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.”

Meet a Science Grad: Stephanie Busch
Meet Stephanie, 2009 Biology grad and Injury Prevention Manager at the Vermont Department of Health

Meet a Science Grad: Sasha Rose
Meet Sasha, 2008 Biology grad and research director at Insmed Incorporated.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

A dream that won't be squelched: Protecting marine life and inspiring the next generation
Simone Burton, an Honors biology major with an option in marine biology, has pushed through more obstacles than she could have imagined only four years ago. Now, she is confident that she will find a powerful way to protect marine life through a career in conservation, science communication and outreach.