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
Find daily ways to engage your career curiosity with workshops, local industry tours, alumni panels & networking events, the Winter Career & Internship Expo (1/29), and Practice Interview Day (1/30) 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 Winter 2026 Career Readiness Week sponsor: Enterprise Mobility!
Resume Extravaganza Wednesday, January 21st, 11am-4pm, Tykeson Hall Commons (1st Floor) Did you know you can have someone review your resume before the Winter Career & Internship Expo? Drop in anytime to get feedback on your resume. Don’t have a resume? Come learn how to make one!
Portland Internship Experience Virtual Info Session Thursday, January 22nd, 3pm-4pm, Zoom (register via Handshake) Interested in learning more about PIE? Get an overview of the program including the application process, curriculum and expectations, resources/support available throughout the summer, and insights from last year's program.
Career Tour: Life Sciences & Beyond! Friday, January 23rd, 9am-1:30pm, meet at Ford Alumni Center Want to see what it's like to work in a state-of-the-art laboratory, do scientific research, project management, or even scientific communication. Tour Stops include: Thermo Fisher Scientific, Yogi Tea, & InVivo Biosystems. Lunch included!
Curious about the Career & Internship Expo (Virtual Info Session) Monday, January 26th, 12pm-1pm via Zoom (Register in Handshake) Learn the ins and outs of navigating the in-person Winter Career & Internship Expo, updating your Handshake profile, researching employers, and how to present yourself authentically during the expo.
How To: Interview Strategies (Workshop) Monday, January 26th, 2pm-2:45pm, Tykeson Hall Garden Level 50P (University Career Center-Conference Room) We’ll break down the different types of interviews you might face, how to prep without spiraling, and how to answer questions with confidence.
How To: Resume Writing (Workshop) Tuesday, January 27th, 1pm-1:45pm, Tykeson Hall Garden Level 50P (University Career Center-Conference Room) We’ll cover what actually matters on a resume and how to make your experience shine! Plus, we’ll break down how AI plays a role in the job application process. Leave with tips to make your resume clean, strong, and job ready!
How To: Cover Letters (Workshop) Tuesday, January 27th, 3pm-3:45pm, Tykeson Hall Garden Level 50P (University Career Center-Conference Room) We’ll show you what a cover letter really needs. Plus, we’ll dive into how AI is changing the application game and what that means for personalizing your letter. Leave with tips to make yours clear, compelling, and unmistakably you.
Your Future in Communication (Panel + Networking) Tuesday, January 27th, 4pm-6pm, Tykeson Hall 1st Floor Commons 4-5pm: Industry Insights Panel: Hear stories and ask questions of industry leaders who have excelled in their careers as communications professionals. From backgrounds and experiences in advertising, public relations, journalism, and more! Learn about the skills and connections you can develop today to thrive in the future.
5-6pm: Connect with Employers & Alumni: Grab a snack and rotate through casual small group chats with alumni, professionals, and employers to learn more about their companies, career paths, and get advice about how to find career-building opportunities and connections for your future in the field of Communication.
GitHub Portfolios for Job Seekers (Workshop) Wednesday, January 28th, 4pm-6pm, Knight Library-Dream Lab (122) Learn how to create a free digital portfolio on GitHub to highlight your coding and career readiness skills for future employers & open-source projects.
Biz Careers: Marketing, Sales, Operations & Analytics (Panel + Networking) Wednesday, January 29th, 5:30pm-6:30pm Alumni Panel in Lillis 182 + 6:30-8pm Networking Mixer in Lillis Atrium Learn from alumni about career paths and what skills and experience you can gain now to be a competitive applicant. Immediately after the panel discussion, expand your network of employer connections and learn about immediate opportunities for internships and full-time jobs.
Winter Expo Preview & Tour Thursday, January 29th, 11:15am-12pm, EMU Ballrooms/Maple First Career & Internship Expo? Or just a little nervous? Come early and get a low-stress, behind-the-scenes look at how to navigate the expo and make a good first impression with employers.
Winter Career & Internship Expo Thursday, January 29th, 12pm-4pm, EMU Ballrooms Get curious about your future and make connections with cool employers! Over 50+ businesses, non-profits, and government agencies are on campus and excited to share more with you about their organization and early career talent opportunities—especially internships and summer jobs! 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.
School of Architecture & Environment Career & Networking Fair Thursday, January 29th, 11am-3pm, Lawrence Hall Meet firms in person! Bring your portfolio, be ready to schedule an informational or internship interview. Perhaps you are seeking a job! Meet and talk to firms to establish when they might be hiring. Build your professional network. These firms are ready to mentor and offer internships and job opportunities!
Winter Practice Interview Day (Drop-Ins Welcome!) Friday, January 30th, 12pm-4pm (30-45 minutes each), Tykeson Hall 1st Floor Commons Come practice commonly asked interview questions and get active feedback on your communication style, interviewing skills, professionalism, and more. Get feedback from experienced professionals and career coaches.
Portland Internship Experience Virtual Info Session Friday, January 30th, 3pm-4pm, Zoom (register via Handshake) Interested in learning more about PIE? Get an overview of the program including the application process, curriculum and expectations, resources/support available throughout the summer, and insights from last year's program.
noon
Why YOU should come to this Expo...
- You're curious about your future. Explore different career paths and job roles across industries. EXPOse yourself to unique career pathways that can use your career readiness skills and passions to make an impact in the world.
- You want to make connections. These organizations LOVE to hire Ducks and want to help you find your career fit. You might even meet UO alumni recruiting for them at the expo. Ask a recruiter what career readiness skills you can be building now to make you a top candidate in the present or future (and add them to your Linkedin network for future connections!).
- You want to find a job, internship, year of service, volunteer opportunity, and more! If you're actively job searching, have your resume ready to hand out and a short and sweet synopsis about yourself and your professional interests ready to go! If you're just exploring options, collect contact info, do some additional research, and do an informational interview to learn more before you apply.
- You want to build your confidence! Practice asking questions of employers AND sharing about who you are and what you're passionate about. Every expo you attend and each time you approach a recruiter, you get more and more comfortable presenting yourself in a professional manner.
WHO'S COMING? Find your career fit with over 50+ employers comprised of private industry; public, educational, and non-profit organizations; local government, the federal government, law enforcement, and military--ALL on campus and excited to share more with you about their organization and early career talent opportunities. Open to students from ALL majors, classifications, and identities. Every expo looks a little different so come each term to keep exploring and expanding your career opportunities!
WHAT NEXT? Register for the Expo on Handshake today to learn about all the companies coming, and positions of interest you can be researching. We'll also send you tips and advice for how to make the most of the expo, including Career Readiness Week workshops like our Resume Extravaganza so you can have a great resume to hand to potential employers!
The University Career Center thanks Enterprise Mobility for sponsoring all of our Winter Career Readiness Week events and workshops.
For a full list of Winter Career Readiness Week (January 23-30) events and workshops, check out http://career.uoregon.edu/events
5:30 p.m.
The Oregon Humanities Center presents Christopher Brown and his jazz band
Each moment of our lives presents us with opportunities and challenges for us to make decisions that will shape the next minute, hour, day, week, month, year, and decade to come. If we want positive outcomes, the challenge is learning how to string together appropriate decisions in each moment. And for that, a decision-making filter is required. Christopher Brown and his band will demonstrate how jazz musicians use decision-making filters to identify what’s worth and what’s not worth paying attention to in various moments of our lives. His presentation and the band’s performance “Beyond the Buzz: Finding the Signal in a Noisy World” will take place in the Sheffer Recital Hall. There will be a reception with no-host bar at 5:30 p.m. The presentation and performance will begin at 6 p.m.
Christopher Brown is a Portland-based musician, composer, bandleader, and educator who seeks to be a voice for the advocacy of jazz music and American culture. After 20 years of military service, Brown studied jazz at Rutgers University’s Mason Gross School of the Arts earning undergraduate and graduate degrees in Jazz Studies/Performance. He has taught as an artist in-residence at Wells Fargo’s “NJPAC Jazz For Teens” program (NJ), Mt. Hood Jazz Camp (OR), Mel Brown Jazz Camp (OR), Litchfield Jazz Camp (CT), Rutgers Summer Jazz Institute (NJ), Montclair Jazz Camp (NJ), and the International Summer Music Camp (Brno, Czech Republic). His musical and personal experiences have led him to an interest in synthesizing the principles of jazz with the day-to-day practicalities of life.
This event is part of the 2025–26 Cressman Lectureship.
6:00–7:30 p.m.
Phi Beta Kappa Visiting Scholar Margo Schlanger will hold a public lecture on:
"Federal Civil Rights Cases by and against the Trump Administration"
Margo Schlanger is the University of Michigan's Wade H. and Dores M. McCree Collegiate Professor of Law, and the founder and director of the Civil Rights Litigation Clearinghouse. Professor Schlanger earned her JD from Yale in 1993, and clerked for Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Professor Schlanger is the 2025-2026 Carl F. Cranor Family Visiting Scholar.