Quantum Secrets
Of Photosynthesis

Fleming
Engel

The mystery of how Nature, through photosynthesis, is able to transfer solar energy through molecular systems with nearly 100-percent efficiency appears to have been solved. A study led by Deputy Lab Director Graham Fleming has identified a quantum mechanical effect as the answer. Using a technique called 2-D electronic spectroscopy, Fleming and a team that included Greg Engel of the Physical Biosciences Division obtained the first direct evidence of wavelike motions of excitation energy that can explore all potential energy pathways simultaneously and choose the most efficient one. The results are reported in this week’s edition of the journal Nature. Full story.

EPA Creates Renewable
Fuel Standard Program

The Environmental Protection Agency announced Tuesday the establishment of the nation's first comprehensive Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) program. Authorized by the Energy Policy Act of 2005, the RFS program requires that the equivalent of at least 7.5 billion gallons of renewable fuel be blended into motor vehicle fuel sold in the United States by 2012. The program is estimated to cut petroleum use by up to 3.9 billion gallons and cut annual greenhouse gas emissions by up to 13.1 million metric tons. Full story.

New S&E Job
Titles Chosen

Based on comments and suggestions shared at two town hall meetings and an online opinion poll, Deputy Lab Director Graham Fleming has decided on the titles for Scientific/ Engineering (S&E) jobs that are part of proposed changes to the Lab's Professional Research Staff policy (RPM 2.07). Go here to view Fleming's e-mail sent to Scientific, Engineering and Faculty staff earlier this week, and to view a chart outlining the Lab's scientific career paths, which includes the new set of S&E job titles. The new Professional Research Staff policy is expected to be finalized shortly, and will be announced in TABL when it goes into effect. Those affected will also receive individual letters from their division on the change.

Staff Discount Tickets
For Rep's 'Blue Door'

Lab employees can receive a 20-percent discount on tickets from the Berkeley Repertory Theater for their latest production, "Blue Door," directed by Delroy Lindo. The play tells the story of an African- American professor who is forced to examine his family, history, and identity after refusing to attend the Million Man March. Tickets are available for shows on Saturday (2 and 8 p.m.), and Sunday (2 and 7 p.m.), as well as April 17 (8 p.m.), April 18 (7 p.m.), April 19 (2 and 8 p.m.), and April 20 and 21 (8 p.m.). Go here to learn more about the play, and here to order tickets (use promo code 2277).