A UC Davis incubator for environmental research -- the John Muir Institute of the Environment -- will hold an open house from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 25, in the lobby of Kerr Hall. The institute, formed a year ago, offers faculty an opportunity to develop new research projects and secure grants, says Bob Flocchini, a land, air and water resources professor who specializes in air-pollution research. Named after the Scots-born American naturalist, the institute will draw upon the know-how of more than 100 campus researchers in multiple disciplines to address increasingly complex environmental problems. Both UC Davis Chancellor Larry N. Vanderhoef and Provost and Executive Vice Chancellor Robert D. Grey will speak at the event. Examples of institute projects will be on display. The institute is advised by the campus Commission on the Environment and administers the Tahoe Research Group as well as other multidisciplinary centers. Editor's note: Reporters seeking interviews with Flocchini are advised to arrive a few minutes early if possible.