|
Hello, CBS Student,
As we move through November, the quarter’s pace quickens—midterms are wrapping up, projects are building momentum, and the promise of a well-earned break is on the horizon. It’s a time to pause, reflect, and practice gratitude—for the people, experiences, and opportunities that shape CBS and our community of biology scholars.
This week, we invite you to take a moment to honor the service and sacrifice of our veterans. We are grateful for the many members of our UC Davis community who have served, and we thank you for your dedication and leadership. Reflecting on their service reminds us that thankfulness shows up in many forms—through connection, community, and shared moments.
Looking ahead to Thanksgiving—or Friendsgiving—and a much-needed break, remember that gratitude and science often go hand in hand. A Thanksgiving meal, as seen under a microscope, reveals an intricate world of complex structures and chemical patterns. From starch-filled potato cells to the crystalline beauty of gravy, even familiar foods—cranberry pictured below—tell a story of biology, chemistry, and connection. You can explore this fascinating view of Thanksgiving science in this Wired article.
| |
As we approach the end of the fall quarter, we encourage you to share gratitude with your mentors, classmates, and friends—and to take time for rest and renewal. Whether you’re gathering with loved ones, hosting a Friendsgiving, or simply enjoying a quiet moment, we hope you find connection and curiosity in equal measure.
______________
Your CBS Undergraduate Deans,
Mark Winey, Michele Igo, Helen Frasier, and Ebony McClain
| | |
______________
It's in The DNA ...
| | | |
Open 11/13: Winter 2026 HRE Registration
Registration for Winter 2026 Health-Related Experiences (HREs) open on Thursday, November 13, 2025. Through HREs, students can explore various specialties in human health, gain exposure to professional healthcare environments, develop practical skills and make industry contacts. For registration timeline details visit the HRE Portal and for overall program info visit the Career Center’s HRE site.
| | | |
Did you hear? Recanzone Lab recognized with a 2025 Lab Safety Award
Safety Services has recognized six UC Davis labs across various schools and colleges for their strong safety emphasis and their actions to Think Safe. Act Safe. Be Safe. From CBS, this year's winner is the team from Dr. Gregg Recanzone's lab where researchers study age-related hearing loss, focusing on how the brain functions differently as it ages. Kudos to the Recanzone Lab!
| | | |
Mentor Check-In: Gratitude in Motion
As you prepare for the Thanksgiving break, take a moment to check in with your BioLaunch mentor or mentee. A quick message, conversation, words of encouragement, or a helping hand are meaningful ways to reflect on what you’re grateful for and how you’ve grown this fall. Whether you’re reconnecting with friends or spending time with family, gratitude—like mentorship—reminds us that we’re all part of something larger than ourselves.
| | |
______________
What's in a Leaf? CBS students map the chemistry of campus plants
| During the 2025 spring quarter, CBS students began cataloging plant metabolites in the UC Davis Arboretum and Public Garden as part of a new Course-based Undergraduate Research Experience (CURE) course. Taught by Philipp Zerbe, a professor of plant biology, and postdoctoral scholar Farida Yasmin in Zerbe’s lab, the course had two broad aims: to give students the chance to engage in real research using cutting-edge technologies, and to kickstart a database showcasing the vast diversity of natural plant products on campus. |
| | |
Calling Summer and Fall Graduates:
All about Fall 2025 Commencment
Fall Commencement is on Saturday, December 13, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. at the University Credit Union Center. Registration for undergraduates will close Monday, December 1, at 11:59 p.m.
REMEMBER: To officially graduate, you must file an online graduation application for the term in which you will graduate.
| | | |
Bio Bonds:
How Alumni Giving Benefits YOU!
CBS Aggies who came before you are rooting for your success — and they’re putting their money where their heart is. Thanks to alumni giving, you get access to scholarships, student activities, and awesome resources like BioLaunch, Health Professions Advising, the ASUCD Pantry, and the UC Davis Career Center. Their support = your success! Take advantage!
| | |
______________
Be a Biologist!
| |
What are YOU Researching?
The Fred Hutch Summer Undergraduate Research Program (SURP) is an intensive, nine-week internship for undergraduates entering the summer before their final year of study. It's designed to provide research experience and mentorship for students interested in biomedical research. With a faculty mentor, interns will complete an independent research project and present their findings at a competitive poster session.
| |
Dreaming of a career in healthcare?
Health Professions Advising is here to guide and support all UC Davis students and alumni every step of the way! From choosing the right classes to preparing for exams and crafting a standout application, HPA’s expert advisors are your go-to free resource for success. With a wide range of workshops, test prep sessions, and personalized advising, there’s something for everyone at HPA, because your future in the health professions starts with the right support.
| |
What are OTHERS Researching?
Inside our cells are tiny engines that supply the energy to sustain life. Unfortunately, each year, roughly 1.6 million people worldwide are born with genetic diseases that disrupt these tiny cellular engines. James Letts, CBS associate professor of molecular and cellular biology, investigates how mitochondrial protein machines power life—and how understanding them could lead to new treatments for disease.
| | | |
Health Professions Test Prep
Preparing for the MCAT, PA-CAT, DAT, or another standardized exam for health professional schools? Health Professions Advising has you covered! Join our free test prep sessions and workshops designed to help you master study strategies, build effective timelines, and sharpen your test-taking skills with practice questions. Whether you’re just getting started or deep into review, HPA is here to help you study smarter and feel confident on exam day.
| | | |
Wellness Corner: Sipping away Stress
Drinking tea can calm stress through the calming and mind-focusing amino acid L-theanine, the stress-reducing effects of certain herbs like chamomile and lavender, and the mindful ritual of preparation and consumption. Additionally, tea's moderate caffeine content can create a feeling of "calm alertness" instead of jitters, while antioxidants in some teas may help reduce inflammation in the brain. What to know more or find some tea relief tips for your stress?
| | | |
November Quick Question:
We want to hear from you! What career paths are you most interested in pursuing after graduation? Your responses help us learn more about the post-graduation goals of CBS undergraduates and shape the resources we share to support you.
October Quick Question Results:
How interested are you in getting involved in research during your time as a CBS undergraduate?
82% - said they are very interested
| | |
______________
Options and Opportunities
| |
CBS Student Bulletin
UPDATED: 11/10/2025
CBS faculty and staff are really connected. Throughout the year, we receive a plethora of internship and job postings you may not find on Handshake. Bookmark the CBS Bulletin page and check back regularly.
| |
Career Center News
Want all of your options at your fingertips on a regular basis? Check out and subscribe to the Career Center's Health & Biological Sciences Newsletter for all of the upcoming events and tips on using Handshake!
| | |
______________
Questions or comments?
You are a part of the CBS community, and the reason for The DNA! Send your questions, ideas, and submissions for future issues to Assistant Dean Helen Frasier at: hsfrasier@ucdavis.edu.
| | |
The Deans' News and Announcements (The DNA) is a monthly electronic newsletter for undergraduate students in the College of Biological Sciences.
The DNA is published by the CBS Dean’s Office.
| | | College of Biological Sciences | Dean's Office Advising 1023 Katherine Esau Science Hall | Davis, CA 95616 US | | | | |
