The University of Pennsylvania has joined a group of leading research universities to launch Futurity (www.futurity.org), an online research channel covering the latest discoveries in science, engineering, the environment, health and more. Penn is one of 35 founding partners supporting the site, which offers direct access to research news posted by Penn and other universities.
Futurity provides the public with direct access to research breakthroughs by combining visual elements and lay explanation with links to published reports and supplemental materials that allow readers to explore topics in more detail. The site, designed to encourage interaction, is available in a mobile-friendly version, and visitors can comment on stories and sign up for a daily e-mail updates.
“With news holes shrinking, Futurity allows major research universities to build a bridge between the academic community and the public,” Steven J. Fluharty, vice president for research at Penn, said. “The site provides both the casual reader with an interest in science — as well as the seasoned researcher or science journalist — with quick access to a comprehensive and varied body of national research.”
Futurity cofounder Michael Schoenfeld, vice president for public affairs and government relations at Duke University, says the site serves another vital role. It allows the public to see how federal, state and private funding are being put to use by universities to address critical challenges.
Organised into:
- Earth & Environment
- Health & Medicine
- Science & Design
- Society & Culture
You can browse, search or opt to receive email alerts or RSS Feeds on a range of fascinating topics. Did you know:
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Lego is being used to visualise Nanotechnology
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Spotted hyenas perform better than primates on cooperative problem-solving tests
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The age of first drink is linked to alcoholism
