Advancing CRISPR: Lehigh researchers to develop predictive models for gene editing

CRISPR is a revolutionary tool that allows scientists to precisely modify the genome and gene expression of cells in any organism. It’s a reagent—a substance that facilitates a reaction—that combines an enzyme with a programmable RNA capable of locating specific genetic sequences. Once guided to the correct spot, the enzyme acts like a pair of scissors, cutting, replacing, or deleting sequences of DNA.

Researchers are now using the technology to, among many things, treat genetic diseases, develop medical therapeutics, and design diagnostic tools.

Lehigh researchers pioneer customizable ceramics for next-gen technologies

Developing ceramics with tailored geometries has long been a challenge. Achieving that kind of customization would allow materials to be designed with specific shapes and structures that make them stronger, more heat-resistant, or better at conducting electricity. Such materials could then enable improved technologies, such as more efficient electronics, better sensors, or even new types of energy devices. Lehigh University materials science and engineering faculty members Helen M. Chan, New Jersey Zinc professor, and Jeffrey M. Rickman, Class of ’61 professor, recently received funding from the National Science Foundation to continue a project that is using a novel approach that could potentially revolutionize the fabrication of ceramics.

Lehigh ISE redesigns its master’s programs, creating a novel program in optimization

The Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering (ISE) of Lehigh University is now offering a new redesigned master’s program portfolio. We will continue to offer a core master’s program, renamed Industrial Engineering and Operations Research (IEOR), for which new courses on organizational excellence, project management, and uncertainty systems are offered. The IEOR Program equips graduates with the skills to excel in their chosen fields while meeting the demands of industry, business, and government.

Killing weeds and nurturing crops: sustainable agriculture at its finest

Weeds. Not only do they strangle your aunt’s petunias at the roots, they also have the entire agricultural industry in a $33 billion headlock.

That is the estimated annual cost of dealing with invasive plants that compete with cultivated crops for water, nutrients, light, and space.

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