Departments
Earth: Understanding the Planet
Acid Ocean
Water that upwells seasonally along the West Coast of North America is growing increasingly acidic, according to a survey conducted in 2007 by an international team of scientists. In June, they reported finding acidified ocean water within 20 miles of the shoreline, raising concern for marine ecosystems from Canada to Mexico. More… 
Innovation: Promoting Entrepreneurship and Invention
Wired Fantasies
There’s a cyber-equivalent of souping up your car inside and out: “modding.” It’s part of the DIY (“do it yourself”) computer culture. Instead of gutting and customizing your ride, you’re modifying your PC. More…
Sustainable Supply Chains
Recycling isn’t just for consumers, says OSU business professor Zhaohui Wu. Companies dealing with old desktop computers and other high-tech cast-offs are redesigning their products in response to “take-back” laws cropping up from the Pacific Rim to the European Union. More…
Stewardship: Managing Nature’s Resources
Call to Order
Problem solver and data provider. Advocate, explorer and teacher. Scientists play these and other roles in the often contentious environmental policy process, but not everyone agrees on which role is most important or even proper. More…
Horse Power
When a horse develops an infection, its owners usually turn to a rural veterinarian. But when lameness strikes an Oregon Appaloosa or quarterhorse, rural vets increasingly refer their patients to OSU’s College of Veterinary Medicine for treatment. More…
Student Research: Preparing for the Future
Devoted to Nano
Undergrad Anna Putnam is squirming. The interviewer has touched a raw nerve in the chemical engineering major. “You’re digging deeply into my life,” she says, shifting in her chair. Her confession comes with reluctance: “My first term at OSU, I struggled in math.” Pressed, she admits the worst: “I got a C in vector calculus.” More…
Vitality: Advancing the Life Sciences
Birth Mothers
"Would you like to help us listen to the baby?” Melissa Cheyney asks 8-year-old Isaiah. “OK, push that button!”
As Isaiah carefully holds an ultrasound device against the pregnant belly of his mother, Amanda Wise, ocean-like sounds fill the bright, freshly painted living room. More…