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Revisiting Past Lectures on the 30th Anniversary of the Ashtekar Frontiers of Science

Exploring Scientific
Progress Over Time

In this celebration of 30 years of the Eberly College of Science’s public-facing preeminent winter lecture series, we look at how science has changed over the passage of time, including updates, breakthroughs, and how research fields have evolved. This anniversary year will look back at past topics, including updates from some speakers, as well as look ahead to the new advancements and future prospects of the impactful research in the college and across Penn State.

A member of the audience asking a question during the Q and A part of a presentation.
Free Public Lectures

Saturday mornings January 27 through March 2, 2024, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Most lectures will be held in Berg Auditorium, 100 Huck Life Science Building. The February 17 and March 2 lectures will be held in 100 Thomas Building.

A person putting a validated parking pass in the kiosk so he can exist the parking deck.
Where can I park?
Chris Keating and Phil Bevilacqua.

“Before Cells: How the Components of Life Might Have Come Together”

January 27, 2024

Christine Keating and Phil Bevilacqua

Joel Leja and Michael Eracleous.

“Surprises at the Dawn of Time from James Webb: A First Look at the First Stars, Galaxies, and Black Holes”

February 3, 2024

Joel Leja and Michael Eracleous

Nikki Crowley and Andy Ewing.

“Signaling Between Cells in the Brain: Bridging the Past and Present of Neuroscience at Penn State with New Tools and New Questions"

February 10, 2024

Nikki Crowley and Andy Ewing

Richard Alley and Charles Anderson

“Finding the Good News on Climate and Energy"

February 17, 2024

Richard Alley and Charles Anderson

Morteza Kayyalha and Nitin Samarth.

“Going Beyond Classical Computers"

February 24, 2024

Morteza Kayyalha and Nitin Samarth

Gabriela Gonzalez and Abhay Ashtekar.

“Einstein, Gravitational Waves, Black Holes and Other Matters"

March 2, 2024

Gabriela González and Abhay Ashtekar

empty classroom 101 thomas

Ashtekar Frontiers of Science Newsletter

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The Pennsylvania State University encourages qualified persons with disabilities to participate in its programs and activities. If you anticipate needing any type of accommodation or have questions about physical access provided, please email sci-comm@psu.edu in advance of your participation or visit.

The University is committed to equal access to programs, facilities, admission, and employment for all persons. It is the policy of the University to maintain an environment free of harassment and free of discrimination against any person because of age, race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion, creed, service in the uniformed services (as defined in state and federal law), veteran status, sex, sexual orientation, marital or family status, pregnancy, pregnancy-related conditions, physical or mental disability, gender, perceived gender, gender identity, genetic information, or political ideas. Discriminatory conduct and harassment, as well as sexual misconduct and relationship violence, violates the dignity of individuals, impedes the realization of the University’s educational mission, and will not be tolerated. Direct all inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policy to the Affirmative Action Office, The Pennsylvania State University, 328 Boucke Building, University Park, PA 16802-5901; Email: aao@psu.edu; Tel: 814-863-0471.

U.Ed. SCI 21-21