Eberly News
WVU forensic science research responds to DEA need for faster, better identification of drugs like fentanyl
A new partnership between West Virginia University and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, backed by $399,000 in funding from the National Institute of Justice, aims to revolutionize drug identification in forensic science. WVU’s Glen Jackson is advancing the Expert Algorithm for Substance Identification (EASI), which promises to improve the accuracy and speed of identifying psychoactive substances like fentanyl and its analogs, crucial for law enforcement and legal proceedings. This breakthrough could save labs time and resources while aiding in the fight against drug-related overdoses.
The Center for Resilient Communities Welcomes Eighteen Students to the 2025 Resilient Communities Internship Program
Eighteen undergraduate students have been selected for the prestigious Resilient Communities Internship at the WVU Center for Resilient Communities. This internship provides opportunities for students to engage in community-based research and leadership development, focusing on social change in Appalachia. With a focus on Community Economies, Environmental Justice, and Food System Transformation, participants will work alongside local partners to address global and local issues.
WVU academic advisers continue to earn recognition, make their mark
WVU Shines at National Academic Advising Conference, Showcasing Excellence and Collaboration in Student Success
Remembering Elaine “Micki” Ginsberg
REMEMBERING ELAINE “MICKI” GINSBERG
4 student leaders chosen for 2024 Hazel Ruby McQuain Graduate Scholarship for strong focus on community
Taylor Brown is studying for a doctoral degree in lifespan developmental psychology. Riley Klug, majored in anthropology while also completing programs in art history, Native American Studies and political science. Hannah Lamb is a graduate student in the WVU Master of Social Work program. Clara Monson is pursuing a Master of Arts degree in English at WVU with the goal of becoming an English professor.
Empowering educators, WVU launches microcredential to aid learners of different abilities
Applications are now being accepted for a new West Virginia University microcredential designed to boost support for Mountain State educators and their students via an innovative teaching method pioneered by late WVU alumna Vicci Tucci.
For WVU ethics officer, research integrity is a question of values
In June, research ethicist Trisha Phillips held a training session with a group of West Virginia University students.
“I asked what they’d learned from the reading,” Phillips recalled. “One student raised their hand and said, ‘I hadn’t understood that there are authorship standards and norms,’ such as guidelines determining the order in which names of authors of an academic paper are listed.
“The student thought that was entirely up to their advisor. For them to know there are standardized practices was empowering. It helped them understand how research is done, what it means to be listed as an author.”
That’s what it’s all about for Phillips. As a scholar, she focuses on research misconduct and norms or best practices, and she teaches political science at the WVU Eberly College of Arts and Sciences. In her role at the WVU Research Office, Phillips promotes research integrity at the University.
WVU biologist to study genes laying framework for whole body regeneration
A West Virginia University biologist is studying why some animals can regenerate while others cannot and has identified the genes that play a role in the process.
Christopher Arnold, assistant professor of biology at the WVU Eberly College of Arts and Sciences, will explore how genes establishing animal body plans — the structure of organs and tissues — also set the stage for regenerative abilities.
His research could provide insight into human development and disease, leading to enhanced understanding of factors underlying tissue regeneration and inspiring novel approaches to improving human health.