Milestones in Science: April 2025

As we celebrate our 50th anniversary, we look back at the milestone achievements that shaped scientific exploration at Rice. We recognize great educators, and we highlight ongoing work that continues to push boundaries and honor the legacy of those who paved the way. 

Milestones in Science: Celebrating 50 Years of Discovery at Rice

Bonnie Bartel

Illuminating a Cellular Mystery

Imagine looking into a cell and discovering a structure no one had seen before — something hidden in plain sight for decades. That’s exactly what happened in Bonnie Bartel’s lab, where researchers uncovered a surprising complexity within peroxisomes, organelles once thought to be simple sacs. Their breakthrough revealed dynamic internal vesicles, reshaping our understanding of cellular metabolism. This discovery has far-reaching implications, even linking plant peroxisomes to human disease research.

Learn how it happened
INVESTIGATING COMPLEXITY IN GENETICS AND CELL BIOLOGY

With clues from classical genetics, Rice biologists redefined how we see the inner workings of cells. From molecules to organisms, our researchers continue to reveal the hidden wonders of life. Read on for some of their remarkable stories.

SHAPING MINDS FOR TOMORROW

Historic milestones and today’s innovative research remind us that discovery thrives alongside education, and we proudly celebrate those who have transformed how future scientists learn and lead.

Frank Jones

Frank Jones: Unwavering commitment to students

Frank Jones ’58 ’61 has shaped generations of students with his enthusiasm, humility, and teaching excellence. As he prepares to retire after seven decades at Rice, his legacy as a beloved mathematics professor and mentor endures.

Discover how it came together

Acknowledgement

This work was made possible with support from the Fondren Fellows program.