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News

Hippocampus Neurons

How Cocaine Rewires the Brain To Drive Relapse

When a cocaine addict relapses, it isn’t a matter of personal failure — it’s the biological result of their brain’s rewiring, new research finds. Scientists found that cocaine changes how the hippocampus functions, contributing to the compulsion to seek out the drug.
Eggs Visualization

Research Sheds New Light on Genetic Causes of Infertility

For years, most fertility research has focused on the embryo. But new research from Michigan State University and Rutgers Health suggests that the health of the uterus itself may be a key part of the puzzle.
Lydia Beaudrot

Species in Crisis

MSU ecologists are using big data and advanced models to better understand why wildlife populations are declining worldwide. Their research analyzes environmental and species data to help develop more effective conservation strategies.
Overview of MSU campus

Researcher Drives Equine Safety, Welfare Forward Through Alliance–Backed Studies

MSU researcher Brian Nielsen is leading studies to improve horse safety and welfare. His work examines training practices and treatments to help protect horses and riders while giving the equine industry science-based guidance.
Two scientists in a laboratory

Why Chronic Pain Lasts Longer in Women: Immune Cells Offer Clues

Chronic pain lasts longer for women than men, and new research suggests differences in hormone-regulated immune cells, called monocytes, may help explain why.
Kaylin Burton walking with person in hospital

Learning Medicine by Living It

MSU’s Intergenerational Living Program pairs medical students with older adults in a senior living community, blending education with real-world care. By living alongside residents with dementia, students gain empathy, clinical insight and hands-on experience beyond the classroom.
Research lab group holding large diamond

AI Is a Lab Diamond’s Best Friend for Semiconductors

MSU has secured a $3 million NSF grant to use AI in growing high-quality lab diamonds for next-generation semiconductors. Partnering with Fraunhofer USA centers, the project aims to advance manufacturing innovation and strengthen the U.S. tech workforce.
Two tractors in a large farm field

Rep. Brixie Touts Research As Essential to Maintaining Agricultural Diversity

Rep. Julie Brixie highlights MSU research as essential to protecting Michigan’s diverse agriculture. From climate pressures to labor and disease challenges, MSU partnerships help farmers adapt and keep the state’s agricultural identity strong.
Announcements
OR&I Town Hall Outlines Ambitious Vision for Growth, Collaboration, and Research Impact at MSU
The event brought together OR&I staff and partners to discuss priorities for growth, highlight emerging opportunities, and reinforce the role research plays in improving lives in Michigan and beyond.
The Jenison Fund: Expanding Support Across MSU’s Research Community
The Jenison Fund’s latest round of awards underscores the breadth and impact of research at MSU.
Newly Renovated $35M Plant Science Research Greenhouses Open
Michigan State University leadership hosted more than 100 stakeholders and friends of the university on May 14 to celebrate the opening of the newly renovated  MSU Plant Science Research Greenhouse Complex.  
Shipley Named 2026 Guggenheim Fellow
MSU photography faculty member Lara Shipley has been named a Guggenheim Fellow for the 2026 cohort. She will use her Fellowship to help finance an art project on wolves in Minnesota.
O’Halloran Named Member of American Academy of Arts and Sciences
Thomas O’Halloran is among the 252 newest members of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, joining a historic group that includes figures like George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, Charles Darwin and Albert Einstein.
Spartan Researchers Convene for One Health Research Workshops
Faculty voices are helping shape the future of One Health Research at MSU, where interconnected health challenges meet collaborative, real-world solutions.