, science conferences, and STEM educator workshops
• People in the IoE: Recognition of top cited researchers and the recipient of the E.O. Wilson Biodiversity Technology Pioneer Award
• IoE Extends Research Projects: Introduction to seven newly funded statewide environmental and microbiological projects

Student Highlights

• Graduate Student Researches Ecosystem Succession: Analysis of microbial community trajectories along glacial chronosequences
• Undergrad Studies Wildfire Impacts on Pollinators: Field research on plant-pollinator foraging habits and interaction patterns following fires

Research and Outreach

• Faculty Practice SciComms: Collaboration with OneMontana to bridge the rural-urban divide through science communication
• Montana Water Center Joins IoE: Integration of the statewide water resources research center
• VISTA Member Serves Blackfeet Community: Immersive science learning initiatives at Blackfeet Community College
• Microbiology Research Benefits Hailstone NWR (Continuation): Deeper details on treating soil salinity and contamination