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A male college student engages with children during Discovery Days
College of Science

Empowering communities: Highlights from the College of Science’s 2023-24 outreach

Whether fostering curiosity in local classrooms, providing resources for underserved communities or translating cutting-edge discoveries for the general public, our outreach bridges the gap between science and society, elevating both. Here are some examples from across our departments during 2023-2024.

Two men stand in front of a background of space on a green screen.
Physics

NANOGrav paper named one of 2024's 'Most-Cited in Astronomy'

Two College of Science physics faculty members were instrumental in a groundbreaking study honored by IOP Publishing as one of 2024’s most-cited articles in astronomy. Xavier

Four people stand together at an awards ceremony for the College of Science.
Alumni and Friends

Alumni Awards celebrates in impactful legacies and achievements

The College of Science community recently gathered to celebrate this year's Alumni Award recipients. These individuals have enriched many lives through their professional achievements, impact and service. They embody our vision to extend the reach and impact of science by improving life for the people of Oregon and beyond.

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Faculty and Staff

Materials scientist Janet Tate wins Lifetime Achievement in Science Award

Although time is an enemy for some, Janet Tate used it to leave a lasting mark on physics curriculum, students, and the field of thin-film semiconductors, earning her the 2024 Lifetime Achievement in Science Award from the College of Science.

Solar flares as seen from space
Physics

Scientists make Wile E. Coyote observation, confirming theory of how solar flares are created

An international collaboration that includes a College of Science astrophysicist has identified a phenomenon, likened to the quick-footed movements of an iconic cartoon predator, that proves a 19-year-old theory regarding how solar flares are created.

Warren Washington in office space
Alumni and Friends

Remembering Warren Washington: A trailblazer in climate science

The College of Science honors the extraordinary legacy of Warren Washington (’58, ’60), a pioneering climate scientist and one of the university's most distinguished alumni. Washington, who passed away on October 18, 2024, earned degrees in physics and meteorology from Oregon State, laying the foundation for his groundbreaking career.

A man in a black suit stands in front of a green background.
Physics

Astrophysicist Xavier Siemens elected 2024 fellow of the American Physical Society

The College of Science is proud to announce that Xavier Siemens, a distinguished astrophysicist and renowned leader in the field of gravitational wave research, has been elected a 2024 Fellow of the American Physical Society.

Physics student Diego Menendez leans on a large white column at Memorial Union Hall at Oregon State University. He has his arms crossed in front of him and he smiles at the camera. The hall behind him stretches on with a series of large white columns.
Diversity in Science

Physics student dedicated to increasing access to STEM

Physics student Diego Menendez will begin classes for his final year at Oregon State during Hispanic Heritage Month 2024, right after his last LSAMP bridges experience as a program mentor. When asked what Hispanic Heritage Month means to him, he said, “I feel like during that month and other identity-based celebration months, people are just so proud of where they come from, who they are, and their lineage, their people, their families. I love that. I'm a very proud Cuban all the time.”

A professor shows a student how to use a piece of lab technology.
Physics

Driving smaller, faster and greener technology with quantum materials

Physicist Ethan Minot and his laboratory are unlocking the potential of quantum materials to revolutionize technology. Their groundbreaking research is not only pushing the boundaries of science but also paving the way for student careers in the tech industry.

Joey Takach posing with a smile in front of leafy green bushes.
Physics

Edtech-inspired physics and mathematics senior lands a spot at top-tier university

A long time ago in a galaxy not so far away — in Lake Oswego, Oregon — Joey Takach ordered a bunch of soundboards, accelerometers and other metal parts online.

A photo of a building.
Faculty and Staff

Science faculty awarded L.L. Stewart Faculty Fellowships to bridge science and art

Two College of Science professors have been awarded the 2024 L.L. Stewart Faculty Fellowship.