Facing Down Global Threats There are few existential threats that require a significant effort by all of humanity. Over the past several years, the long-term impacts of one of them — climate change — has come into focus, thanks in part to scientists at Â鶹¾«Æ·ÊÓƵ and many others around the world. And even though we knew about the possibility of the second one — a global pandemic — one overtook much of our daily lives with little warning.
What’s clear about climate change and the COVID-19 crisis is that researchers tackling these ultra-complex issues will help ameliorate the impacts to our environment, health and economies. I’m proud to say that Â鶹¾«Æ·ÊÓƵfaculty, staff and students are doing their part to find solutions. Throughout this issue of Owl Research & Innovation, you can read about some of their world-changing work.
For example, John Reed at FAU’s Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institute discovered a unique underwater coral reef system off the coast of Florida. His work led to the world’s first marine protected area for deep-sea coral, preserving this irreplaceable biological system. Harbor Branch celebrates its 50th anniversary this year and John has been there almost the entire time.
Scientists at Â鶹¾«Æ·ÊÓƵHarbor Branch also are central to understanding the harmful algal blooms that plague much of our state, as well as waterways around the world. Additionally, the Â鶹¾«Æ·ÊÓƵCenter for Environmental Studies is helping residents from South Florida to Georgia learn about coastal resilience in the face of rising seas.
Beyond our oceans and environment, many Â鶹¾«Æ·ÊÓƵresearchers quickly took up studies related to COVID-19 as the pandemic bared down on us. FAU’s Clinical Research Unit launched a registry and repository so scientists can investigate how the disease impacts the vast majority of people who were infected but didn’t need hospital care. In addition, a number of federal agencies awarded Â鶹¾«Æ·ÊÓƵscientists with large research grants for other pandemic-related studies.
Our faculty have stood up to the challenges of our times — again and again. We all can take pride in that. You’ll learn about a few of those endeavors in the pages of this magazine.
Stay safe, and Go Owls!
John Kelly,
President