A new research collaboration between New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT), Louisiana State University (LSU) and University of Florida is set to launch the first evolutionary study of the unique pelvic structure and walking mechanics of blind cavefish (Cryptotora thamicola) — the only living species of fish known capable of walking on land similarly to four-limbed mammal and amphibian vertebrates, or tetrapods.

A group of 11th graders traveled from their chemistry class at Dwyer Technical Academy in Elizabeth, N.J. to the center of atoms and molecules.

Eager to explore this foreign dimension environed by electron orbits, the voyagers clutched atoms, felt them vibrate and got up close and personal with particles as they morphed into molecules. The students assessed radioactivity trends and learned the difference between solids, gases and liquids — and were back in time for the next class period. 

Zhi Wei, associate professor of computer science at Ying Wu College of Computing, developed a research proposal that earned him a $50,000 Adobe Digital Experience Research Award.