FoldIt: Protein Folding Game

Foldit is a challenging, fun, protein folding game. The number of different ways even a small protein can fold is astronomical because there are so many degrees of freedom. Figuring out which of the many possible structures is the best one is regarded as one of the hardest problems in biology today. Foldit attempts to predict the structure of a protein by taking advantage of humans' puzzle-solving intuitions and having people play competitively to fold the best proteins.

By playing the game, you also contribute to important scientific research. The Foldit team, from the University of Washington Departments of Computer Science & Engineering and Biochemistry, is collecting data to find out if humans' pattern-recognition and puzzle-solving abilities make them more efficient than existing computer programs at pattern-folding tasks. If this turns out to be true, Foldit can then teach human strategies to computers and fold proteins faster than ever!

Tech Tools for Schools

Technology Tools for Schools Resource Guide provides definitions of key technology components and relevant examples, where appropriate as a glossary for educators. The guide also presents essential implementation and infrastructure considerations that decision makers should think about when implementing technology in schools. Technology
enhances administrative, teacher and student capabilities and performance, especially for those students who lack access to technology outside of school. Join the online discussion and share your examples at the supporting wiki.

Science Policy/Public Affairs Webinar

Communicating Science Primer: An AIBS policy staff publication that helps scientists better understand and work with reporters. Available at the AIBS bookstore.

Undergraduate and graduate students, as well as early career professionals in science, often contact the American Institute of Biological Sciences seeking information about alternate science careers. A growing number of individuals are interested in careers that allow them to apply their scientific skills to the resolution of societal problems. A common area of interest is science policy/government relations/public affairs. Public Policy staff of AIBS will host a 90-minute webinar on December 21, 2009, to:

- Provide information about employment options in science policy and public affairs;
- Provide tips to help interested students and early career professionals develop the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in the policy/public affairs sector; and
- Help participants determine whether this career path is right for them.

To register, go to the webinar page.