December 6, 2023

Announcing the Research and Innovation Office

The Office of the Vice President for Research has changed its name to the Research and Innovation Office (RIO). The new name reflects the University of Minnesota’s increasing role as a global research powerhouse solving complex problems and creating innovations that positively impact people's lives.

New Minnesota earned sick and safe time program goes into effect Jan. 1

Starting Jan. 1, the University will provide all employees working in Minnesota, including student workers, paid time through the earned sick and safe time (ESST) program. Separate from current sick time programs, ESST is additional time employees can use when they are sick, to care for a sick family member, to seek assistance if they or their family member has experienced domestic abuse, or if there is a work, school, or childcare closure that prevents them from being able to work.

COVID-related emergency leave ending

The University’s emergency paid leave for COVID-19 will end on Dec. 31. Employees will have up to 30 days to retroactively request COVID leave for dates on or before the end date. After the emergency paid leave ends, eligible employees who need time off for a COVID-related illness should work with their supervisors and local HR representatives to use other existing benefits related to sick leave.

Medica to replace Fit Choices program

The Medica Fit Choices gym reimbursement program is ending on Dec. 31. Current Fit Choices program users will be able to receive a $20 reimbursement through December 2023. Medica is replacing Fit Choices with a Life Time Digital Fitness Program membership at no extra cost starting Jan. 1. Learn more about the change and other fitness options available to you.

Safety of Minors program changes

The Safety of Minors program has recently transitioned to be housed within Health, Safety and Risk Management, located in the Thompson Center for Environmental Management. Additionally, the Safety of Minors program has launched a new website, and the required Safety of Minors training via Training Hub has been updated to reflect policy changes and comprehension checks.

New study highlights COVID-19’s adaptive strategy for infection

Researchers have discovered a novel mechanism whereby the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19, can vary its mode of infection in human cells. The researchers found that the virus can alternate between being highly infectious and avoiding detection by the immune system. This understanding is vital for grasping the virus' impact during the pandemic and for predicting its potential evolutionary developments.

Offering plant disease expertise to the public

From oak wilt on a backyard tree to commercial farms, the U of M Plant Disease Clinic offers expertise to people around the region as they confront complex plant health issues and make decisions to keep their growing practices healthy and sustainable in the future.

Making MRIs accessible to all

Recent biomedical engineering graduate Efraín Torres focused his PhD research on making MRI technology more affordable and more accessible. He is now working with U of M Technology Commercialization to protect his intellectual property, explore commercialization opportunities, and launch a startup called Adialante, which offers affordable, silent, and compact MRI systems.

Research Brief: School-based mental health services can improve the well-being of children and adolescents

The mental health of young people across the U.S. is suffering: rates of anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges remain high, and suicide is the second-leading cause of death. A U of M study has found that school-based mental health services offered by some school districts can improve the well-being of children and adolescents. See additional recent Research Briefs.