The fall series of "Science at the Theater" events kicks off Monday, Sept. 28, with a panel discussion on biofuels moderated by John Fowler, health and science editor of KTVU. The three panelists are Jay Keasling, acting deputy director of the Lab and head of the Joint BioEnergy Institute, Jim Bristow, deputy director of programs at the Joint Genome Institute (JGI), and Susannah Green Tringe, a biophysicist at JGI. The event takes place at 7 p.m. in the Berkeley Repertory Theatre (2025 Addison St.) and is free and open to the public. More>
Berkeley Lab's community group, Friends of Science, has gotten a new name — and a new website. They are now called Friends of Berkeley Lab, and their online presence resides at friendsofberkeleylab.lbl.gov. The Friends of Berkeley Lab will remain a forum for people interested in learning about science and science solutions, but the name change reflects a goal of strengthening the relationship between Berkeley Lab and the community. Membership is free and may include benefits such as specially hosted tours and opportunities to engage with Lab scientists. Lab staff are invited to join.
JGI: Fungal Map of Mutations Key to Increasing Enzyme Production for Bioenergy In half a century, one fungus has gone from being the bane of the Army quartermasters' existence in the Pacific to industry staple and someday, as part of the Department of Energy's mission to promote national energy security through clean, renewable energy development. Trichoderma reesei's makeover is due in part to scientific explorations that led to the development of mutant fungal strains that produce large quantities of biomass-degrading enzymes. Now an international team of researchers led by scientists at the Joint Genome Institute (JGI) provides the first genome-wide look at what these mutations are in order to understand just how cellulase production was first improved, and how it can be boosted even further. More>
Community Outreach: Volunteers Sought for Solano Stroll on Sept. 13Every year, thousands attend the annual Solano Stroll, a daylong event that features a parade, exotic food, and lively entertainment as well as informational booths staffed by local businesses and organizations. Berkeley Lab will be hosting a booth and is looking for volunteers to answer questions and hand out literature for two-hour intervals during the Stroll, which runs from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Those interested in participating can send e-mail here.
The Lab's cafeteria is having its exhaust system replaced, an approximately two-week job that will start on Tuesday. As a result, their ovens will be out of commission, which means no pizza or other baked goods. The deli and grill will not be affected in any way.
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