The NAU Review — Meet the influencers of the Cretaceous Era + making an impact at Meteor Crater

Feb. 18, 2025

The NAU Review. The official news source for Northern Arizona University.

Art of sauropods walking through a forest in the Jurassic era.

The original Cretaceous influencer

Just how much did dinosaurs 65 million years ago affect the Earth as we know it? A lot, and NAU researchers just discovered one more way. New research led by ecoinformatics professor Chris Doughty shows that the evolution of fruit—and the evolution of fruit-eating primates, the early ancestors of humans—was influenced by the “ecosystem engineering” of large sauropods.

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Andrew Sanchez Meador and a student measuring forest growth.

NAU achieves Carnegie R1 research designation

The designation is the highest classification for research institutes in the United States and is a reflection of NAU’s efforts to do top-tier research while preparing students to enter the constantly shifting workforce.

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A view of Meteor Crater with blue sky and clouds

How to study Mars … on Earth

Did you know that one of the best preserved impact craters on the planet is 20 miles from NAU? And it’s now a classroom. Designed by associate professor Mark Salvatore, the class Impact Cratering @ Meteor Crater allows planetary science students to get up close and personal with Mars-like craters without leaving northern Arizona.

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Celebrate National Muffin Day with a tasty treat

Here’s a recipe that will have everyone begging for more. They are soft and moist, and the crumble topping adds the perfect level of sweetness. Plus, it’s super easy to make them vegan!

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Louie dancing on the pedway: #AskNAU: What music did you grow up with?

‘One good thing about music, when it hits, you feel no pain’

So says reggae icon Bob Marley. For Black History Month, NAU faculty and staff shared their musical influences. Are your favorites on the list? Watch the video and find out!

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