A cat’s-eye view of one of the most beloved pets

In “The Science of Cats,” an Arts & Sciences course for senior biology majors, WashU students use what they’ve learned about evolution, ecology and behavior to get to know one of the most popular pet animals in America.

Decoding the chaos of cognition

A new deep learning tool from biologist Keith Hengen in Arts & Sciences allows scientists to give neurons a “computational fingerprint.” The work, published in Cell Reports, could significantly advance our understanding of the building blocks of thought.

Board grants faculty appointments, promotions

At the recent Board of Trustees meeting, numerous faculty members in various disciplines were appointed with tenure, promoted with tenure or granted tenure. Most of their new roles will take effect July 1.

Policy change contributed to housing boom, bust

New research by Olin Business School’s Brittany Lewis investigates the risky practices of independent mortgage companies, which contributed to the 2008-09 global financial crisis. The work also offers a unique perspective on the recent Silicon Valley Bank collapse.

Notables

Neuropathologist Sonika Dahiya, MD, a professor of pathology and immunology and chief of the neuro-oncology section at the School of Medicine, has been named to the Working Committee of the Consortium to Inform Molecular and Practical Approaches to CNS Tumor Taxonomy.

Notables

Three juniors in Arts & Sciences — John Georgiades (left), Shelei Pan and Kaung “Ken” Soe — have received the Barry Goldwater Scholarship, a prestigious award that honors students who conduct research in the natural sciences, mathematics and engineering.

Notables

Randall V. Martin (center), a world-renowned expert in atmospheric composition at the McKelvey School of Engineering, has been named the Raymond R. Tucker Distinguished Professor. He was installed March 30 at a ceremony in Brauer Hall.