News and updates for faculty and staff

Nurse hanging an IV bag

Mission Cancer + Blood now part of UI Health Care

Mission Cancer + Blood is officially part of UI Health Care. The two entities announced in October that they would join forces to tackle Iowa’s elevated cancer rates and create a comprehensive cancer care network. Mission patients will continue to receive high-quality oncology care at more than 20 locations across Iowa, now with the help of UI Health Care’s resources and National Cancer Institute-designated cancer center.

Azeez Butali

UI professor recognized by White House for research on cleft lip, palate

Azeez Butali, the Gilbert E. Lilly Professor of Diagnostic Sciences in the UI College of Dentistry, was awarded the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers by the White House, the highest honor the U.S. government bestows on scientists and engineers. Butali is one of the world's leading experts on understanding the genetics of cleft lip and palate, especially in African populations. 

People at an exercise class

UI study finds physical activity reduces chronic disease risk

UI researchers are recommending all patients be surveyed about their physical health during medical appointments. A new study, led by Lucas Carr, associate professor in the Department of Health and Human Physiology, found patients who reported the highest level of physical activity were at a significantly lower risk of having 19 chronic conditions.

Cory Gundlach

Stanley Museum of Art curator bringing expertise to African Studies Program

Cory Gundlach, curator of African art at the UI Stanley Museum of Art, is the new director of the African Studies Program, which provides research, teaching, and learning opportunities about African history and contemporary life. In this interview, Gundlach shares his vision for the African Studies Program and how the museum’s world-renowned African art collection plays an important role.

Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration of Human Rights poster

Take part in MLK’s Celebration of Human Rights Week

Jan. 20 is Martin Luther King Jr. Day and the first day of the university’s annual Celebration of Human Rights. The university holiday allows faculty, staff, and students to engage in celebrations and events within the community. Check out the upcoming service projects and other student-organized events to celebrate the week ahead. All events are free and open to the public.

Jonathan Allen and Kara Kehe

Then and now: From UI students to teaching the next generation of Hawkeyes

Some Iowa faculty have been Hawkeyes since day one. The university’s social media team recently featured some of our faculty’s “then and now” photos, from their time as undergraduate and graduate students at Iowa to their current roles as faculty. Check out this gallery to see how faculty members changed over the years.

Staff Council lockup

Staff Council recap: HR updates, Dance Marathon, and more

At the January Staff Council meeting, University Human Resources provided an update on career pathways and development and shared well-being updates. The group also received an update on the upcoming Dance Marathon, which takes place Feb. 7–8. Read more about the meeting.

In the know: More news, information, and resources

  • Nominate someone for Excellence and Achievement Among Women awards: Nominations are being accepted for the Excellence and Achievement Among Women awards. More details on each award’s criteria and deadline can be found online.
  • Nominations open for Outstanding Teaching Assistant Awards: The Council on Teaching is accepting nominations for the Outstanding Teaching Assistant Awards now through Feb. 26. Awards will recognize work done during the 2024 spring, summer, and/or fall semesters.
  • Recognize exceptional individuals with honorary degree nominations: Nominations are now being accepted for honorary degree recipients for the 2025-26 academic year. If you know someone who should be recognized for their extraordinary achievements, submit materials to provost-office@uiowa.edu by May 1.
  • Nominate faculty for Michael J. Brody Award: The Michael J. Brody Award for Faculty Excellence in Service recognizes faculty who have made exceptional contributions to the university and community. One to three recipients will be chosen this year, and nominations are due by Friday, Feb. 7.
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