Science and environment

Discover how AU researchers are fuelled by discovery and driven for impact in science, technology, sustainability, and the environment.

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2024 YR4 won't hit Earth in 2032—but future asteroid impacts are inevitable

Athabasca University professor Dr. Martin Connors explains asteroid impacts on Earth are inevitable, but we shouldn’t lose sleep over it.

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Understanding the passion and chemistry of chocolate

Athabasca University chemistry professor Dr. Dietmar Kennepohl explores the passion and chemistry of chocolate.

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‘Plant probiotics’ a possible fix for restoring former coal mine

Research partnership explores using fungi and bacteria to restore prairie grassland and help plants thrive in southern Alberta.

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A chemist’s glimpse at the happiest drink in the world: beer

Athabasca University chemistry professor Dr. Dietmar Kennepohl shares insights on beer's chemistry and what makes it a timeless classic.

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International space science collaboration helps proton auroras come into focus

New equipment at Athabasca University’s space science observatories will help researchers get a better look at proton auroras in the atmosphere and determine what impact they may have on the ozone layer.

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AU researcher engineers microbes to detect oilsands pollutants

Dr. Shawn Lewenza is doing novel work to engineer bacteria in a way that can support oilsands tailings remediation.

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Exploring the future of architectural education

A free seven-part lecture series from Athabasca University, the Future of Architectural Education, explores issues in the profession.

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How microbes can help us protect the environment

Athabasca University researcher Dr. Srijak Bhatnagar says microbes can warn of damage and help clean it up

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A solar eclipse and a black hole can both bend light

During night-like conditions created during the totality of a solar eclipse, planets and stars are visible—and can tell us a lot.

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April 8 eclipse provides a rare opportunity to witness the sun’s superhot corona

Dr. Martin Connors explains how the April 8 eclipse is a rare opportunity to see the hottest thing any human ever sees: the sun's corona.

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A space scientist's tips for viewing the northern lights

Athabasca University space scientist explains how northern lights form and when conditions are right for viewing.

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Opinion: Larger and more frequent solar storms will make for potential disruptions and spectacular auroras on Earth

Bright auroras, with dancing lights in the sky, characterize the clear winter nights of northern Canada, Dr. Martin Connors writes

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Opinion: Responsible ESG investing in the Global South requires overcoming the Global North’s saviour complex

Athabasca University business professor Dr. F. Haider Alvi on responsible ESG investing in the Global South.

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3 AU researchers to inspire you on Ada Lovelace Day (and all year long!)

For Ada Lovelace Day, a celebration of women in STEM fields, Athabasca University is highlighting three women doing amazing research.

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Solving big problems with tiny microbes

Explore bioinformatics' impact on healthcare and environment. Join Athabasca University's program for a promising career in a growing field.

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Help solve environmental problems with a career in environmental data analytics

Learn about how Athabasca University's Master of Science in Information Systems degree can open career paths in environmental consulting, government agencies, and non-profit organizations.

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Podcast: Asian heritage in Canada's built environment—why it matters

Dr. Henry Tsang, an assistant professor of architecture, joins the AUSU podcast to talk Asian heritage in Canada's built environment.

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ChatGPT doesn’t always get it right, but the future of AI is 'so scary and so exciting,’ says AU prof

Discover what ChatGPT knows about Dr. Jon Dron, and what that tells us about the potential impacts of AI technology on society and culture.

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5 things to keep in mind while picking wild mushrooms

While fruitful, mushroom picking can be a dangerous hobby, so before you head out check out these 5 mushroom hunting tips!

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Asian heritage inspires AU architect's work

Athabasca University professor and architect Dr. Henry Tsang discusses how his Asian heritage inspires his research and professional work.

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Designing sustainable businesses and cities through research

Athabasca University researchers are helping to meet sustainability needs for today and the future for communities and businesses.

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AU research improves understanding of aquatic health

World Water Day 2022 focuses on the importance of groundwater. Athabasca University research is helping to further this understanding.

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Space weather is difficult to predict—with only an hour to prevent disasters on Earth

Space weather is difficult to predict, with only an hour to prevent disasters on Earth, says Athabasca University space scientist.

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Q&A with Dr. Scott Ketcheson, Canada Research Chair in Hydrological Sustainability

Get to know Dr. Scott Ketcheson, Canada Research Chair in Hydrological Sustainability at Athabasca University.

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Q & A with Dr. Sabine Graf

Athabasca University researcher Dr. Sabine Graf discusses the many projects she's working on that explore how new technology can help support learners.

Science and environment

2024 YR4 won't hit Earth in 2032—but future asteroid impacts are inevitable

Understanding the passion and chemistry of chocolate

‘Plant probiotics’ a possible fix for restoring former coal mine

A chemist’s glimpse at the happiest drink in the world: beer

International space science collaboration helps proton auroras come into focus

AU researchers to explore potential of passive solar greenhouses in the North

AU researcher engineers microbes to detect oilsands pollutants

Exploring the future of architectural education

How microbes can help us protect the environment

A solar eclipse and a black hole can both bend light

April 8 eclipse provides a rare opportunity to witness the sun’s superhot corona

A space scientist's tips for viewing the northern lights

Opinion: Larger and more frequent solar storms will make for potential disruptions and spectacular auroras on Earth

Opinion: Responsible ESG investing in the Global South requires overcoming the Global North’s saviour complex

3 AU researchers to inspire you on Ada Lovelace Day (and all year long!)

Study looks at impact of herbicide on traditional plants in boreal forests

Solving big problems with tiny microbes

Opinion: Migrant workers facing the dangers of wildfires need support

Help solve environmental problems with a career in environmental data analytics

Opinion: Protecting boreal plant species is a critical part of reconciliation efforts

Podcast: Asian heritage in Canada's built environment—why it matters

ChatGPT doesn’t always get it right, but the future of AI is 'so scary and so exciting,’ says AU prof

5 things to keep in mind while picking wild mushrooms

Asian heritage inspires AU architect's work

Protecting food, water, and ecosystems through research and technology

Designing sustainable businesses and cities through research

AU research improves understanding of aquatic health

Study bridges Traditional Indigenous Knowledge, Western science

Space weather is difficult to predict—with only an hour to prevent disasters on Earth

Q&A with Dr. Scott Ketcheson, Canada Research Chair in Hydrological Sustainability

Q & A with Dr. Sabine Graf

Q&A with Mickey Vallee, Canada Research Chair in Community, Identity, and Digital Media

Science grad’s ‘storybook’ journey leads to new career and academic opportunities