Taking a close look at the neural systems of mantis shrimp, top arthropod predators of the coral reef, researchers led by Nick Strausfeld at the University of Arizona and Gabriella Wolff, now at the University of Washington, discovered brain structures that — according to textbook wisdom — shouldn't be there.

Harvard University today announced the results of the annual election of new members to the Board of Overseers. The new Overseers were elected for six-year terms. They were chosen from a slate of eight candidates, who were nominated by a Harvard Alumni Association committee as prescribed by the election rules. Degree holders cast 27,725 ballots in the election.

The primary function of the Board of Overseers is to encourage the University to maintain the highest attainable standards as a place of learning.

Congratulations to Rebekah Keating, Lilian Patron, and Meaghan Torvund for receiving top graduate student awards. Rebekah received the Service Award, Lilian received the Scholarship Award, and Meaghan received the Teaching Award. A description of each award is as follows: