How research funding solves real-world problems
The University of California, Davis, has launched a website and video series titled, “From Labs to Lives,” to highlight federally funded research, describe how the research benefits the public, and share the consequences to the public if funding is reduced or eliminated.
The website features video interviews with UC Davis faculty on both the Davis and Sacramento campuses; a downloadable one-pager or “flashcard,” describing each featured researcher’s work; downloadable fact sheets about the power of federal investments in medicine, science and engineering; as well as a research brief about each federal agency’s impact on the university.
Among the first researchers featured are Leigh Ann Simmons, Ramsey Badawi, Stuart Cohen, John Conway, Theanne Griffith and Koen Van Rompay. More researcher interviews and flashcards will be added regularly each week.
Interdisciplinary research at UC Davis builds the region’s economy, supporting $2 billion in California economic activity and nearly 10,000 jobs. It supports 1,290 active patients, spurred 119 startups in the last decade, and resulted in $15 million in annual licensing, royalties and fees.
UC Davis research contributes to solving global problems and keeping the United States as the world leader in technology and innovation. For example, this work is evident in the collaboration to study emerging health threats, how to feed a growing global population, and the discoveries made possible by UC Davis science and engineering research.
“From Labs to Lives” is created and produced by the Office of Strategic Communications, in collaboration with the Office of Research and Government and Community Relations
See below for how our L&S researchers describe the impact of their work, and the consequences if federal support for this cutting-edge research were reduced or eliminated. Check out the ongoing "From Labs to Lives" series here.
John S. Conway, Ph.D.
Department of Physics and Astronomy
High-Energy Particle Physics
Exploring the fundamental forces of nature with DOE backing
Understanding the smallest particles in the universe helps unlock some of the biggest mysteries in physics. At UC Davis, Professor John S. Conway leads cutting-edge research in experimental high-energy physics, supported by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). Conway and his team study fundamental forces, search for new particles, and push the boundaries of our understanding of matter and energy.
Helping humanity
Professor Conway’s research has contributed to groundbreaking discoveries, including the Higgs boson and the top quark, helping shape modern physics. As principal investigator of UC Davis’s collider physics group, he leads a team of researchers working on experiments that reveal the fundamental laws of the universe. Without continued federal funding, progress in particle physics could slow, limiting new discoveries that deepen our understanding of nature.
"The money that the U.S. is spending is not going to bureaucrats in offices. It’s going to people working in laboratories all over the United States.”
— John S. Conway, Ph.D.
Nicholas Pinter, Ph.D.
Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences
UC Davis Center for Watershed Sciences
Natural Hazards & Disaster Risk Reduction
NSF-funded research on natural disasters and water systems
Floods, earthquakes and climate-driven disasters are increasing in frequency and impact, making it critical to understand and mitigate these risks. At UC Davis, Nicholas Pinter, professor of Earth and planetary sciences, leads NSF-funded research on flood hazards, river systems and landform evolution. His work combines field studies, data analysis and policy engagement to improve disaster preparedness and sustainable water management.
Helping humanity
Pinter’s research helps communities better respond to natural disasters, reducing risks to people and infrastructure. By studying how rivers and landscapes change over time, his work informs smarter floodplain management and resilience strategies. Without continued NSF funding, progress in disaster prevention and water resource sustainability could slow, leaving communities more vulnerable. Sustained investment ensures science-driven solutions continue to protect lives and the environment.
U.S.-based research has been an engine for innovation and economic growth. And until now, we never thought that things could unwind so quickly. So right now, we’re looking at the threat of a sudden turning off of that engine. And people will see how incredibly quickly the economic growth and the technical innovation wind down when the ignition on that engine is turned off.”
— Nicholas Pinter, Ph.D
Brian Trainor, Ph.D.
Department of Psychology
Social Stress and Brain Function
NIH-funded research on stress, social behavior and mental health
Chronic stress can lead to anxiety, depression and social withdrawal, but the biological mechanisms behind these effects remain unclear. At UC Davis, Brian Trainor, professor of psychology, leads NIH-funded research examining how stress alters brain function and behavior. His lab studies how stress changes how hormones work in the brain, and how these changes affect behaviors related to mental health disorders. The goal is to discover new treatments for disorders such as PTSD.
Helping humanity
Trainor’s work is uncovering how chronic stress influences social function, which is often impaired in individuals struggling with anxiety and depression. By understanding how the brain adapts to stress, his research could lead to new strategies for building resilience and improving mental well-being. Without continued NIH funding, progress in this field could slow, delaying the development of new cures. Sustained investment ensures that research continues to advance treatments for stress-related mental health challenges.
The students doing the research go on to get jobs in medicine, biotechnology, research and education. If laboratories shut down, these training opportunities will be eliminated.”
— Brian Trainor, Ph.D.
The "From Labs to Lives" series originally appeared on the UC Davis website.
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