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Alumni & Friends

Welcome back SIB Alumni!

We’re thrilled to reconnect with our vibrant community of SIB graduates—your achievements, insights, and continued engagement are what make our legacy of discovery and impact so meaningful. Whether you’re here to share your story, mentor the next generation, or stay updated on the latest news and opportunities, we’re glad you’re part of the SIB family.

SIB News

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Meet the 2026 Integrative Biology homecoming court student representative
 Each year, the University of Illinois Homecoming Court brings together students from across campus who represent the diverse communities, interests, and accomplishments that make the university so special. This year, the School of Integrative Biology (IB) was represented by a student whose...
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Pollen study reveals the hidden history of grasses
 CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Scientists used machine-learning and super-resolution microscopy to overcome a challenge that has stymied research into the natural history of grasses for decades. Their method allowed them to detect subtle differences among grass pollen grains and trace changes in grass...
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Climbing against cancer
 While completing his pediatric oncology fellowship at the University of Michigan, Carl Koschmann (BS, ‘02, biology honors) met a young patient battling cancer.Her name was Vara James. At 9 years old, she was diagnosed with a Wilms tumor in her kidney....
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Entomology Alumnae Erin Welsh and Erin Allmann Updyke featured in STORIED magazine
Discover the compelling story behind the popular podcast “This Podcast Will Kill You” in the latest issue of Storied, the University of Illinois’ alumni magazine published through Illinois Advancement! The article highlights Entomology graduates Erin Welsh and Erin Allmann Updyke,...
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Three SIB faculty part of college of LAS professorships
The College of Liberal Arts & Sciences has named several accomplished faculty members to endowed chair and professorship positions. The positions are some of the highest honors that can be granted by the college. The recipients will be awarded discretionary funding to carry out research...
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Entomology's Gene Robinson co-authors opinion piece on AI
Entomology professor Dr. Gene Robinson has co-authored an opinion piece published on September 23 in the Chicago Tribune addressing the critical need for trust in artificial intelligence. The article, titled “Chicago must lead on building trust in AI,” explores how to navigate the...

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Please help us continue guiding the next generation of scientists.

You and your investment play an invaluable role in the success of our students, faculty, and staff. Your impact is evident in the cutting-edge discoveries and transformative educational experiences that have emerged from our school. 

As we continue to push the boundaries of scientific understanding, we would like to convey our gratitude to you for being instrumental in shaping the future of biological sciences and fostering a community committed to excellence by supporting our School through fellowships, scholarships, and essential upgrades to laboratories, classrooms, and technologies. 
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Celebrate excellence — nominate a fellow alumni for a distinguished alumni award!

Help us honor the remarkable achievements of School of Integrative Biology alumni! We’re seeking nominations for the Achievement Award and the Outstanding Recent Alumni Award. Both are a chance to spotlight a fellow SIB grad whose professional success or exceptional contributions reflect the value of their Illinois education.

Know someone who inspires, leads, or makes an impact in their field? Submit your nomination by the deadline and give them the recognition they deserve within the SIB community!
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