Important dates and reminders for December and January regarding monthly paychecks, taxes, your 2016 benefits and more.

On Dec. 7, President Janet Napolitano announced the 2016 recipients of the President’s Research Catalyst Awards, who are focusing on biodiversity, drought, cultural preservation and dark matter.

UC Riverside professors have created a new type of lithium-ion battery anode using portobello mushrooms.

Come enjoy light desserts, cider and the sounds of the UCOP Singers on Friday, Dec. 11 in the Franklin Lobby. There will be three performances, at noon, 1 and 2 p.m.

Let your colleagues entertain you at the UCOP Talent Showcase and enjoy the staff appreciation reception this Thursday, Dec. 10.

UC has joined the Breakthrough Energy Coalition, an influential group of investors led by Bill Gates that is committed to investing in technology that can help solve the urgent energy and climate challenges facing the planet.

Enjoy the food, festivities and camaraderie on Thursday, Dec. 10, beginning at 3 p.m. in the Kaiser Auditorium.

UCOP’s Holiday Crafts Fair takes place on Friday, Dec. 4, from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. This year’s fair features jewelry, home accessories, olive oil and more.

As of Nov. 30, UCPath, the university’s new shared services center that consolidates systemwide payroll, benefits, human resources and academic personnel transactions, is operational for the Office of the President. Here's how to use the new site, conduct the most common transactions and understand your new UCPath paycheck.

Have questions about Open Enrollment? UCOP benefits staff will be on hand to give you answers on Wednesday, Nov. 18, from noon to 1 p.m., in Franklin 12322.

UCOP’s Holiday Crafts Fair comes to the Franklin Building lobby on Friday, Dec. 4. If you're interested in being a vendor, register for a table by Monday, Nov. 23.

Visit the Latino Staff Association's exhibit in the Franklin lobby to mark the Day of the Dead. At noon, make a sugar skull with LaSA and the Crafts Group.