News and Events

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SIB Distinction

Want to stand out and dive deeper into biology? The Distinction program is your chance to work on cool research projects, get hands-on experience, and team up with world-class faculty mentors. It’s a great way to boost a resume, sharpen biology skills, and get ready for whatever’s next—whether that’s grad school or a dream job. Check it out and see how you can make your biology journey even more exciting!

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Awards

Celebrate the achievements of our talented students, faculty, and staff! Our Awards and Honors page highlights the outstanding accomplishments and recognitions that showcase the hard work and dedication within our community. It’s a great way for alumni, friends, and supporters to see the impact we’re making in biology and beyond.

Celebrate our 2026 winners

SIB News

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Tracy Lawson wins ISPR Innovation Award

In recognition of her outstanding achievements in the transfer of photosynthesis research to the benefit of society at large, Professor of Plant Biology Tracy Lawson (PFS co-leader/CAMBERS) at the University of Illinois and the University of Essex, has won the Innovation Award from the...

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EEB graduate student Francis Dinh wins Spring 2026 Dissertation Travel Grant

This spring, EEB graduate student Francis Dinh achieved a significant milestone in his research on the threespine stickleback. Dinh was awarded the...

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PEEC graduate student Shasta Kamara awarded a Dissertation Completion Fellowship

This spring, PEEC graduate student Shasta Kamara was awarded the Graduate College's Dissertation Completion Fellowship. This fellowship helps outstanding Illinois graduate students complete the doctoral degree by providing a 9-month...

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SIB alumnus amongst Illinois students awarded Fulbright grants

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Nine University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign students and recent graduates were offered Fulbright grants to pursue international education, research and teaching experiences around the globe this coming year.Seven of the awardees have accepted grants from the ...

Honey bees’ sense of smell changes from larval to adult life stages, study finds

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — Honey bee larvae lack the sophisticated olfactory capabilities of adult honey bees, a new study finds. Scientists point to this temporary loss-of-function as a side effect of the nurse bees’ heroic level of brood care, calling it a consequence of social evolution.The new findings...

Don't miss Entomology Associate Professor Esther Ngumbi's article on fertilizer use

In a recent publication with The Conversation, Entomology Associate Professor Ester Ngumbi reveals groundbreaking insights into the hidden costs of fertilizer use. While fertilizers are vital for crop production, Ngumbi highlights how excessive use can damage essential soil microbes that underpin...