For Dale Comstock, mathematics opened doors far beyond the classroom, leading to research collaborations, government service and teaching opportunities across the world. Now, he is helping encourage future Oregon State researchers through a new endowed dissertation award for doctoral students in mathematics.
The Department of Mathematics invites you to the 41st Lonseth Lecture on Thursday, May 28, with guest lecturer Laura P. Schaposnik. In her lecture, titled "Geometry of Hidden & Broken Symmetries," Schaposnik will break symmetry on purpose to see what drives reality.
Erica Baird (’05, M.A. mathematics ’09, Ph.D. mathematics and statistics ’13) didn’t set out to become an actuary. In fact, when she first heard about the career as an undergraduate mathematics student at Oregon State University, she was skeptical.
"Math circles are for kids who like math and for kids who want to like math, so it's possible that they just don't like the math they're doing in classes, and they'll enjoy this more,” said founder Nathan Gibson.
The Wei Family Private Foundation supports Oregon State students working on complex problems across disciplines – from tracking PFAS in urban environments and studying Alzheimer’s disease at the molecular level to modeling vaccine protection and developing new battery materials – advancing work that addresses global challenges in health, the environment and energy.
From inspiring graduate and undergraduate classrooms to transformative academic advising, this year’s awardees exemplify the very best of the College of Science. Their passion, rigor and commitment to student success continue to shape an inclusive, high-impact learning community.
Four College of Science research teams have been awarded funding through SciRIS Stage 2 and Stage 3 categories. Their projects span quantum materials, nanotechnology, spectroscopy, and cell-based computing — exploring spin waves for future computing, tracking nanoplastics in living systems, developing single-pixel spectrometers, and advancing cell-based artificial intelligence.
This year, the College of Science stood out across multiple categories, with honorees recognized for advancing student success, championing affordability, sparking innovation and driving world-class discovery.
At Oregon State, Roan Luikart was able to bring his passion for math to life. He studied abroad in England, conducted two undergraduate research projects, served as a resident assistant and helped grow the Math Club.
Artificial intelligence is transforming the world—but how did we get here, and where are we going next? Join us to hear Rachel Ward, an applied mathematician known for her work on machine learning, optimization and signal processing from the University of Texas at Austin, share a talk titled, “From bits to bots: a mathematical perspective on generative AI.” Whether you're studying STEM, already immersed in the field, curious about AI, or passionate about the future of technology, this lecture offers a compelling look at the science and mathematical principles behind the algorithms—and the opportunities ahead.
