Science News Roundup: February 2017

Here is the science news, relating to George Mason University and the College of Science for the month of February 2017: 

February 28
Michael Summers makes the connection between Pluto‘s environment and astrobiology
In a NASA article, Pluto is compared to one of Saturn’s moons and attempts to answer, can Pluto sustain life?

February 24
Michael Summers talks about Earth-like exoplanets
Seven new planets were just announced. But wait, there’s more.

Mason researchers find that blood from the Komodo dragon may aide in treating diseases 
February 22: Via Daily Mail
February 22: Via Science Daily
February 23: Via Scimex
February 23: Via Daily Mirror 

February 21
In a story about Pluto’s status as a planet, Mason and others submit a paper to define the word “planet”
Were you one of those people that was devastated to hear the news about Pluto not being a planet? Good news, there may be hope.

February 15
Mason partners with Prince William’s biotech company to develop Zika antibody
With a $50,000 agreement, Mason researchers seek to put an end to Zika.

February 13
Mason scientists worry about link to weather satellites
In an article by BuzzFeed, Jim Kinter describes the impact of the grant with Ligado, a company to test satellites.

Have we missed your student, faculty or alumni news? Let us know, and we’ll include it! As an alumnus/ae, use this Update Your Information form to tell us about your professional and personal activities! Faculty and students, email cosnews@gmu.edu to see your news added to the monthly news roundup and spotlighted by COS social media accounts.