Natural Sciences

New CAS biochemist investigates vitamin B12’s impact on the gut

BIOCHEMISTRY, CHEMISTRY — Romila Mascarenhas, assistant professor of biochemistry, is starting a lab that investigates how gut bacteria recognize, transport and use vitamin B12, a molecule that plays a huge role in shaping microbial communities in the human gut. She anticipates her research will lead to collaboration with fellow CAS researchers across disciplines and attract a new generation of STEM students.

Heating up for health

HUMAN PHYSIOLOGY - Heat therapy is hot right now. Saunas are popping up everywhere, from the local YMCA to backyards. College of Arts and Sciences human physiologist Christopher Minson weighs in on heat therapy and its evidence-based benefits.  In a recent review paper, Minson rounded up the science behind heat therapy and how it can be most effectively harnessed to benefit health and fitness.

UO junior receives prestigious Goldwater Scholarship

COMPUTER SCIENCE - Armaan Hajarizadeh, a third-year computer science major in the College of Arts and Sciences and a member of the Clark Honors College, has been named a Goldwater Scholar. The prestigious national award recognizes undergraduates conducting research in the natural sciences, engineering, and mathematics. After earning his bachelor’s degree, he plans to attend graduate school and eventually pursue a career in academia.

Career preparation is a priority in the College of Arts and Sciences

CAREER PREPARATION — Tasked with meeting the College of Arts and Sciences career preparation goal, Assistant Dean for Career Preparation Yifang Zhang developed and implemented the Career Leaders Program. The program focuses on providing tools and resources to reframe and elevate the school's existing effort in career preparation in classrooms.
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Celebrating CAS graduate students

For Graduate-Professional Student Appreciation Week in 2026, CAS gradate students share their experiences of what makes their experience special at CAS. CAS is home to 1,295 graduate students: 307 master’s and 959 PhD. With April 6-10 Graduate-Professional Student Appreciation Week, CAS reached out to some of its graduate students to hear how about their experiences at the college.
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