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News

Solar System Diagram

First Scientific Paper on 3I/ATLAS Interstellar Object

When the news started to spread on July 1, 2025, about a new object that was spotted from outside our solar system, only the third of its kind ever known, astronomers at Michigan State University — along with a team of international researchers — turned their telescopes to capture data on the new celestial sighting.
Colorful line up of lithium batteries

MSU Researchers Develop Wood-Based Material That Improves Safety and Life of Lithium-Ion Batteries

For consumers worried about the risks associated with using lithium-ion batteries — which are used in everything from phones to laptops to electric vehicles — Michigan State University has discovered that a natural material found in wood can improve battery safety while also improving the battery’s life.
A large cargo ship carrying colorful shipping containers

MSU Study Unpacks How 2025 Tariffs Shocked Global Supply Chain

In the wake of the largest series of U.S. tariff hikes since 1930, a new study from Michigan State University explores how this economic shock is reshaping global supply chains and offers a framework to help researchers and policymakers make sense of the chaos. The study was recently published in the Journal of Supply Chain Management.
RFID Scan tag

RFID Isn’t Just for Tracking Inventory: New MSU Research Shows It Secures Drug Supply Chain

New MSU-led research shows how real-time tracking using RFID can fight counterfeit drugs, protect patients, and help pharmaceutical companies meet new federal security standards. The breakthrough pilot, led by the Axia Institute, proves RFID’s potential for total traceability, from production to pharmacy.
Herd of cows on a farm

Researchers Map the Worldwide Threat of Antibiotic Resistance in Livestock Waste

A major international study by Michigan State University and partner researchers has uncovered a hidden danger lurking in animal farms around the world: Livestock manure is packed with antibiotic resistance genes that could threaten human health. This study spanned 14 years and represents the most comprehensive survey of livestock antibiotic resistant genes to date.
Dionne O’Dell leads a rehearsal

O'Dell Publishes Book on Creating Theatre With Neurodiverse Audiences in Mind

MSU Theatre Specialist Dionne O’Dell releases her debut book, The Sense-Ability Ensemble’s Guide to Creating Theatre for Audiences that are Neurodiverse, offering an inside look at building inclusive performances from the ground up. Available July 1, 2025.
Rainout Shelter at MSU's Kellog's Biological Station

Some Studies Might Not Paint Full Picture of How Plants Respond to Climate Change

Scientists may be underestimating how plants will respond to rising global temperatures when they study hot summers but not warming winters, Michigan State University ecologists found.
Anaerobic digestion facility

Transforming Waste Into a Public Asset: Michigan State University Leads Next-Generation Anaerobic Digestion Innovation

As conversations continue to build among policymakers and industry leaders on how to best address nutrient runoff, energy transition and sustainable waste management in the Great Lakes region, Michigan State University scientists are pioneering solutions that transform organic waste into a public asset.
Announcements
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.
Douglas Awarded Honorary Doctorate in Belgium
Philosopher Heather Douglas of Michigan State University was awarded an honorary doctorate in Belgium for her influential work on science, ethics and public trust.
Ren Named 2026 Guggenheim Fellow
Xuefei Ren was named a 2026 Guggenheim Fellow for her internationally recognized research and upcoming project examining AI, data centers and the future of urban regions in China and the U.S.
Malete and Pfeiffer Named Gwen Norrell Professors
Two Michigan State University professors were named Gwen Norrell Professors, recognizing their work in youth sport and student-athlete well-being. Their research will advance physical, mental and developmental outcomes for young athletes.