Since the big bang, the early universe had hydrogen, helium, and a scant amount of lithium. Later, some heavier elements, including iron, were forged in stars. But one of the biggest mysteries in astrophysics is: How did the first elements heavier than iron, such as gold, get created and distributed throughout the universe? A new answer has come from an unexpected place - magnetars.

For four straight years in a row, LSU has soared in research. In the 2023-2024 academic year, LSU's research campuses in Baton Rouge, New Orleans, and Shreveport achieved a record-breaking $543 million in combined research activity. Not only did this lead to life-changing discoveries and support thousands of jobs--the direct economic impact of LSU research on Louisiana is higher than ever, estimated at $1.5 billion.

Each year, LSU's Office of Research & Economic Development honors the exceptional research and scholarship of two LSU faculty as Distinguished Research Masters.

LSU and Battelle Energy Alliance, the company that manages Idaho National Laboratory (INL), have agreed to collaborate in areas of mutual interest, including cybersecurity and advanced nuclear technology, under a memorandum of understanding, or MOU.

The Westminster Kennel Club has named Sara K. Lyle, associate professor of theriogenology at the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine, the recipient of its fourth annual Veterinarian of the Year Award.

Dr. Nick Mason, Assistant Professor and Curator of Birds at Louisiana State University Museum of Natural Science, has been awarded the highly competitive National Science Foundation CAREER Award.