In collaboration with Nature PEI, Dr. Michael van den Heuvel’s laboratory at UPEI has engaged in the first study using environmental DNA (eDNA) to determine the presence or absence of three rare species of mussel and one group of host fish, river herring, in PEI’s freshwater rivers.

With biodiversity threatened around the planet, scientists are continually seeking easier ways to monitor biodiversity. In recent years, they have used environmental DNA or eDNA—traces of genetic material shed by organisms into the environment—to determine what lives in that environment. 

If we learned anything as a society in the last two years, it's how to better appreciate the little things in life.

Yes, the UPEI Women's Hockey Panthers can no longer contend for a national medal, but in many ways, Saturday's win was worth more than gold, silver, or bronze.

Dr. Adam Fenech, associate professor in the School of Climate Change and Adaptation at the University of Prince Edward Island, is featured in a recently published book titled Inspiring Canadians: Forty Brilliant Canadians and Their Visions for the Nation.

People give back for a variety of reasons – to make a difference, because it feels good, because they feel a sense of duty, to name a few. But 15-year-old Eva MacNeill likes to give back so she can pay it forward.

“Others have given me so much, whether it’s been their time, support, or guidance, that I wanted to find a way to help others,” explains MacNeill.

Every week, UPEI Athletics and Recreation recognizes two student-athletes for their achievements and dedication to their respective sports. The UPEI Panther Subway Athletes from March 14–20 are Bailey MacIsaac (track and field) and Elijah Miller (men’s basketball).

MacIsaac didn’t skip a beat after deciding to return for her fifth year with UPEI’s track and field program in December. At the AUS Championships last weekend, the 60-metre specialist captured a silver medal with a sprint time of 7.77 seconds.

UPEI raised $11,254.62 for the Canadian Cancer Society, surpassing its goal of $10,000, during its annual Relay for Life, which was held virtually this year because of COVID-19. 

The student-led virtual event, which took place on March 20, included various activities, including the luminary ceremony. Cancer survivor Jessica Perry, a UPEI nursing student, gave a moving speech. The participants also played games and watched a musical performance by Hailey Ahern, one of the student executive committee members, and her grandfather.

UPEI’s basketball teams gave fans plenty to cheer for this weekend, as they put on a show at the AUS Championship in Halifax.