Life Sciences Week is Cause to Celebrate and Cerebrate
Freeman Dyson, a physicist and mathematician best known for his work in quantum field theory and nuclear engineering, has shared his passion for math and science in several books and has even provided the basis to writers of Star Trek to provide insight for an episode.
Dyson has also become part of the Rider University community, as a 1985 honorary degree recipient, a member of the Science Advisory Board and supporter of the University’s mission.
“Freeman sees science as a way of empowering people,” explained Jonathan Yavelow, assistant dean of the College of Liberal Arts, Education, and Sciences at Rider. “Over the years we have benefitted from Professor Dyson coming to campus on numerous occasions to talk about topics ranging from various science careers to the origin of life.”
Hoping to bring more attention to the bioscience industry and opportunities throughout New Jersey, Governor Jon Corzine has proclaimed the week from November 17 through 21 to be New Jersey Life Sciences week, in celebration of the state’s role in helping to define the pharmaceutical and life sciences industry.
On Monday, November 17, Dyson, professor emeritus at the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton, will discuss Domesticated Biotechnology from 1 to 3 p.m. in the BLC Fireside Lounge. Dyson’s lecture is one of several featured at Rider during Life Sciences Week.
The week, themed Growing Life Sciences in the Garden State, is organized by Bio-1 and is designed to raise awareness of the bioscience industry, promote science programs at universities and colleges, and encourage both students and career-changers to pursue professions in the thriving life sciences field. A number of events are being held across various university and college campuses.
The events are geared toward students, faculty and staff members and the general public.
“There are a lot of exciting employment opportunities in the biotech industry that range from basic research to marketing,” Yavelow said. “We also believe that a solid background in science and critical thinking skills can be applied to any career and will benefit all students.”
The events scheduled on Rider’s Lawrenceville campus will include:
- Monday, November 17
Freeman Dyson, professor emeritus, Institute for Advanced Study
Domesticated Biotechnology
1 to 3 p.m., Fireside Lounge in the Bart Luedeke Center - Monday, November 17, and Wednesday, November 19
Phillip Lowrey, assistant professor of Biology at Rider University, will open up his class from 9:10 to 10:10 a.m. on both days in the Science and Technology Center, Room 201. He will focus on Biochemistry of Cellular Metabolism. - Tuesday, November 18
Jonathan Yavelow, assistant dean of Rider’s College of Liberal Arts, Education, and Sciences, will open up one of his classes to the general public from 6:45 to 9:45 p.m., Science and Technology Center, Room 102. Genetics and Biotechnology for Non-Scientists will give an overview of drugs that are a product of biotechnology, including human growth hormones and genetically engineered insulin. - Thursday, November 20
Ann Marie Hill, executive director, New Jersey State Commission for Cancer Research, will give a cancer research update and its possible impact on cancer survivors during an information session from 4 to 6 p.m. in the Science and Technology Center, Room 112.
Life Sciences Week at Rider University will also highlight the University’s graduate level Teacher Certification program and will feature recent graduates who have made the switch from the science industry to teaching. An information session for scientists considering entering the teaching profession will be held at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, November 19, in the Sweigart Board Room on the second floor of Sweigart Hall. Please e-mail Jamie Mitchell at jmitchell@rider.edu to preregister for this session. Throughout the week, prospective teachers can also schedule to visit high school classrooms to see what the teaching experience is like. Please e-mail Jean Kutcher for more information at jkutcher@rider.edu.
