Discover Science Lecture Series
Since its debut in 2010, the Discover Science Lecture Series has brought some of the world's top scientists to the University of Nevada, Reno where they showcase their work and research through engaging, thoughtful presentations and lectures. The 2017-2018 series will include top minds from the fields of physics, medicine, space exploration and complex systems.
Up Close With The World’s Leading Scientists
Neil deGrasse Tyson, Director of the Hayden Planetarium, speaking at the Discover Science Lecture Series.
"Science encompasses a wonderfully diverse collection of explorations into the unknown," says Jeff Thompson, Dean of the College of Science. "We invite science lovers and the science-curious to join us and experience the extent of the science universe as the best scientists on the planet visit the University of Nevada, Reno for our Discover Science Lecture Series."
How to Attend the 2017-2018 Discover Science Lecture Series
Each Discover Science lecture begins at 7 P.M. in the Davidson Mathematics and Science Center's Redfield Auditorium in Room 110. Seating for all Discover Science lectures is available on a first come, first served basis, and all lectures are free of charge. Free parking is available on the first floor of the Brian J. Whalen Parking Complex located on North Virginia Street.
2017-2018 Discover Science Lecture Series Speakers
Scott E. Page | Thursday, October 12, 2017
The Diversity Bonus
The value of an integrated society, the desire for social justice, and a belief in equity
Scott E. Page is the Leonid Hurwicz Collegiate Professor of Complex Systems, Political Science, and Economics at the University of Michigan, where he also directs the Center for the Study of Complex Systems. His research focuses on the myriad roles that diversity plays in complex systems. In 2011, he was elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. He is an external faculty member at the Santa Fe Institute.
Julie Robinson | Thursday, November 9, 2017
Off the Earth
How research on the International Space Station is changing our lives here on Earth and our future in space
Julie A. Robinson is the Chief Scientist for the International Space Station (ISS) for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) at Johnson Space Center. She earned a Ph.D. in Ecology, Evolution and Conservation Biology from the University of Nevada, Reno in 1996. She joined NASA as a civil servant in the Office of the ISS Program Scientist in 2004, was named Deputy ISS Program Scientist in 2006, and ISS Chief Scientist in 2007. She received the NASA Outstanding Leadership Medal in 2011.
James Gates, Jr. | Thursday, March 8, 2018
The Inchoate Epoch
Possibility of evolution in Mathematics laws of the Universe
James Gates Jr., a theoretical physicist, is known for his pioneering work on supersymmetry, supergravity, and superstring theory. For his contribution to science and research, he received the National Medal of Science from President Obama in 2013. He is a Distinguished University Professor, University System of Maryland Regents Professor and John S. Toll Professor of Physics at the University of Maryland.
Mick Hitchcock | Thursday, April 5, 2018
Treatments and Cures
Finding treatments and cures for diseases caused by viruses like HIV and hepatitis
Mick Hitchcock has worked for more than 30 years in the bio-pharmaceutical industry. Energy, medicine, food and water, he believes, are issues that can be solved with the appropriate application of science. Together with John Martin, he developed Viread, approved by the FDA in 2001 as a once-daily pill to treat HIV. The pair also developed Atripla, approved in 2006 as the first single-tablet regimen for treatment of HIV. Ease of use made it a popular choice for physicians and patients. More recently, the company launched Sovaldi and Harvoni, Hepatitis C treatments that can essentially cure most patients with few side effects.