Cold Case DNA Justice: A Saginaw man, Jason Robert Cabello, was sentenced to 23–45 years for a 2003 murder and sexual assault of Jeanette Wilton, with Western Michigan University’s cold case work and DNA technology helping close the case after more than two decades. Science Policy Watch: A new report warns the Trump administration’s proposed changes to how federal agencies like NIH distribute research funding could shift grant decisions toward political appointees, chilling academic freedom. Public Health & Water: Michigan AG Jeff Jackson backed EPA microplastics research but is pushing for required monitoring in drinking water, citing potential health risks. AI, Cybersecurity: Google says a Chinese-linked hacking group targeted U.S. and Canadian research institutions for more than a year, seeking data tied to defense, AI, unmanned systems, and medical research. Michigan Tech & Industry: Detroit hosted XPONENTIAL, a major autonomy and drone trade show, underscoring the city’s push to attract robotics and uncrewed-systems business. Mobility Tech: Roadzen’s drivebuddyAI won a patent for real-time lane region-of-interest detection, aiming to improve ADAS reliability across road and lighting conditions. Local Governance & Data Centers: Commissioners discussed how a data center moratorium could be implemented, outlining a zoning-amendment process and potential limits on new projects. Food Science: University researchers report insect-based bars can boost attention and engagement during tasting, with physiological measures suggesting people may be more receptive than expected. Education Spotlight: Michigan Tech named Zack Fredin and Laura Sieders as 2026 Distinguished Teaching Award winners, highlighting teaching across engineering and accounting.