KEYED IN

Welcome to Keyed In, the blog of Sigma Xi, The Scientific Research Honor Society. This will be the go-to place for Sigma Xi members and others to learn about what’s happening in the science and engineering industry. We will share thoughts and perspectives related to Sigma Xi’s mission, including ideas that deal with the health of the research enterprise, integrity in science and engineering, and public understanding of science, as they contribute to improving the human condition. We will give updates about the remarkable work conducted by Sigma Xi chapters, which are spread across the globe. We will report on trends in research and anticipate where the industry is going. And, we will offer advice to young scientists and engineers. Our ultimate goal is to provide useful information that will lead to a more connected and more effective research community.

The CHIPS and Science Act: An Opportunity to Support the Next Generation STEM Workforce Through Policy Change

by Adriana Bankston | May 08, 2023

Last year, the CHIPS and Science Act was signed into law. This important legislation will fund research to help boost U.S. global competitiveness in science and technology. While many articles have been written on the CHIPS and manufacturing side of the bill, a focus on the science-related provisions is necessary. This is especially true when it comes to advocating for “real money” to make programs on the next generation of scientists a reality.
Building the Future of Research: Equity, Internationality, and the Younger Generation

by Nicholas A. Peppas | Apr 25, 2023

In his final letter to members on the Keyed In blog, President Nicholas A. Peppas reflects on his term and the future of the research enterprise.
Women in STEM: Five Things to Remember

by Jason Papagan | Mar 08, 2023

2022 Sigma Xi Fellow June J. Pilcher shares five tips for young women in STEM.
A Girl is Born to Be a Scientist

by Marija Strojnik | Mar 08, 2023

Sigma Xi President-elect Marija Strojnik reflects on her personal journey and the need for young women to continue to pursue STEM careers.
Two Pillars of Modern Science: Translation and Communication

by Nicholas A. Peppas | Mar 07, 2023

In his penultimate letter to members on the Keyed In blog, President Nicholas A. Peppas discusses what it means to shift from a fundamental research approach to a translational approach.
How Science Addresses Important Disease Problems

by Nicholas A. Peppas | Dec 23, 2022

In his letter to members on the Keyed In blog, President Nicholas A. Peppas discusses the strides and new findings in the area of chronopharmacology.
Our Future is Young and Bright

by Nicholas A. Peppas | Dec 23, 2022

In his letter to members on the Keyed In blog, President Nicholas A. Peppas looks ahead to our new IFoRE conference and the next generation of great scientists.
Science is for Everybody and Helps All

by Nicholas A. Peppas | Aug 26, 2022

In his letter to members on the Keyed In blog, President Nicholas A. Peppas answers the question... Who is science for?
Strengthening the Voice of Membership

by Jason Papagan | Jul 21, 2022

Robert Boily reflects on his experience serving on and leading the Committee on Nominations as a representative of the Canadian/International Constituency Group.
A Whole New World of Opportunities

by Nicholas A. Peppas | Jul 01, 2022

In his first letter to members, President Nicholas A. Peppas discusses the importance of convergence and diversity in science, and its role in the inaugural International Forum on Research Excellence (IFoRE).
Multiplying the Sound of Your Own Voice

by Jason Papagan | Apr 26, 2022

Cristina C. Gouin, Sigma Xi's Director of Industry, State, and Federal Laboratories Constituency Group, discusses why she has served in a leadership role for 18 years and why you should consider nomination too.
Of Honor and Honoring

by Robert T. Pennock | Apr 18, 2022

On Sigma Xi's Keyed In blog, President Robert T. Pennock shares a poem that speaks to the spirit of honor and research at Sigma Xi.
Volunteering to Lead

by Jason Papagan | Mar 24, 2022

Dr. Allison C. Augustus-Wallace, Sigma Xi's Associate Director of Research and Doctoral University Constituency Group, discusses why she serves in a leadership role and why you should consider nomination too.
Of Codes and Conduct

by Robert T. Pennock | Feb 23, 2022

On Sigma Xi's Keyed In blog, President Robert T. Pennock opines on the importance of Sigma Xi's code of ethical conduct.
James Webb Space Telescope Joins the League of Super-Telescopes

by Joel Primack | Jan 25, 2022

Former Sigma Xi President and astrophysicist Joel R. Primack explores the highly-anticipated launch of NASA's James Webb Telescope and what it could mean for our understanding of the universe.
Of Seeds and Support

by Robert T. Pennock | Dec 14, 2021

On Sigma Xi's Keyed In blog, President Robert T. Pennock reflects on 100 years of Sigma Xi's Grants in Aid of Research program.
2021 October Madness: Raffle Winner

by Janelle Simmons | Oct 14, 2021

The winner of a Sigma Xi prize package is announced at the conclusion of the 2021 run of October Madness, the Nobel Prize prediction contest.
Of Community and Conversation

by Robert T. Pennock | Oct 12, 2021

On Sigma Xi's Keyed In blog, President Robert T. Pennock discusses two new initiatives to extend the Society’s program to advance science’s ethical culture.
Of Roots and Fruits

by Robert T. Pennock | Aug 17, 2021

On Sigma Xi's Keyed In blog, President Robert T. Pennock discusses his history with the Society's Annual Meeting and the themes of ethics and integrity for this year's conference.
Of Masks and Mistrust

by Robert T. Pennock | Jun 14, 2021

On Sigma Xi's Keyed In blog, President Robert T. Pennock discusses the responsibility of the scientific community to break through barriers that divide us when it comes to trusting vaccines and the science behind COVID-19 recommendations.