A Quantum Leap at a Time: In Memory of Bruce D. Hammock

 

The legendary UC Davis Distinguished Professor Bruce Dupree Hammock (1947-2026), internationally recognized for his scientific research in chemistry, toxicology, biochemistry, entomology and human health, died Jan. 5, 2026 at age 78. A 45-year member of the UC Davis faculty, he was an elected member of the National Academy of Sciences and the National Academy of Inventors, among other honors.

In Support of Science

 

More than 1,218 members of the National Academy of Sciences (NAS), including 61 Nobel laureates and 46 recipients of the National Medal of Science, have signed a letter urging Congress to reject the FY26 science budget cuts that threaten U.S. leadership in science, health, and national security. The letter was delivered on July 16, 2025. The link to the video is at https://youtu.be/Vkv0vI6jCnM.

UC Davis-Discovered Enzyme Inhibitor Targets Obesity

 

Consuming too much added sugar can increase the risk of chronic diseases such as Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, obesity, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, high blood pressure, and some cancers, according to scientific research.

Now newly published research shows that a key regulatory enzyme inhibitor discovered in the laboratory of UC Davis distinguished professor Bruce Hammock can alleviate inflammation linked to health issues that are caused by a high-sugar diet.

Walter Leal Praises 'Bee Team' During His Faculty Distinguished Research Award Lecture

 

“Just like in a honey bee colony, it takes a team to win an award.”

So commented UC Davis distinguished professor Walter Leal, recipient of the UC Davis Academic Senate’s 2024 Faculty Distinguished Research Award, when he delivered his seminar at the Academic Senate’s recent research award lecture luncheon in the UC Davis Conference Center.