Have you ever thought about what it takes to keep people safe during a crisis or emergency? Have you ever considered a career that involves protecting and serving others? If so, then the field of Public Safety and Emergency Management might be perfect for you! Public Safety and Emergency Management is a fascinating field of study that focuses on preventing, preparing for, responding to, and recovering from emergencies and disasters. From natural disasters like hurricanes and earthquakes to man-made emergencies like terrorist attacks and industrial accidents, this field covers it all. One interesting aspect of this field is the use of technology to improve emergency response. For example, drones are now being used to assess damage after hurricanes, and virtual reality is being used to train emergency responders for various scenarios. Academically, this field is constantly evolving, with new research and innovations being developed all the time. Some notable academic figures in this field include Dr. Dennis S. Mileti, who has written extensively on disaster preparedness and response, and Dr. Lucien G. Canton, who has worked in emergency management for over 30 years. At the undergraduate level, students can expect to take courses in emergency management, disaster response, and crisis communication. There are also opportunities for further specialization, such as in areas like cybersecurity or public health emergency management. Graduates of this field can pursue a range of careers, including emergency management director, disaster response coordinator, and public safety analyst. Key industries for prospective future employment include government agencies, hospitals, and private consulting firms. Notable employers include the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the American Red Cross, and the United Nations. To succeed in this field, it's important to have strong communication and leadership skills, as well as the ability to think critically and make decisions under pressure. A passion for helping others and a desire to make a difference are also key attributes. In short, if you're looking for a field of study that is both challenging and rewarding, Public Safety and Emergency Management might be just what you're looking for!

Electricity is a fundamental part of modern life, but could too much of it be harmful? Understanding the movement of electric charges and resulting electromagnetic radiation is key to answering this question. While some radiation, like UV light and X-rays, can be dangerous, most of the radiation emitted by human technology, such as mobile phones and household appliances, is harmless. However, some studies have suggested possible long-term harm from constant exposure to weak electromagnetic radiation. The debate surrounding this issue highlights the importance of reliable scientific studies and responsible communication of findings. Learning about the effects of electromagnetic radiation can help students make informed decisions about their technology use and contribute to ongoing scientific research.

From the dizzying heights of tightrope walking, we can learn the secrets of balancing and defying gravity. Sonja Harpstead, a tightrope instructor in New York, explains that posture is the key to success, and lowering your center of gravity towards the wire is crucial. By understanding the physics of the human body, tightrope walkers use rotational inertia to keep their balance and carry a long balancing pole to lower their center of gravity even further. Beyond entertainment, research in this area could have healthcare implications, including detecting early muscle degradation in elderly patients and building strength and balance with physical therapy exercises. Take a step into the physics of tightrope walking today!

How can urban planning decisions impact health? A new tool evaluates factors like green spaces and air pollution to assess potential health effects.

Think cold weather is only dangerous in extreme conditions? Think again. Research from the University of South Wales shows that even mild temperatures like 10°C can have a profound impact on the heart, lungs, and brain. Explore the science behind cold environments and their effects on the body in this eye-opening experiment.

Waste management is an essential aspect of public health, and it has a long and fascinating history. From ancient Roman public latrines to modern wastewater treatment plants, the evolution of toilets and sewage systems has been pivotal in preventing the spread of dangerous microorganisms that cause cholera, dysentery, and typhoid. Learning about the history of waste management is not only intellectually stimulating but also practically important for understanding the importance of proper sanitation. While modern toilets have a wide range of features, billions of people around the world still lack access to proper sanitation facilities, putting them at risk of disease. By studying the history of waste management and developing new sanitation technologies, we can address the behavioral, financial, and political issues that produce inequity throughout the sanitation pipeline and improve public health for all.

From toxic leaks to microplastic pollution, scientists are exploring how pollutants affect human health. Exposomics is a new field that aims to understand our exposure to chemicals and their impact. Carmen Marsit, a molecular epidemiologist, is leading the charge to measure our exposure to chemicals and their breakdown products in blood. Learn how scientists are using gas chromatography, liquid chromatography, and mass spectrometry to identify the chemicals we are exposed to and the potential health risks associated with chronic exposure.

Did you know that even electric vehicles produce harmful pollution from tyre wear? According to a new briefing paper by Imperial College London’s Transition to Zero Pollution initiative, six million tonnes of tyre wear particles are released globally each year, with potentially negative effects on biodiversity and human health. While research and innovations dedicated to tackling fuel emissions have been increasing, the environmental and health impacts of tyre wear have been neglected. The researchers call for more investment in tyre wear research to fully understand and reduce their impacts, including particle capture technologies, new advanced materials, and efforts to reduce vehicle weight.

Scientists have developed a simple and low-cost method to break down almost a dozen types of "forever chemicals" known as PFAS, which have contaminated virtually every drop of water on the planet and are associated with certain cancers and thyroid diseases. By using a chemical guillotine and common solvents and reagents, they severed the molecular bonds in PFAS, gradually nibbling away at the molecule until it was gone, leaving behind only safe byproducts. This breakthrough could eventually make it easier for water treatment plants to remove PFAS from drinking water.

Discover the secrets behind the remarkable hydrodynamic performance of shark skin and how it's inspiring the design of bioinspired robots and materials!

Get an inside look into the physics of freestyle skiing and snowboarding! Discover how professional skiers create lift-off force and control their rotational momentum mid-air to execute their incredible feats of manoeuvrability. Explore the challenges of incorporating twisting and learn about the crucial role of posture in executing aerial tricks. Join us in uncovering the secrets of landing safely after these jaw-dropping stunts.

Decades after nuclear testing, downwinders are still experiencing the devastating effects of radioactive fallout. As the possibility of a return to testing looms, National Geographic explores the impact of the U.S.'s atomic age and the risks of a new nuclear arms race.

Are you fascinated by the natural world and want to explore the mysteries of the universe? Then the study of Natural Sciences might be the perfect fit for you! Natural Sciences is a broad field of study that encompasses a wide range of scientific disciplines, including biology, chemistry, physics, geology, and astronomy. It is an interdisciplinary field that seeks to understand the natural world and the laws that govern it. One of the most appealing aspects of studying Natural Sciences is the opportunity to make groundbreaking discoveries that can change the world. From the discovery of penicillin by Alexander Fleming to the development of the theory of relativity by Albert Einstein, Natural Sciences has produced some of the most significant innovations in human history. And with new technologies and research methods emerging every day, the possibilities for future discoveries are endless. At the undergraduate level, students can choose from a variety of majors and modules that allow them to specialize in a particular area of Natural Sciences. For example, a biology major might focus on genetics or ecology, while a physics major might specialize in astrophysics or quantum mechanics. And for those who want to take their studies even further, graduate programs in Natural Sciences offer a wide range of research opportunities and specialized areas of study. But what can you do with a degree in Natural Sciences? The answer is almost anything! Graduates of Natural Sciences are highly sought after in a variety of industries, including healthcare, technology, energy, and environmental science. Some of the most notable employers in these industries include NASA, Tesla, and the World Health Organization. To succeed in Natural Sciences, you need to have a curious mind, a passion for discovery, and a strong foundation in math and science. You should also be comfortable with experimentation and problem-solving, as these are the skills that will help you make groundbreaking discoveries and contribute to the advancement of human knowledge. So if you're ready to explore the mysteries of the universe and make a difference in the world, consider studying Natural Sciences. It's a field that offers endless possibilities for discovery and innovation, and it's sure to be a rewarding and fulfilling career path.

Did you know that the oldest glue in the world is over 8,000 years old and comes from a cave near the Dead Sea? Ancient people used this glue, made from a mixture of animal bone and plant materials, to waterproof baskets and construct utensils. Today, we have enough types of tape and glue to build and repair almost anything. But have you ever wondered what gives glue and tape their stickiness? Adhesives can be made from synthetic molecules or natural proteins and carbohydrates. In order to work, glue and tape need both adhesive bonds and cohesive bonds. Glue is stronger than tape in terms of absolute strength of adhesive bonds, but no single adhesive works well in all circumstances. Engineers weigh similar factors all the time. Choosing the right glue to withstand the heat inside an engine is a matter of life and death. And though the strength of duct tape's adhesive bonds can't compete with those of epoxy glues, tape does have the advantage of instantaneous stickiness in an emergency. Learning about adhesives can help you understand how things are constructed and repaired, and can even save lives in certain situations.

Water is one of the most fascinating substances in the universe. Every molecule of water on Earth has existed for billions of years, cycling through rocks, air, animals, and plants. Water doesn't follow the normal rules of chemistry, expanding when it freezes and floating on itself, enabling complex life to survive on our planet. Hot water freezes faster than cold, and water molecules can float upwards, against the force of gravity. This strange behavior has been very useful, allowing oxygen and nutrients to reach the edges of our brain and plants to move water from deep below the ground to nourish their leaves. Our solar system is drowning in water, and where there's water, there could be life. Learning about the properties of water can help students appreciate the remarkable nature of this colorless, featureless, and tasteless substance that breaks so many rules of chemistry.

Are you someone who thrives in high-pressure situations and takes pride in helping others during times of crisis? If so, a career in Disaster Response Planning may be the perfect fit for you. Disaster Response Planning is a field dedicated to preparing communities and organizations for natural disasters, accidents, and other emergency situations. This field is critical in ensuring that people and property are protected during times of crisis, and it requires individuals who are quick-thinking, organized, and passionate about making a difference. As a Disaster Response Planner, you'll work to create plans and strategies for emergency situations that may arise. You'll work with government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private companies to develop plans that are tailored to the specific needs of each community or organization. You'll also work to educate the public about emergency preparedness, and you'll coordinate with first responders and other emergency personnel to ensure that everyone is on the same page when a disaster strikes. In addition to developing emergency plans, Disaster Response Planners may also specialize in areas such as risk assessment, hazard mitigation, or crisis management. They may work in a variety of settings, including local government offices, non-profit organizations, or private consulting firms. To become a Disaster Response Planner, you'll typically need at least a bachelor's degree in a related field such as emergency management, public administration, or environmental science. Some popular undergraduate programs and majors include Emergency Management, Homeland Security, and Disaster Science. Helpful personal attributes for this field include strong communication skills, the ability to work well under pressure, and a passion for helping others. You'll also need to be comfortable with technology, as many Disaster Response Planning tools and strategies rely on advanced software and data analysis. Job prospects for Disaster Response Planners are strong, as there is a growing need for professionals who can help communities and organizations prepare for emergencies. Some notable employers in this field include the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), the American Red Cross, and private consulting firms such as Tetra Tech and Dewberry. In the long term, Disaster Response Planning is a field that will continue to be in high demand. As climate change and other factors contribute to an increase in natural disasters and emergencies, the need for skilled professionals who can help communities and organizations prepare will only continue to grow. So if you're looking for a career that combines your passion for helping others with your love of problem-solving and strategic planning, Disaster Response Planning may be the perfect fit for you.

Plastic is a synthetic polymer that has completely changed our world. It is lightweight, durable, and can be molded into almost any shape. Unfortunately, plastic has saturated our environment, invaded the animals we eat, and is finding its way into our bodies. Plastic takes between 500 and 1,000 years to break down, yet we use it for things meant to be thrown away. 40% of plastics are used for packaging, and since its invention, we have produced about 8.3 billion metric tons of plastic. 79% of it is still sticking around, and a lot ends up in the ocean, where it outweighs all the fish. Microplastics, pieces smaller than 5 millimeters, have been found in honey, sea salt, beer, tap water, and in the household dust around us. While there is little science about the health risks associated with microplastics, it is safe to say that we have lost control over plastic to a certain extent, which is kind of scary. By learning more about plastic, we can take steps to reduce its impact on our environment and our health.

Medical Physics is an exciting and rapidly developing field that lies at the intersection of physics, engineering, and healthcare. It involves the application of physics and mathematics to the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and disorders, as well as the development of new medical technologies and devices. Medical physicists work in hospitals, research centers, and private industry, and they play a critical role in improving patient care and outcomes. As a medical physicist, you might work on developing and testing new imaging technologies like MRI and CT scans, or you might design and implement radiation therapy treatments for cancer patients. You might also be involved in ensuring the safety and accuracy of medical equipment and procedures, such as ensuring that radiation doses are delivered precisely to the target area. One of the most appealing aspects of a career in Medical Physics is the opportunity to make a real difference in people's lives. For example, medical physicists working in radiation therapy help to design treatments that can target cancer cells with greater accuracy, reducing side effects and improving patient outcomes. Similarly, medical physicists working in imaging can help to develop new techniques that provide better diagnostic information to doctors, leading to earlier and more accurate diagnoses. To become a medical physicist, you typically need a strong background in physics, mathematics, and computer science, as well as specialized training in medical physics. Popular undergraduate programs for aspiring medical physicists include physics, engineering, and applied mathematics. Many medical physicists also pursue graduate degrees in medical physics, which provide specialized training in the field. Medical Physics offers a wide range of potential areas of specializations, including diagnostic imaging, radiation therapy, and nuclear medicine. Medical physicists may also work in related fields such as health physics, biomedical engineering, and medical informatics. Personal attributes that are helpful for a career in Medical Physics include a strong attention to detail, excellent problem-solving skills, and a passion for science and healthcare. Good communication and interpersonal skills are also important, as medical physicists often work closely with doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals. Job prospects for medical physicists are generally quite good, with demand expected to grow as new medical technologies are developed and implemented. There are many potential employers in both the public and private sectors, including hospitals, research centers, medical device manufacturers, and government agencies. Some notable examples of potential employers include the National Institutes of Health, the American Cancer Society, and the International Atomic Energy Agency.

Are you aware that over 2 billion people globally drink water contaminated with disease-causing microbes? Stanford University and SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory have developed a low-cost, recyclable powder that can kill thousands of waterborne bacteria per second when exposed to ordinary sunlight. This discovery could be a significant breakthrough for the nearly 30 percent of the world's population without access to safe drinking water. The results of their study are published in Nature Water.

Plastics are everywhere, and most of them never biologically degrade. This is a major problem for our environment, as plastic waste pollutes natural ecosystems for centuries. Fortunately, there are microbes that may be able to help us solve this growing problem. Scientists have discovered bacteria, also known as plastivores, that contain enzymes capable of breaking down PET polymers, a common type of plastic. However, we still need ways to biologically degrade all the other types of plastic, including abundant PEs and PPs. Researchers are looking for more heat-tolerant plastivores in the planet's most hostile environments and engineering better plastivorous enzymes in the lab. As students, you have the opportunity to learn about this important issue and contribute to finding solutions. By exploring the science behind plastic degradation, you can gain a deeper understanding of how to protect our environment and create a more sustainable future.