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Two rhinoceroses striding out of a river.
News

New Nepal Study Abroad: Explore the interweaving of culture and biology

A brand-new, three-week study abroad opportunity in Nepal is being launched for students to experience. Led by Dee Denver, head of the Department of Integrative Biology, the Intersections of Biodiversity and Buddhist Cultures in Nepal course promises a trek through the Himalayas, excursions in lowland jungles, and time spent in centuries-old monasteries.

Catherine Raffin poses in front of a bush of vibrant pink flowers.
Students

The field where ‘everything matters’: Biology senior chases an insect dream

Many people grow up with a fear of bugs, and above all else, a fear of spiders. Oregon State biology senior Catherine Raffin was just the same. The sight of eight spindly legs and a pair of fangs made her skin crawl, so she did the only logical thing: purchased a pet tarantula. “From a young age I was always morbidly fascinated with the insects everybody fears,” she said. “I thought it was crazy how something so small can be so terrifying.”

woman wearing classes smiling
Alumni and Friends

Meet a Science Grad: Stephanie Busch

Meet Stephanie, 2009 Biology grad and Injury Prevention Manager at the Vermont Department of Health

Man wearing a bike helmet and holding a bike
Alumni and Friends

Meet a Science Grad: Sasha Rose

Meet Sasha, 2008 Biology grad and research director at Insmed Incorporated.

Abigail LaVerdure smiles at camera outside
Students

Biology senior looks forward to a rewarding career in occupational therapy

After graduating with a degree in biology and a certificate in medical humanities, Abigail LaVerdure has moved to Henderson, Nevada to begin her doctorate in occupational therapy (OT) at Touro University.

Extreme close-up of needles on the tip of the stem of an embryo plant encased in bright yellow amber resin.
News

Integrative Biology study yields a first in fossil research: Seeds sprouting from an amber-encased pine cone

Research from the Department of Integrative Biology has uncovered the first fossil evidence of a botanical condition known as precocious germination in which seeds sprout before leaving the fruit. The embryonic plants, growing from a pine cone of an extinct tree species, are encased in amber from the Baltic region.

Mark A. Phillips standing in front of shrubbery.
Faculty and Staff

New integrative biology hire examines the mechanisms of evolution

With a unique background, extensive mentoring experience and research relevant to today’s big questions, new Assistant Professor of Integrative Biology Mark A. Phillips is poised to make an impact at Oregon State University starting Fall 2021.

Quagga mussels on rock on bank of Colorado River.
Integrative Biology

Low-flow research on Colorado River sheds light on eventual new normal for Grand Canyon

Researchers from Oregon State University say ecological data gathered during a recent low-flow experiment in the Grand Canyon is a key step toward understanding Colorado River ecosystems as the amount of water in the river continues to decline.

Eastern Spadefoot Toad sitting in leaves.
Integrative Biology

Oregon State Ph.D. candidate sheds light on better way to study reputedly secretive toad

Research by an Integrative Biology Ph.D. candidate Anne Devan-Song in Oregon State University’s College of Science has upended the conventional wisdom that for a century has incorrectly guided the study of the eastern spadefoot toad, which is considered endangered in part of its range.

Bryan Lynn sitting outside
Graduate students

Creativity, research and activism intersect for Martin-O’Neill fellow

Integrative Biology Ph.D. candidate Bryan K. Lynn studies evolutionary game theory, advocates for LGBTQ+ equity, and excels at pastry creation. His work uses mathematical modeling to investigate the evolution of cooperation, using bacteria as his subjects.