Category: Feature

The sweet history of chocolate draws thousands to St. Augustine

Tourism in St. Augustine got a delicious boost last winter when UF researchers introduced a free exhibit about the history of chocolate, created thanks to a $14,000 Forrest E. Mars, Jr. Chocolate History Grant.

UF professor Clarissa Carr, Ph.D., and UF Master of Historic Preservation student Anthea Grant, pictured above, were recently awarded an additional $17,000 to conduct further research on cultural traditions related to cocoa production.

UF’s Florida LAKEWATCH program saved State of Florida $5M in 2024

The University of Florida’s Florida LAKEWATCH program saved the state an estimated $5 million in water quality monitoring, according to a 2024 annual report released in March. Florida LAKEWATCH is a volunteer lake-monitoring program that facilitates hands-on participation in the management of Florida lakes, estuaries, rivers and springs through monthly monitoring activities. 

2025 Superior Accomplishment Awards recognize outstanding and meritorious service

Twenty staff and faculty members representing a wide range of experience and hailing from UF locations throughout Florida were recognized for their outstanding service in a ceremony held today at the Reitz Union Grand Ballroom.

Apply now for 2025–26 leadership development programs

Faculty and staff are invited to apply for the 2025–26 UF Academy and Advanced Leadership for Academics and Professionals programs now through May 2. Applications for the Managers Cohort will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Read on to learn more about each program.

Hurricane season is here — keep current to stay current 

With the arrival of hurricane season, we want to remind you of helpful resources and upcoming events designed to prepare and support you in case of a tropical storm. We encourage everyone to become familiar with the university’s emergency plans and take the necessary precautions in advance of a forecast. 

Health challenges astronauts face after nine months in space

As part of the University of Florida’s ongoing research into astronaut health, Rachael Seidler, Ph.D., a leading expert in spaceflight-associated health changes, is studying the long-term effects of space travel on astronauts’ brains and bodies.

Seidler’s research, part of a broader collaboration with NASA to assess astronaut long-term health, focuses on understanding how the central nervous system and brain structure adapt to the challenges of space travel, as well as how these changes affect performance, balance and mobility once astronauts return to Earth.

Summer EEP deadline approaching

UF faculty and staff who wish to take college courses through the Employee Education Program, or EEP, during the summer semester are encouraged to visit the program website today for information on upcoming application, approval and registration deadlines. 

Farm but no fowl: How Florida aquaculture is growing the economy

Florida’s thriving aquaculture industry is a vital part of the state’s economy, generating more than $165 million in sales annually and supporting jobs across rural and coastal communities. Aquaculture contributes to food security, environmental sustainability and economic resilience, and with proper regulatory support, it can continue to be a driving force in Florida’s economy and environmental stewardship.

Improve your financial literacy with upcoming webinars

No matter what stage of life you are in, you can invest in your financial health — and overall well-being — by empowering yourself and building healthy financial habits. To help you along your financial journey, we’ve partnered with experts in the field to host a variety of webinars throughout April covering topics ranging from credit card debt to affordable cooking and more.

UF ranked among world’s top universities in number of patents

The National Academy of Inventors ranked the University of Florida No. 20 on the list of Top 100 Worldwide Universities Granted Utility Patents in 2024.

“An important part of our mission as a public research university is in translating research discoveries into impact,” said David Norton, Ph.D., UF’s vice president for research. “For decades, UF has been a leader in creating technologies that improve the lives of people within the state, the nation and world. UF research is making a better tomorrow.”