Urgent Alert: Phishing attack on the University 

An email scam is targeting University students, faculty, and staff. The messages claim to have control of a user’s computer and have screen or webcam recordings while the user visits adult sites. These malicious actors then attempt to blackmail the recipients by stating they will release the video if they do not receive payment in cryptocurrency. University IT insists the scammers do not have control of the recipients’ computer and are merely spoofing their email and inducing fear in hopes of extorting the victim into reacting quickly and paying. Find a recent example of this email and get more tips and information on fake emails by visiting University IT’s phishing education page. If you receive any suspicious emails, do not respond or click any links or attachments and report the activity immediately to abuse@urmc.rochester.edu.

David Holloway remembered as a prolific and creative scholar

David Holloway, an assistant professor of Japanese and director of the East Asian studies undergraduate program, is being remembered by colleagues as a keen observer of human nature, an accomplished photographer, and a prolific and creative scholar. University flags will be lowered today, July 29, in memory of Holloway, who died on June 25.

Take part in a biomedical data science hackathon

Undergraduates, graduate students, and postdocs are invited to participate in the University’s online biomedical data science hackathon, which will test their ability to make predictions from high-dimensional data. The event takes place August 17 through 22.

University students and trainees at any skill level can work individually or in teams of up to four people. Prizes will be given for better-than-random predictions, and cash prizes will be awarded for first and second place. Register by noon EDT, August 16. Direct questions to andrew_mcdavid@urmc.rochester.edu, matthew_mccall@urmc.rochester.edu, or alarracu@bio.rochester.edu.

Submit your employee tuition waiver

With the fall 2021 semester fast approaching, eligible employees will be able to submit their employee tuition waiver application online through HRMS using the following path: Self Service>Benefits>Tuition>Apply Employee Tuition Waiver. The online application will be live the week of August 16.

Tips for returning to the office

As the world continues to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic and its aftermath, many are facing yet another challenge: going back to the office, often after a year or longer. Take on the transition with confidence with help from the University’s Women’s Network on Monday, August 9, at noon EDT. Learn more and register for the virtual event.

Participate in an HIV vaccine research study

A preventive HIV vaccine may be the world’s best hope of ending AIDS. Consider taking part in an HIV vaccine research study. You may be eligible if you are HIV-negative, healthy, and between the ages of 18 and 50. Being in a study is like donating blood on a regular basis, and it is impossible to get HIV from study vaccines. Volunteers are compensated up to $750 for participation. Learn more online, or call the Rochester Victory Alliance at (585) 756-2329.

This year’s Wilmot Cancer Institute Warrior Walk will take place in person for fully vaccinated participants at Genesee Valley Park on Sunday, September 12, as well as virtually from September 10 through 12. Learn more about the event.

• Dr. Chat Bot: Non–Medical Center faculty, staff, and all students | Medical Center employees
• COVID-19 Resource Center | Medical Center’s COVID-19 update page
• FAQ on COVID-19 vaccination
• What to do if you or your close contacts have symptoms or have been exposed