Elements | College of Natural Sciences

Understanding health at the cellular level

Biochemists and molecular biologists in the College of Natural Sciences are fascinated by the microscopic, tiny building blocks of life: cells. A deeper understanding of our cells is critical to advancing human health.

We are advancing scientific frontiers. Read more in a letter from Interim Dean Simon Tavener.

Solving the plastics problem

Polymer chemists at CSU have made two major advancements in the world of plastics – “upcycling” mixed-use plastics and creating new biodegradable “dream” plastics.

Algorithms that pinpoint power line faults

Power lines can cause destructive wildfires, but CSU statisticians are developing algorithms that can offer real-time alerts about potential faults within the grid.

Pursuing new educational frontiers

A new undergraduate summer research program in statistics, study abroad course in biology, and four new concentrations in chemistry are educating the next generation of scientists.

A student wearing a VR headset as a part of Deja Vu research looks around a virtual space. A researcher is seated in a chair monitoring what the student is viewing on a desktop computer.

Unraveling the enigma of memory

CSU psychologist Anne Cleary is one of the first to shed light on enigmatic experiences such as déjà vu.

Defending against potential Mars contaminants

As humanity continues to expand its territory through space exploration, CSU’s Eric Ross is working to ensure the safety of materials brought back from space – starting with the Mission to Mars.

The future of energy

From archaea to algae, CSU biochemists are helping realize a more sustainable energy future.

Physicists propel spintronics innovations

Spintronic devices exploit the inherent charge and spin of electrons to process information and could revolutionize everything from cancer detection to quantum computing to data storage.

A mountain range in Colorado with small patches of snow still visible.

Reproductive Physiology: High-elevation Pregnancies

Deer mice display evolutionary adaptations to offset the effects of gestational hypoxia, a discovery that could shed light on human complications during high-elevation pregnancies.

Demystifying climate change

From measuring genome-level climate adaptation over time to developing artificial intelligence to measure carbon sequestration, CSU researchers are helping to demystify the effects of climate change.

An older man and woman smile together in front of a grey studio backdrop. The woman wears a blue turtleneck and colorful red and yellow patterned coat. The man wears a brown suit and tie.

Spirit of Philanthropy Award

The Spirit of Philanthropy Award recognizes faculty and staff whose longstanding commitment and passion for Colorado State University has made a significant impact to University fundraising efforts.

Portrait of Jennifer Mueller with pink hair wearing a white shirt and blue blazer.

Yates Endowed Chair in Mathematics Jennifer Mueller

After an international search, Jennifer Mueller, professor in the Department of Mathematics at Colorado State University, has been named the third Albert C. Yates Endowed Chair in Mathematics.