Science

An Olympian, a sprinter and two divers brightened the days of pediatric patients last week through their work with Shine On Tucson. The UA athletes gave toys and other goodies to children at The University of Arizona Medical Center-Diamond Children's. View photos of the visit via the UA's Facebook page.

The UA's Matt Sullivan is one of 16 scientists sharing $35 million in grant funding from the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation to study microbes in the oceans. Sullivan and his colleagues will pursue projects that may lead to unexpected and breakthrough discoveries, specifically how the trillions upon trillions of microscopic organisms at the base of the ocean's food webs interact with each other and their environment.

Deans from across campus share their thoughts about the historic and contemporary importance of the UA's land-grant mission. Whether it is related to scientific research, the arts or the free exchange of information, the mission for many signals a commitment to communities across the state coupled with efforts that are important and impactful to people around the globe.

For Photo Album.

Mars Science Laboratory's Curiosity rover is scheduled to land on the Red Planet Aug. 5. In advance of the landing, Science Downtown is hosting a celebration event on Aug. 4 that is open to the UA and Tucson communities. It will include special guests, displays, tours and other activities.