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News

Person holding a small trout

Genetics Tip the Scales for Trout in a Warming World

A new study in Nature Communications reveals that genetic variation across brook trout populations may influence which groups are better equipped to handle rising water temperatures. The findings highlight how local adaptations could play a key role in species survival and inform strategies to strengthen at-risk populations.
Person holding child's hand walking

Lack of Childcare Access Limits Michigan’s Labor Force

Childcare isn’t just hard to find in much of Michigan, it’s nearly impossible. With three children competing for every open spot, the shortage is reshaping families, businesses, and the economy itself. MSU researchers are digging into how this hidden crisis affects the state’s workforce and future.
Sky view of highway and ocean

Spartan Science Is Making Transportation Safer

Every time you buckle up, there’s a good chance Michigan State University research is helping keep you safe. With more than 50 faculty across MSU Mobility and the College of Engineering, Spartan researchers are tackling transportation challenges from every angle, including safer roads, stronger vehicles, smarter infrastructure and secure autonomous systems.
High view of Michigan's Upper Peninsula town

From Sap to Sustainability: Inside MSU’s Forestry Innovation Center

On a crisp spring morning in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, a web of tubing threads through a stand of maples. Clear sap drips into collection lines, destined not only for syrup but for research that could reshape medicine, food safety and even the whiskey industry.
Crystal under laser technology

Using Crystals and Light, Scientists Unlock New Ways to Grow Materials On-Demand

Researchers at Michigan State University have discovered how to "draw" on demand the crystals used in many crucial technologies, from solar panels and LED lighting to medical imaging. Appearing in the journal ACS Nano, the breakthrough was achieved by striking gold nanoparticles with a single laser pulse.
Leaves in bunches

Seeds of Hope

College of Natural Science plant researchers are racing to build climate-resilient crops before global food systems reach a breaking point.
Two scientists in a laboratory

Fuel for the Finish Line: How Sperm Achieve ‘Overdrive’

Michigan State University scientists have pinpointed the molecular “switch” that supercharges sperm for their final sprint to an egg — a breakthrough that could reshape infertility treatments and pave the way for safe, nonhormonal male contraceptives.
Doctor consulting patient

Researchers Lead $3.7M Study to Shed Light on Perimenopause and Psychosis

For decades, women’s midlife experiences have been largely overlooked by medical research. Despite previous assumptions about midlife mental health risks, relatively little research has systematically investigated the connections between hormonal fluctuations and psychological symptoms.
Announcements
Q&A with Nick Miller, Director of Business Connect at the MSU Innovation Center
In this Q&A, Nick Miller, director of Business Connect at the MSU Innovation Center, shares insights on the value of industry-sponsored research, resources available to help faculty connect with corporate partners, and steps researchers can take to initiate successful collaborations.
NIH Awards Multi-University Team Over $4M to Improve Women’s Health
A $4.6 million NIH award is supporting an MSU-led research team working to improve women’s health through advanced computer models that account for hormonal changes across the lifespan.
MSU Maintains High Ranking for Research by Washington Monthly
Washington Monthly ranked MSU among the nation’s top research universities, recognizing its research strength, doctoral education, and faculty accomplishments.
MSU Graduate Researchers Receive Support to Advance Promising Approaches to Cancer Detection and Treatment
MSU's ORI and the Aitch Foundation have selected three graduate students as recipients of the 2026 Aitch Foundation Fellowship. Each fellowship provides $30,000 in support for a 12-month period, enabling recipients to advance innovative research projects with the potential to improve cancer diagnosis, treatment, and patient outcomes.
Luedtke Awarded 2026 NEOGEN Land Grant Prize
Michigan State University doctoral student Christian Luedtke has been awarded the 2026 NEOGEN Land Grant Prize, which recognizes graduate student research with the potential to advance scientific discovery while creating economic impact through practical applications.
Flint Awards Highest Civic Honor to MSU's Mona Hanna
MSU’s Mona Hanna received a key to the city of Flint in recognition of her transformative impact on public health and child advocacy.