To the Stars: Physics Alum Builds a Career in Rocket Propulsion

UC Davis alum Roderic Vanderscoff always had his eyes on the stars. His love for space exploration was forged in his youth, informed by penchants for stargazing and science fiction, and conversations with his grandfather, an aerospace engineer who worked on the Apollo program. Today, Vanderscoff is following in his grandfather’s footsteps.

In Memoriam – Konstantinos Papamichael

We are deeply saddened by the passing of Professor Konstantinos “Kosta” Papamichael, a visionary researcher, educator, and leader in the field of daylighting design and founder of the California Lighting Technology Center at UC Davis.

In Memoriam: Mariel Vázquez

With deep sorrow we report the news of the passing of Mariel Vázquez on July 5, 2026, at the age of 55. Mariel was an esteemed applied mathematician and an internationally recognized member of the scientific community.

Artist Cassils Appointed to Maria Manetti Shrem Endowed Chair in Art Studio

Renowned performance artist Cassils has been appointed to the Maria Manetti Shrem Endowed Chair in the Maria Manetti Shrem Art Studio Program at the University of California, Davis. Cassils is a Canadian transgender artist who makes their own body the material and protagonist of powerful performances that examine the histories of LGBTQI+ violence, representation and struggle while illuminating narratives of resilience and empowerment.

From Eras Tour to Classroom: Teaching Taylor Swift as Literature

“Folklore and Fairytales: the Literary Words of Taylor Swift” is a one-unit first-year seminar that treats Swift’s songwriting as a serious object of literary study, incorporating readings, discussions, creative analysis, and, of course, listening sessions. The course is open to all undergraduates, with preference given to first-years, and is offered through the Office of Undergraduate Education.