Staff & Faculty News

Unlocking the Secrets of Tiny, Living Clocks Could Revolutionize Science

February 2, 2026

Biochemistry Professor Andy LiWang has spent much of his career studying how life keeps time. His work on the circadian clock of cyanobacteria — tiny, ancient organisms that share the planet with us — has shed light on one of biology’s most elegant systems. But his newest...

Several hundred UC Merced staff members, seated at tables outdoors, enjoy lunch during Staff Appreciation Week.

News and Notes: Staff Had ‘Rad’ Time During ’80s-Themed Appreciation Week

UC Merced staff members got the time to enjoy the company of their colleagues while being saluted for the tireless work they do to support students, faculty members and the university’s mission...

Craig Harmelin and Suki Spencer are among the first staff members on campus to receive Fulbright awards

New Fulbright Awards Strengthen Campus Study-Abroad Initiatives

Two staff members in UC Merced’s Office of International Affairs have earned prestigious Fulbright awards that will help the campus expand and develop study-abroad opportunities for students...

Coty Ventura steams a graduation gown while her daughter Bobbi assists.

Volunteers Help Make Commencement Memorable for Grads, Families

Early on Mother’s Day morning, Coty Ventura and her daughters Bobbi and Jessica headed to UC Merced to do their part to help make the day special for hundreds of UC Merced graduates and their...

Staff members do the Electric Slide during last year's Staff Appreciation Week picnic.

Party Like It’s the 1980s During Staff Appreciation Week

Get ready to break out your “Flashdance” leg warmers and wear your sunglasses at night: Staff Appreciation Week (SAW) is here, and it’s taking UC Merced back to the ‘80s...

Professor’s Fellowship Allows Renewed Focus on Sociology of Race in South Africa

Professor Whitney Pirtle recently became the first researcher to win the prestigious Ford Foundation Postdoctoral Fellowship while employed at UC Merced — a grant that will help her finish...

Prestigious University Press Signs Professor as Book Series Editor

Interdisciplinary Humanities Professor Arturo Arias was recently selected to edit a series of indigenous-studies books for the State University of New York (SUNY) Press. That makes him the first...

Health Psychology Professor Wins Prestigious Award

The Society of Pediatric Psychology has recognized Professor Deborah Wiebe for her body of research on the psychology of adolescent health. Wiebe, the head of UC Merced’s Health Psychology...

Nominations for 2018 Staff Excellence Awards Due April 20

Do you know a staff member who goes above and beyond to get the job done, provides great customer service or makes a difference in the greater Merced community? If so, consider nominating them for a...

Campus Voices: Join Us in Advocacy for Humanities Research Funding

Besides being a groundbreaking research powerhouse, the University of California is an economic engine for California and the nation, providing an educated workforce and generating new knowledge,...

All News