January 2019 – July 2022
With help from the Advanced Light Source, an international scientific team has identified an antibody that neutralizes the COVID-19-causing coronavirus. In a paper published in Nature, the scientists note that the antibody is already moving toward clinical trials. https://newscenter.lbl.gov/2020/05/19/xray-covid19-antibodies/
David Richardson’s job is literally to make sure the light stays on. But it’s not just any light – it’s a very special X-ray light that could play a crucial role in an eventual treatment for COVID-19. Richardson, an ALS operator, is among the essential workers supporting COVID-19 research. https://newscenter.lbl.gov/2020/05/15/masks-on-ready-to-work-meet-the-people-supporting-covid-19-science/
Lab Director Michael Witherell describes how the Lab’s people will gradually return to Berkeley Lab work sites. https://youtu.be/7z-G9C3apms
Reynaldo Viray is one of the custodians who comes to work at the Lab each day, performing essential functions that keep the Lab safe while in standby mode. He is happy to contribute, but he misses the interaction with scientists and students and hopes to see them before he retires in June. https://stratcomm-elements.lbl.gov/2020/04/28/on-site-superstar-reynaldo-viray/
The challenge to raise money for the food banks in Alameda and Contra Costa counties ends tonight at 10. Most of the science areas have surpassed their goal; some need a bit of a push to put them over the top. See how you can help since this is one challenge where everyone wins.
Leticia Ericson of the Lab’s Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action Office discusses the increase in domestic violence that has surfaced as a result of the COVID-19 quarantine, and ways to reduce the risk of harm, in this “Three Questions For” feature. https://stratcomm-elements.lbl.gov/2020/05/06/three-questions-for-leticia-ericson-on-covid-and-increased-family-stress/
For some of us, the COVID-19 pandemic has pushed caregiving for elders or children to the forefront of our lives, which can be stressful. These tips from the All Access ERG and DEI Office can provide resources to help you cope in your role as a caregiver. https://diversity.lbl.gov/2019/11/12/national-family-caregivers-month-tips-for-support-and-building-resilience-november-25-2019/
Director of Employee Assistance Craig Mielcarski discusses the challenges brought about by uncertainty around living life in an era of COVID-19. Learn how to navigate change, develop coping strategies for yourself, and support others. Included are links to resources from the Be Well program. https://youtu.be/jrIE4gfvcIM
Juan Aranda has been a helper from the beginning. He has been a nurse at the Lab for the past two years after ten years as a bedside nurse in San Francisco hospitals. His first career was public health, which provides him with insights into the current pandemic. Read Juan’s advice for staying well. https://stratcomm-elements.lbl.gov/2020/05/04/on-site-superstar-juan-aranda/
Inspired by “friendly competition” among research area teams to raise money for local food banks, the Lab, through the Government and Community Relations Office, will donate an additional $10,000 to the Alameda County Community Food Bank. You can join the challenge. The competition ends Friday. https://stratcomm-elements.lbl.gov/2020/05/03/berkeley-lab-donates-to-alameda-county-community-food-bank/