The College of Arts and Sciences welcomes new faculty for 2026-27

Twenty new faculty have joined the College of Arts & Sciences this year, strengtheningdepartments and programs with their wide-ranging expertise and filling numerous leadershiproles for the College and university.

Around Cornell

Device gives first view of animal brain activity in the field

Researchers will be able to track the brainwaves of animals as they move in natural habitats and interact with each other – complex behaviors that have been impossible to study in the lab.

AI reveals new class of cellular ‘off switch’ linked to cancer pathways

Cornell researchers have used artificial intelligence to uncover a previously unknown way cells control how proteins move inside them, a process essential for growth, communication and movement, and one that is often disrupted in cancer.

Environmentalist photographer kicks off A.D. White Professors-at-Large series

James Balog will discuss his work documenting the worldwide rapid retreat of glaciers on Sept. 17 as part of the visiting professors program.

Cornell leads project putting robots to work in US orchards

A Cornell-led research project is developing robots that can perform labor-intensive orchard operations; it’s supported by a four-year, $7.5 million grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Specialty Crop Research Initiative. 

Wrinkled or smooth? Cell growth mechanics determine shape of plant organs

This discovery could help engineer living materials into different forms, such as the custom of growing bridges from roots in India, and breeding kale so it’s smooth instead of crinkly. 

Medina Tovar joins Weill Institute to study cellular evolution, pathogenesis of fungi

Edgar Medina Tovar joins the Weill Institute for Cell and Molecular Biology and the College of Arts & Sciences as an assistant research professor in September. He will begin as an assistant professor in January 2027.

Around Cornell

Lab of Ornithology to host annual Migration Celebration

Celebrate birds with a fun-filled day of free workshops, presentations, bird walks, and more at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology on Sept. 12 from 10 a.m to 3 p.m.

Folic acid does not elevate formaldehyde in mice and humans

Folic acid does not elevate toxic formaldehyde in the body, according to a new study on mice and human cancer patients who consumed high doses.