Our science departments are committed to creating and disseminating new knowledge in their fields by combining research and teaching. Our 300 faculty members—including fellows of many learned societies and academies—are engaged in research that spans a broad range, from questions about the foundations of quantum mechanics, to the development of cancer cells and the workings of the brain, to work resulting in the spin-off of high-technology companies. Faculty share their excitement about their research with their students, training them to become part of the next generation of scientists who will push the frontiers of human knowledge. Explore majors, minors, concentrations, and academic programs in the Natural Sciences.
News from Natural Sciences
All news »
We Love Our Supporters
Gifts to the College of Arts and Sciences can help our students make the most of their college careers. To do this, CAS needs your support. Your contributions help us ensure that teaching, research, advising, mentoring, and support services are fully available to every student. Thank you!
World-Class Faculty in the Natural Sciences
Thien Nguyen
Associate Professor of Computer Science
Thien Nguyen is an expert in natural language processing, or the ability of artificial intelligence to understand, interpret and generate meaningful human language. He aims to enable computers to perform cognitive language-related tasks. His lab is among the first to develop deep learning algorithms for information extraction and text mining in natural language processing and data mining. His research on using natural language processing for multilingual learning earned him a Faculty Early Career Development Program (CAREER) award from the National Science Foundation.
Nguyen's recent research focuses on programming computers to improve the efficiency and safety of large language models (LLMs) across human languages while extracting valuable information about events like natural disasters, cyberattacks, disease outbreaks, and protests from news articles and other sources. His work seeks to deliver useful insights from diverse data and make these technologies accessible in low-resource languages that lack adequate data sets for training AI models.
Tien-Tien Yu
Associate Professor of Physics, Institute for Fundamental Science
Tien-Tien is a theoretical particle physicist working at the interface of theory and experiment. She is particularly interested in understanding the nature of dark matter, whose existence is known through its gravitational effects on ordinary matter. She co-founded the SENSEI collaboration, an experiment utilizing silicon chips, much like those found in digital cameras, to search for dark matter. She was recently appointed to P5, an advisory group convened once a decade by the Department of Energy and National Science Foundation to help determine the next funded projects in particle physics.
On Jan. 14, 2025, Yu was one of nearly 400 scientists and engineers to receive the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers, the highest award the US government awards to early career scientists.
A founding member of the group Particles for Justice, Yu is also a leader in advancing diversity, equity and inclusion in the physics field. In collaboration with the Comics and Cartoon Studies program, Yu created the UO Science and Comics Initiative. Read more about the initiative here.
Santiago Jaramillo
Associate Professor of Biology, Institute of Neuroscience
Santiago Jaramillo leads a research group dedicated to understanding how the brain processes and interprets sounds. Using advanced techniques to monitor and manipulate neural activity in mice, along with computational approaches, he investigates how the brain filters, learns, and assigns meaning to sounds and how brain disorders can affect these processes. His interdisciplinary work, supported by the BRAIN Initiative of the National Institutes of Health and the National Science Foundation, includes collaborations with psychologists, bioengineers, theoretical neuroscientists, and linguists, with the long-term goal of developing neural interfaces to improve human-to-human and human-to-machine communication.
Beyond the lab, Jaramillo is deeply committed to broadening participation in STEM. He provides hands-on neuroscience experiences to middle school girls through the SPICE program, serves as an advisor for international programs engaging young minds in scientific critical thinking, and mentors college students from a wide range of backgrounds through programs such as NSF STEP-UP, SPUR, and the ESPRIT scholarship for aspiring K-12 science teachers.
School of Computer and Data Sciences
The mission at SCDS is to empower a diverse population of students and faculty working to advance knowledge in computer and data science, train the next generation of scholars, and engage with the wider world to tackle interdisciplinary challenges.
To do this, we start by applying our knowledge and experience at home across the University of Oregon campus.
Research in the Natural Sciences
Natural scientists use data to understand, predict, and work with naturally occurring phenomena on earth and in the universe. From highly controlled experiments in the lab to observations collected in the field, our findings help make sense of the natural world while driving advancements in society and technology that touch everyone. By expanding the limits of human knowledge, we provide a scientific foundation for helping people live better, longer lives.
2024-2025 Sponsored Research in Natural Sciences
Between July 2024 and June 2025, researchers in CAS received $83 million to fund 199 research projects, including approximately $75 million in Natural Sciences. The research projects, which span divisions and fields of study, represent CAS's commitment to curiosity, discovery, and innovation.
Explore Other Majors and Minors in the College of Arts and Sciences
Meet our Dean
Welcome to the natural sciences, where our top-flight researchers bring students in to experience the biological, physical, and computational sciences. Working side-by-side with faculty who are equally committed to student success and scientific discovery, students learn valuable critical thinking skills through hands-on research in the lab, field, and classroom—from studying marine biology at the Oregon Institute for Marine Biology on our beautiful campus on the coast to coding advanced systems and analyzing complex data in the School of Computer and Data Science.
The research we’re conducting at the UO makes a tangible difference in our communities, our nation, and the world. For example, our chemists are pioneering the materials and techniques that will inspire the next generation of batteries for energy storage. Our psychologists are developing and testing cutting-edge interventions to improve mental health and wellbeing. Our geologists and environmental scientists are collaborating with governments, tribes, and industry partners to protect communities from earthquakes and wildfires.
You may or may not end up in a science career, but either way these experiences will change the way you experience and interact with the world. A healthy society depends on people who know how to gather evidence and critically analyze data. No matter what field you enter, scientific thinking will help you become a more thoughtful, engaged, and critical citizen in modern society.
We’re excited to explore the natural world with you.
Elliot Berkman
Divisional Associate Dean, Natural Sciences
Happening at CAS
April 6 through 10 is Graduate-Professional Student Appreciation Week, and we're celebrating the UO's graduate and law students with events, activities, and giveaways. See what's happening below, and check out our Graduate-Professional Student Appreciation Week webpage for more details.
All Week
- Free professional headshots (hosted by the Division of Graduate Studies)
- Prize wheel for COE graduate students (hosted by the College of Education, HEDCO's Student Academic Services Office)
- Free coffee for SOMD students (hosted by the School of Music and Dance)
Monday, April 6
- 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. Free refreshments for all graduate and law students (hosted by the Division of Graduate Studies, Graduate Student Lounge, Susan Campbell Hall 111)
- Noon - 12:45 p.m. Free Pilates-yoga class for graduate students (hosted by PE and Rec, Woodruff Gymnasium, 220 Gerlinger Hall) - Register in advance
Tuesday, April 7
- 8:30 - 10 a.m. Knight Campus and collaborating departments and institutes coffee and treats (hosted by the Phil and Penny Knight Campus for Accelerating Impact, First Floor Forum, Knight Campus Building 2)
- Morning. Coffee and hot chocolate for law students (hosted by the School of Law)
Wednesday, April 8
- Morning. Doughnuts for Ducks for COE graduate students (hosted by the College of Education, HEDCO Courtyard)
- Noon - 12:45 p.m. Free Pilates-yoga class for graduate students (hosted by PE and Rec, Woodruff Gymnasium, 220 Gerlinger Hall) - Register in advance
- Noon - 1:00 p.m. College of Design graduate student showcase and social (hosted by the College of Design, Hayden Gallery)
- 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. Free button-making table for all graduate and law students (hosted by the Craft Center and the Division of Graduate Studies, Graduate Student Lounge, Susan Campbell Hall 111)
Thursday, April 9
- 9 - 11 a.m. Free coffee and pastries for all graduate and law students (hosted by the Knight Library, GradSpace, Knight Library 148)
- 2:30 - 4:30 p.m. Free button-making table, plant giveaway, and refreshments for all graduate and law students (hosted by the Division of Graduate Studies, Graduate Student Lounge, Susan Campbell Hall 111)
- 2:30 - 4:30 p.m. Reception for CAS graduate students (hosted by the College of Arts and Sciences, Tykeson Hall)
Friday, April 10
- UO Summit for Sustainable Organizations. Ten free tickets available for graduate and law students (email summit.so@uoregon.edu to request your free ticket)
- 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. Free coffee if you wear your UO Ducks gear (hosted by Duck Store, Flagship Campus Location in Eugene)
- Noon - 2:00 p.m. Free rock painting with the Craft Center (hosted by the Craft Center, Erb Memorial Union, Oregon Plaza by the O Desk)
- 2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Grad student networking: Like to mingle? Let’s play bingo! (hosted by the Office of the Vice President for Research and Innovation, Willamette Hall Atrium) - RSVP by April 6
Saturday, April 11
- UO Summit for Sustainable Organizations. Ten free tickets available for graduate and law students (email summit.so@uoregon.edu to request your free ticket)
Find daily ways to engage your career curiosity with workshops, local industry tours, alumni panels & networking events, the Spring Career & Internship Expo (4/16), and Practice Interview Day (4/17) that will help you develop skills and connections on the road to career readiness. For a full list of workshops, career tours, networking events, resume reviews, alumni panels, and more, visit career.uoregon.edu/events or register for events in Handshake. Why wait?! Stop by the University Career Center in Tykeson Hall-Garden Level ASAP to get drop-in resume reviews and other career guidance to make the most of your Career Readiness Week!
The University Career Center offers a special thanks to our Spring 2026 Career Readiness Week sponsor: Enterprise Mobility!
FULL LIST OF EVENTS!
Resume Extravaganza (Drop-In Resume Reviews) Wednesday, April 8th, 11am-4pm, Tykeson Hall Commons (1st Floor) Did you know you can have someone review your resume before the Career & Internship Expo? Drop in any time to get feedback on your resume. Don’t have a resume? Come learn how to make one!
Spring Career Closet Pop-Up Thursday, April 9th, 12pm-3pm, EMU Redwood Auditorium (214) Make a first impression that reflects your awesomeness! Browse through new and gently used business casual and professional clothes, and curate a FREE interview-ready outfit!
Career Tour: Healthcare Friday, April 11th, 8:45am-1pm, meet at Ford Alumni Center (RSVP on Handshake Required! Space Limited!) Thinking about a career in healthcare? Have we got a Friday morning for you! Hop on the bus and let’s go explore McKenzie-Willamette Medical Center in Springfield for a behind-the-scenes tour and Q&A with healthcare leaders just for UO students!
Building your Network: LinkedIn & Beyond (Workshop) Friday, April 10th, 2pm-2:45pm, Tykeson Hall Garden Level 50P (University Career Center-Conference Room) Learn how to build meaningful professional connections, both online and in person. We’ll cover how to create or update your LinkedIn profile, reach out for informational interviews, and make the most of networking opportunities at the UO and beyond.
Curious about the Career & Internship Expo (Virtual Info Session) Monday, April 13th, 12pm-1pm via Zoom (Register in Handshake) Learn the ins and outs of navigating the in-person Career & Internship Expo, updating your Handshake profile, researching employers, and how to present yourself authentically during the expo.
So, You want to learn about Grad School (Workshop) Tuesday, April 14th, 2:30pm-3:15pm, Tykeson Hall Garden Level 50P (University Career Center-Conference Room) Whether you are just exploring or already researching programs, this workshop will help you make sense of your options. We will break down different types of degrees, how to find and compare programs, and what to expect in the application process so you can move forward with clarity and confidence.
Your Future in Tech + Connect (Networking) Tuesday, April 14, 4pm-6pm, EMU Crater Lake Rooms Join us for a special industry-connection night dedicated to helping you get career ready for your future in Tech. Participate in small group networking with tech professionals and alumni to get advice on career-building opportunities and connections.
Interviewing Strategies for Success (Workshop) Wednesday, April 15th, 12pm-12:45pm, Tykeson Hall Garden Level 50P (University Career Center-Conference Room) Learn how to prepare with confidence, answer common (and tricky) interview questions, and communicate your strengths clearly. We will also share helpful tools and resources you can use before your next interview.
Opportunity Hub (Panel + Networking) Wednesday, April 15th , 3:30pm-5pm, EMU Crater Lake Rooms (146) Following panel from 3:30pm-4pm, Grab a snack and rotate through casual small group chats with alumni, professionals, and employers to learn more about their companies (like Nike, Pinterest, Teach for America and more!), career paths, and get advice about how to find career-building opportunities and connections for your future.
Job Shadow Day Interest Meeting
Wednesday, April 15th, 4pm-5pm, Tykeson Commons Come learn about Job Shadow Day happening on May 15th and how getting outside your comfort zone for one Friday with mystery mentors can jumpstart your career exploration!
BizCareers: Internships Spring into Fall Ready (Panel + Networking) Wednesday, April 15th, 5:30-8pm, Lillis 182 & Atrium INTERNSHIPS! How to find them, prepare for, apply, and land them!
-
Internship Stories Panel, 5:30-60, Lillis 182 Hear practical, applicable insights from a panel of alumni, industry partners who hire, and students who successfully navigated the process during an internship prep panel focused on networking, referrals, timing, applications, and more.
-
Internship Power Prep Round Tables (with FOOD!), 6:30-8pm, Lillis Atrium Stay for a structured roundtable Q&A, exploring four essential topics—researching companies and people, getting started with networking, building resilience during the search process, and developing mentorship and ongoing relationships. You will practice asking great questions, get personalized advice, and walk away with actionable next steps you can use immediately.
Spring Career & Internship Expo
Thursday, April 16th, 12pm-4pm, EMU Ballrooms
Get curious about your future and make connections with cool employers! Find your career fit with over 60+ employers comprised of a variety of industries and organizational types--all on-campus and excited to share more with you about early career talent opportunities.
-
First Career & Internship Expo? Or just a little nervous? Come early and get a low-stress, behind-the-scenes Expo Preview & Tour (11:15am-noon, EMU Ballrooms) and learn how to navigate the expo and make a good first impression with employers.
-
Take part in the Expo Scavenger Hunt to win prizes and have fun conversation starters with employers.
-
Want to make a great first impression? Bring copies of your resume and wear an outfit that reflects your confidence, personality, and professionalism.
-
While you are all dressed up, get a FREE Professional Headshot taken to add to your LinkedIn!
Friday, April 17th, 12pm-4pm (30-45 minutes each), Tykeson Hall 1st Floor Commons Come practice commonly asked interview questions and get active feedback from experienced professionals and career coaches on your communication style, professionalism, and more. Drop-ins are welcome!
8:45 a.m.–1:00 p.m.
Thinking about a career in Healthcare? Have we got a Friday morning for you! Hop on the bus and let’s go explore McKenzie-Willamette Medical Center in Springfield for a behind-the-scenes tour and Q&A with healthcare leaders just for UO students! Learn more about all the different types of job functions needed to keep this growing industry booming--from both the medical and business sides. They are excited to introduce you to career paths, meet alumni and leaders, and show off some of their innovations in action!
This event is FREE, open to all majors, and bring a friend! Must register on Handshake to save your spot! Tour space is limited! Day of registration is available if there are spots. email career@uoregon.edu if you are a community member or faculty/staff who'd like to join us.
OUTLINE OF TOUR:
Meet at Ford Alumni Center NO LATER THAN 8:45am; We'll walk over to the bus stop (Agate) to catch the EMX to the hospital in Springfield. Tour from 10am-12pm. At 12 pm we'll be done with the tour and there will be a group getting on the bus to head back to campus you can join OR feel free to go grab lunch or have fun in Springfield!
Sponsored by University Career Center and Collaborative Economic Development Oregon. Check out other events happening this term at career.uoregon.edu/events
1:00–2:00 p.m.
The Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program, Center for Undergraduate Research and Engagement, and the Latinx Studies Program Present: "Not Just for Scientists: Integrating Undergrads into Faculty Research in the Humanities and Social Sciences."
Remote workshop for faculty. Zoom link available on the Latinx Studies website.
UO undergrads have many ways to receive university funding while working with you on a research project; this can bring you assistance with meaningful research tasks along with the joy of mentoring. But in the humanities and qualitative social sciences, many of us never had models to learn how to build a team in this way. In this 60-minute workshop, you’ll hear from scholars who do qualitative and interpretive work about how they have integrated undergraduates into their research process. We’ll leave time for small-group facilitated discussions to brainstorm possibilities for you to do the same.