Zuckermann

Foundry Scientists Develop
Tailorable Protein Nanotubes

There’s a new building block in the nanoscience tool box. Scientists at the Molecular Foundry used a recently discovered, donut-shaped protein to build customizable nanotubes that can be lengthened, shortened, or sealed at both ends to form capsules. Ron Zuckermann, the Facility Director of the Foundry’s Biological Nanostructures Facility, developed the nanotube with Edward Ballister, also with the Foundry; Joseph Mougous of the University of Washington; and Yifan Cheng and Angela Lai of the University of California at San Francisco. Full story.

Proposed Extension to Supplement Military Pay

Under current University policy, eligible employees who are on active military duty may receive supplemental payments from the University to their military salaries, and a continuation of their UC health-plan benefits. The current program is in effect until June 30, 2008. Because it is the University's continuing desire to assist employees called to active military duty during current and related campaigns, the University is proposing to extend its policy until June 30, 2010. Information about the proposed policy change may be found here. To comment on this proposed change, contact HR Policy by Tuesday, June 3.

Document Shredding
Instructions Outlined

Employees who need to have documents shredded should follow these instructions to make sure the job is done correctly: place all papers in a box, seal the box and clearly write “shred” on it, then contact the Work Request Center (x6274) with a PID number and an address for pick-up. After the boxes are picked-up, they will be stored in a secure location until on-site shredding is conducted. Facilities will receive and file the destruction certificate.

National Drinking
Water Week: May 4-10

National Drinking Water Week, which is May 4-10, is intended to highlight the importance of safe tap water. This year marks the 100th anniversary of the first use of chlorine as a primary disinfectant in drinking water in Jersey City, New Jersey. Go here for more information on National Drinking Water Week. For Berkeley Lab drinking water questions, call x2826.

May 28 Symposium
Honors Edward Teller

Lawrence Livermore National Lab is hosting a symposium on the scientific legacy of Edward Teller as part of his centennial observance. The May 28 event will be held at the new Bankhead Theatre in downtown Livermore. Presentations and historical reflections on Teller's scientific career will be followed by lectures in fields of science, technology, and education in which he made seminal contributions. Go here for more information.