Lecturer's Union Agrees to Contract With Michigan

It is reported in an article today in annarbor.com that LEO has approved a new contract with the University of Michigan. The agreement had been reached in early August, but this final vote, which came in 99 percent positive, was the final step in the process.

GM to Invest in Michigan Battery Company Spinoff

GM is planning to invest $3.2 million in Michigan spin-off Sakti3. The company makes lithium-ion batteries that can be used in cars and portable devices, and has also received $1 million from Japanese investment firm Itochu Technology Ventures.This is part of an ongoing effort by GM to invest in new car technologies, as well as partner with the University of Michigan.

A Look at Michigan's North Campus Research Complex

An article in the Detroit Free Press today takes a look at the new North Campus Research Complex at the University of Michigan. It provides an interesting breakdown of the UM is looking to do with the campus, and what areas will be the focus of research.

The NCRC will also add a business transfer office to help spinoff companies develop, and hopefully capitalize on their innovations. All in all, the NCRC is expected to employ 2,000 to 3,000 people.

PETA Files Claim Against Michigan for Use of Animals in Nurse Training

According to an article in the Detroit News today, PETA has filed a formal complaint against the University of Michigan for using live cats and pigs in nurses survival flight training. Michigan claims there is no alternative to live tissue in this training, and nurses need this kind of training. PETA claims that Michigan already uses simulators for its other similar programs, and has found them to be superior.

Most schools don't use live tissue in training. In 2009,the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine asked the USDA to investigate UM's use of dogs in the trauma center, which has been discontinued.

Michigan Researchers Develop Laser to Jam Missiles Fired at Helicopters

Researchers at Michigan have developed a new laser designed to jam tracking devices of missiles fired at helicopters. The laser is said to be effective up to 1.8 miles away. Most laser systems are unable to operate on helicopters because the helicopter vibrates heavily, but this laser does not have that problem.

Some Thoughts on Michigan's Win

We've all heard the talk about Michigan's big win on Saturday against UConn. Everybody seems to be talking about it. However, some of the faithful aren't convinced.

However, some people are cautiously optimistic.

This raises an interesting question, because last season Michigan started 4-0 only to miss a bowl game, winning only one of their remaining games. So, heartbreak is familiar to Michigan fans in the Rich Rodriguez era.

But, the team looked good Saturday. Most of the units were able to do their job well. But some questions remain about what is carrying the team. Denard Robinson had a record breaking performance against UConn, but can he continue to turn in those kinds of numbers every game, and will the other units give him the backup he needs? Only time will tell, but the next game against Notre Dame should be interesting.

Group Led by Michigan to receive $12.5 million to Develop Clean Energy

In an article today in Crain's Detroit Business, it is reported that the University of Michigan has received $12.5 million from the U.S.-China Clean Energy Research Center to conduct research on vehicle electrification technologies.

Michigan, MSU, Wayne State Partnering for Film Institute

In an article today in the Detroit Free Press, there is another discussion of the brain drain that has been effecting the state of Michigan in recent years. Only this time, it's about what people in the state are doing to fix it. MSU, Michigan, and Wayne State have teamed up to create a film institute, designed to give aspiring film makers at the schools a chance to work on their projects, and allow them to stay in the state, instead of moving to the coasts. The project has been seen as a general success, and produced a film this summer. There are already plans to continue it next summer.