Biosciences News

A critical component of the planned state-of-the-art macromolecular crystallography beamline Gemini has arrived at the Lab. The specially-designed in-vacuum undulator insertion device will yield higher photon flux compared to the Advanced Light Source’s superbend magnet and wiggler sources, bringing solutions to some of the most challenging projects in structural biology within reach.

Sphagnum’s impact on global carbon cycling and climate is estimated to be larger than any other single plant genus. Researchers estimate a quarter of the world’s terrestrial carbon is stored in peatlands, which make up nearly 3 percent of the earth’s land surface. Through two separate proposals enabled by the JGI’s Community Science Program (CSP), researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory and at the University of Vienna are developing a number of resources to build up Sphagnum as a plant model system focused on carbon cycling studies. Learn more on the JGI’s website.

Six Biosciences employees have been selected by the Women Scientists and Engineers Council (WSEC) and the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Office for recognition as part of the third Women @ The Lab awards. The program spotlights women at the Lab who demonstrate dedication, talent, STEM contributions, and commitment to the Lab’s mission.

CASP is the Critical Assessment of Protein Structure Predictions, a biannual “competition” to determine which prediction algorithm generates the most accurate model. There are several categories in which models will be assessed, including accuracy, topology, and biological relevance. The SIBYLS beamline is participating to provide small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) data for––and judging for the first time––the “data-assisted” category. This CASP competition should lead to improvement in predicting protein-protein interfaces and complex structures.

Associate Laboratory Director for Biosciences Mary Maxon has announced the completion of the Biosciences Strategic Plan 5-Year Progress Report that measures progress towards meeting the 5-year milestones outlined in the Biosciences Strategic Plan (BSP). These milestones address challenges in energy, environment, health, biomanufacturing, and technology development. The report contains information compiled by Biosciences staff responsible for the implementation of the strategies (Strategy Leads) and Mentors, who oversee these five challenge areas, assessing progress toward and highlighting the accomplishments of Biosciences Area researchers.