Research News

Agreements provide collaboration opportunities with Poland’s AGH University of Krakow

Washington State University’s Voiland College of Engineering and Architecture has signed new agreements with Poland’s AGH University of Krakow, expanding opportunities for academic collaboration, student and faculty exchanges, and joint research between the two universities.

WSU study explores environmental cost, perceptions of influencer PR gifts

A Washington State University study found that consumers rarely recognize the environmental impact of excessive packaging in influencer PR unboxing videos. The research highlights an opportunity for influencers and brands to promote more sustainable packaging practices and increase consumer awareness.

WSU lab’s work makes nuclear industry safer 

Researchers at Washington State University’s U.S. Transuranium and Uranium Registries (USTUR) are improving radiation safety by studying how plutonium and uranium behave in the human body. Their research supports safer nuclear workplaces, strengthens radiation dose models, and advances international nuclear science.

WSU professor awarded fellow status in international relationship research society

WSU Human Development Chair Kory Floyd has been elected a Fellow of the International Association for Relationship Research (IARR), recognizing his contributions to the study of interpersonal relationships and communication.

Study: Food security varies widely across U.S. ethnic groups

Washington State University researchers found significant differences in food security across U.S. ethnic groups, revealing important disparities that can help inform more equitable nutrition programs and public health policies. The findings highlight the need for targeted approaches to improve food access across diverse communities

Cannabis branding may appeal to youth despite regulations, study finds

Washington State University researchers found that cannabis product branding may continue to appeal to youth despite existing regulations. Published in the International Journal of Drug Policy, the study highlights how packaging design can influence young people’s perceptions and offers insights to help strengthen public health policies and youth marketing regulations.

Electrochemical Society honors WSU scientist for sensor research

Washington State University researcher Praveen Sekhar has received the Electrochemical Society’s Sensor Division Outstanding Achievement Award for pioneering sensor technologies with applications in healthcare, environmental monitoring, and advanced manufacturing. The recognition highlights WSU’s leadership in sensor innovation and engineering research.

Fathers may influence their children’s health before they’re even conceived

Washington State University researchers found that a father’s health before conception may influence the long-term health of future children. Published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, the findings highlight the important role paternal health plays in reproductive outcomes and early disease prevention.

WSU’s Long Term Soil Health Experiment Featured in the Good Fruit Grower

Researchers from Washington State University’s Tree Fruit Research and Extension Center, part of the College of Agricultural, Human, and Natural Resource Sciences, are advancing the Long-Term Soil Health Experiment to better understand how soil management practices influence orchard productivity, soil health, and long-term sustainability. Conducted at the Sunrise Research Orchard, the research is helping tree fruit growers make science-based management decisions.

New master’s degree expands horizons for WSU wine science students 

Washington State University is launching a new Master of Science in Viticulture and Enology at WSU Tri-Cities, providing students with advanced training in grape growing, winemaking, and wine research. The program expands educational opportunities while supporting workforce needs in Washington’s growing wine industry.

WSU model could help track deadly viruses to their source

Washington State University researchers developed a new modeling approach that can help identify the animal origins of emerging viruses. The tool could improve disease surveillance, outbreak response, and efforts to prevent future zoonotic disease transmission by tracing viruses back to their source hosts.

Three WSU students honored with Fulbright awards

Three Washington State University students from the College of Arts and Sciences and the College of Agricultural, Human, and Natural Resource Sciences received Fulbright awards, earning opportunities to conduct research, teach, and engage in cultural exchange abroad. The recognition highlights WSU’s commitment to global learning, academic excellence, and international engagement.

WSU researchers transfer nitrogen-harvesting genes into new strains of bacteria

Washington State University researchers developed a genetic technique that transfers nitrogen-fixing genes into bacteria that previously could not harvest nitrogen. The breakthrough could help reduce fertilizer dependence in major crops by enabling beneficial microbes to provide plants with a natural source of nitrogen.

Unintended consequences: Graphic anti‑smoking ads may nudge people toward vaping

Washington State University researchers found that graphic anti-smoking warnings may unintentionally encourage some smokers to view vaping more favorably when e-cigarettes carry less prominent health warnings. The study highlights how inconsistent messaging across tobacco products can influence perceptions and public health outcomes.

WSU study offers realistic look at the future of sustainable aviation fuel

A Washington State University study provides a realistic assessment of the future of sustainable aviation fuel, examining the economic, environmental, and supply chain challenges associated with scaling production. The research offers insights into pathways that could support aviation decarbonization while highlighting barriers facing widespread industry adoption.