Welcome from the Dean

Dear friends,

The Oregon State University College of Science lies at the heart of the institution, supporting the ideals of learning, discovery, and engagement that are the foundation of a land-grant university. The College’s many disciplines--ranging from the basic sciences of chemistry, physics, and biology to the geosciences, zoology, and health sciences--are based in unbiased inquiry and a dedication to discovery and innovation.

OSU has a guiding Strategic Plan that calls for excellence in five thematic areas:  understanding the earth’s natural systems; managing our natural resources; advancing the life sciences; fostering innovation and enterprise for economic development; and sustaining excellence in the arts and sciences. The College of Science is an integral part of each of these five areas. Our faculty, students, and staff work collaboratively with colleagues across campus and around the world. We contribute research and educational expertise to all of OSU’s 11 academic colleges. 

In addition, the college is represented in each of the six, funded Strategic Initiatives--a special effort by the OSU Provost to seed collaborative research and teaching projects showcasing the University’s strengths in the five thematic areas of the Strategic Plan.

The College of Science is committed, through our land-grant mission, to partnering with industry and public agencies to address some of the most compelling challenges of today and tomorrow.  Faculty and students in the College have helped create the world’s first transparent transistor, synthesize a new molecule for the treatment of cancer, and trace the record of carbon dioxide in the earth’s atmosphere as part of understanding the dynamics of global warming. Discovery and education in the College are always pursued with an eye to making a difference in the lives of the people we serve.

OSU’s legacy of graduating great scientists can be traced back to alumnus Linus Pauling, the most transformational chemist of this century. There is a strong history of scientific excellence at Oregon State University and the College of Science. We continue that tradition with a commitment to the education of the world’s leading new generation of curious and inventive scientists. Please take the time to explore this site and learn more about our programs, faculty, students, and alumni. I always welcome your comments, questions, and suggestions (Sherman.Bloomer@oregonstate.edu).

Best regards,

Sherm

Sherman H. Bloomer, Dean (Bio & Image, PDF)