What is Integrated Safety Management, or ISM? A new interactive video provides a short introduction to Integrated Safety Management, and brief overview of ISM's five core functions. Click on any one of the five functions to learn more about how it is applied in the workplace. The video is the latest edition to the Lab’s “Our Safety” website.
In The News: Invisibility Shield is #28 Among Time’s Best Inventions of 2008Scientists at UC Berkeley — including Berkeley Lab materials scientist Xiang Zhang —have taken a major step toward making Harry Potter's disguise of choice a reality. They've engineered two new materials — one using a fishnet of metal layers, the other using tiny silver wires — that neither absorb nor reflect light, causing it instead to bend backward. The principle at work is refraction, which is what makes a straw appear bent in a glass of water. More>
Tech Transfer: Researchers Invited to Apply for Commercialization FundsBerkeley Lab researchers are invited to apply to the Technology Commercialization Fund (TCF), supported by the DOE Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. Projects require matching funds or effort by a private sector partner, use of an invention or software created at Berkeley Lab, and a goal of moving the technology closer to commercialization. Selected proposals will advance the EERE mission objectives. Awards of $50-$250k are anticipated. The Letter of Intent is deadline is Nov. 14. More>
DOE Update: New Agreements Streamline Access to User Facilities The Department of Energy recently announced two new model agreements that will expand access to DOE’s world-class research facilities by academia and industry. The streamlined agreements will also simplify the process for gaining access to DOE facilities and promote the transfer of cutting-edge technologies from DOE national laboratories. Pre-approved, standardized model agreements — one for proprietary research, the other for non-proprietary research — are now authorized for use at all designated DOE user facilities. The agreements are intended to require minimal, if any, further negotiation and to be quickly executable. More>
New shuttle bus routes and schedules begin today, which include changes to the Potter/JBEI route and schedule and the relocation of the Downtown BART Station stop to Shattuck Ave. between Center and Addison. Visit the Bus Services website for route maps, schedules, and information on services. Also debuting today is the new pilot LabPorter service. A van will be made available for 15 minute reservation periods to transport passengers at no charge for official lab business onsite only between 10:30 to 11:45 a.m. and 1 to 3:45 p.m. Reservations can be made by calling x6274 or via e-mail.
The Lab will hold a job fair this Saturday in the cafeteria, from noon to 4 p.m. The fair will be open to the public, and attendees will not be required to secure access in advance. Rather, they will be able to obtain a temporary parking pass at Blackberry Gate. The Lab will provide free on-site parking and free limited shuttle service from the Downtown Berkeley BART station. This fair will focus on recruiting for two divisions —Facilities and Environment, Health and Safety — and hiring managers will be holding onsite interviews. Those interested in volunteering for the job fair can contact Susan McAllister (x5683). More>
The Philanthropy Club will be hosting a visit by the American Red Cross Bloodmobile on Friday, Nov. 21 from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the cafeteria parking lot. Go here to make an appointment (sponsor code is LBL). Donation rules have changed recently, so those who were previously rejected for donations may now be eligible.
The annual Berkeley Lab Holiday Craft Fair will he held Thursday, Dec. 11, from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. in the cafeteria. The fair, sponsored by the Employee Activities Association, features a variety of handmade goods created by Berkeley Lab staff, which can be purchased as gifts. Those interested in having a booth at the Craft Fair should contact Robin Mitchell.