Aerial view illustration of diverse people holding hands forming circles.

Celebrating Research and Innovation

April 6–10, 2026

Monday  |  Tuesday  |  Wednesday  |  Thursday  |  Friday

The Office of the Vice President for Research and Innovation is pleased to host a Week of Research and Innovation to recognize the excellence in research, scholarship, and discovery across every UO school, college, and campus.

We invite you to join together with faculty, students, postdoctoral scholars, and staff to build connections, share ideas, and showcase the breadth and impact of our research and innovation ecosystem.

We hope these events re‑energize our community by strengthening partnerships, fostering new collaborations, and reminding us of the exciting and meaningful work happening across the UO every day.

Events

Monday, April 6
Red brick building on the University of Oregon northeast Portland campus.
UO Portland: Accelerating Research and Innovation Success
Monday, April 6 | 10:00–11:00 a.m.
Zoom
 
This event for researchers at UO Portland will highlight the wide range of resources available to support research, scholarship, and innovation activities. This webinar will introduce services that help faculty identify funding opportunities, develop competitive proposals, and navigate the translation of research into impact through intellectual property, licensing, and related innovation pathways. It’s an ideal opportunity to learn how the UO can help advance your ideas from discovery to application.
Trees line a sidewalk in front of the Knight Campus building.
Knight Campus Bioengineering Seminar
Monday, April 6 | 1:00–2:00 p.m., with reception to follow
Beetham Family Seminar Room, Knight Campus Building
 
The Knight Campus Department of Bioengineering hosts PhD candidate Ifra Ansai, who will present her research. Research Assistants Chandler Asnes and Teagan Sutherland will also present their experiences with I-Corp. 
 
More information is on the BioE Seminar Series webpage.
Exterior of Tykeson Hall on a spring day.
Physical Chemistry Seminar
Monday, April 6 | 2:00–3:00 p.m.
140 Tykeson Hall
 
Professor Aurelia Honerkamp-Smith of Lehigh University will present a lecture titled Flow-mediated membrane protein patterning on model and living membranes. 
 

The Physical Chemistry research area hosts research seminars throughout the year. More information is on the Joint Sciences Seminar calendar.

Spring campus scene with trees in the foreground, students in the middle, and the Johnson Hall building in the background.
Advancing Impact: Launching a Week of Research and Innovation
Monday, April 6 | 3:00–4:30 p.m.
Redwood Room, EMU and Zoom (RSVP for link)
 
This opening session will kick off our Week of Research and Innovation, beginning with remarks from UO President Karl Scholz underscoring the essential role of research, scholarship, and creative work in fulfilling the university’s mission. Interim Vice President for Research and Innovation Geri Richmond will set the tone for a week of exciting programming designed to build community, spark new collaborations, and elevate the visibility of the UO’s research and innovation enterprise. The event will include time for Q&A, networking, and connection over refreshments. 
 
RSVP is encouraged for in-person attendance and required for Zoom registration.

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Tuesday, April 7
A table with an open laptop, notebook, and cup of coffee.
SPS Coffee and Conversation
Tuesday, April 7 | 9:00–10:00 a.m.
DREAM Lab, Knight Library and Zoom
 
This event invites department grant administrators and researchers to connect with Sponsored Project Services staff and leadership over coffee and refreshments. After a meet-and-greet, attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and gain insights during a hybrid presentation covering important topics in sponsored projects. 
World map with some countries highlighted.
Research Beyond Borders: Perspectives from Fulbright Scholars
Tuesday, April 7 | 11:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
151 Tykeson Hall
 
Join us for a conversation with former Fulbright Scholars as they share candid insights from their research experiences abroad. Attendees will also learn practical tips for crafting a strong Fulbright application and navigating the selection process. This session is part of our Week of Research and Innovation and is open to anyone curious about pursuing global scholarship opportunities. 
 
This session is co-sponsored by the Global Studies Institute and the Office of the Vice President for Research and Innovation.
Trees line the shore of the Metolius river on a clear day.
Collaborative Research in Disaster Resilience
Tuesday, April 7 | 1:00–2:00 p.m.
PSC Visualization Lab, Allan Price Science Commons and Research Library
 
This session, co-sponsored by Office of the Vice President for Research and Innovation, the Institute for Resilient Organizations, Community, and the Environment (IROCE), and the UO's Chief Resilience Officer, brings together researchers working in natural hazards and disaster resilience for an in-person coffee and tea gathering designed to help participants learn about each other's work and seed new collaborations. The event will also include a discussion of strategies for pursuing external funding to support emerging research partnerships in this area.  
A microscopy image of stained, cross-sectional view of human skeletal muscle tissue.
Research Revealed: A Science Communication Showcase
Tuesday, April 7 | 3:00–4:30 p.m.
Redwood Room, EMU
 
“Science isn’t finished until it’s communicated,” reminds Sir Mark Walport, emphasizing the essential role of clear, accessible storytelling in sharing research with the world. Building on his statement, this event—co‑sponsored by Office of the Vice President for Research and Innovation, the School of Journalism and Communication, and the Institute for Resilient Organizations, Community, and the Environment (IROCE)—will feature lightning round science communication presentations from students, announce the winners of the Research Revealed photo and multimedia contest, and showcase science communication projects from undergraduates, graduate students, and faculty across campus, all aimed at empowering the community to articulate research impact more effectively.
 
RSVP for the Science Communication Showcase. More information is on the Research Revealed webpage. 
Campus scene with students walking and trees blooming with flowers.
Comparative Literature "Work-In-Progress" Talk
Tuesday, April 7 | 5:00–6:30 p.m.
Prince Lucien Campbell Hall (PLC) 159
 
Comparative Literature graduate students Mus'ab Abdul-Salam, Mariam Nadeem, and Untara Rayeesa will present their research in progress at the Comparative Literature department's “Work-In-Progress” series, which provides a forum for students and faculty to share ongoing projects.
 
This session is presented by the Comparative Literature Department and the Comparative Literature Graduate Student Association. More information is on the Comparative Literature Work in Progress Series webpage.

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A frog emerges from a pond.
Eden McCall's first place submission to the 2024 Research Revealed photo contest consisted of a photo of her research subject, the Oregon spotted frog.

A photo and multimedia contest for undergraduate students

Undergraduate students involved in research and creative scholarship are encouraged to submit an entry to Research Revealed. Submissions will be on display during the week. Cash prizes are awarded.

Submit an Entry by March 13

Wednesday, April 8
A table with an open laptop, notebook, and cup of coffee.
SPS Coffee and Conversation
Wednesday, April 8 | 9:00–10:00 a.m.
DREAM Lab, Knight Library and Zoom
 
This event invites department grant administrators and researchers to connect with Sponsored Project Services staff and leadership over coffee and refreshments. After a meet-and-greet, attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and gain insights during a hybrid presentation covering important topics in sponsored projects.
Women gather in a seated circle around a woman who is talking.
CAS Social Impact Forum: Increasing the Social Impact of Research
Wednesday, April 8 | 10:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m.
Cedar and Spruce rooms, EMU
 
As part of its strategic plan, the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) is committed to advancing the social impact of the research, scholarship, and creative activity undertaken by its faculty and students. Join us for a multidisciplinary faculty panel discussing how their work contributes to meaningful societal outcomes, followed by a Q&A session. This event offers participants a chance to learn how CAS researchers are driving positive change and to explore approaches for deepening the real‑world impact of academic work.
A student uses a surveying instrument in a rockshelter cave.
Research Takeover: Celebrating Undergraduate Research Opportunities
Wednesday, April 8 | 12:00–2:00 p.m.
Willamette Hall Atrium
 
Undergraduates are invited to explore what research at the UO really looks like as research groups from across campus “take over” the Willamette Atrium with hands-on activities that showcase the exciting, diverse projects led by UO research teams. This interactive event is a great opportunity to meet research teams, ask questions about getting involved, and discover pathways into labs and creative inquiry—all while having a chance to win prizes. It’s an easy, welcoming way to see how you can jumpstart your own research journey at the UO.
A student in a podcasting studio.
Launching "The Global Hearth" Research Podcast
Wednesday, April 8 | 1:00–2:00 p.m.
Browsing Room, Knight Library
 
Celebrate the launch of the Global Studies Institute’s new podcast, The Global Hearth, with a panel and interactive session featuring researchers highlighted in the inaugural episodes. Faculty will share stories from their international research collaborations, offering insight into the challenges, discoveries, and impact of conducting scholarship across borders.
Zebrafish swimming in a tank.
A Guided Tour of Neuroscience at the UO
Wednesday, April 8 | 2:00–4:00 p.m.
Meet at ZIRC (1307 Franklin Blvd)
 
Join members of the UO community for an immersive introduction to neuroscience research facilities, beginning with a guided tour of the Zebrafish International Resource Center (ZIRC) to see how this unique model organism supports groundbreaking research. The event continues with visits to a handful of laboratories, where participants will learn first‑hand about ongoing neuroscience projects and the innovative approaches driving discovery across the institute. This program offers a behind‑the‑scenes look at the facilities, tools, and scientific questions shaping neuroscience at UO.
Headshot of Ada Limón.
Ada Limón: "The Unleaving: How Poetry Helps You to Not Miss Your Life"
Wednesday, April 8 | 4:00–5:00 p.m.
Redwood Room, EMU and live-stream
 
The Oregon Humanities Center’s (OHC) 2025-26 Cressman lecture will feature poet Ada Limón, who will present The Unleaving: How Poetry Helps You Not Miss Your Life.  
 

Ada Limón is the author of seven books of poetry and two picture books. Limón is the recipient of a MacArthur Fellowship, a Guggenheim Fellowship, and was named a 2024 Time Magazine Woman of the Year. She served as the 24th Poet Laureate of the United States. 

RSVP for the Ada Limón lecture is required. More information is on the Oregon Humanities Center Cressman Lectureship webpage.

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Thursday, April 9
A table with an open laptop, notebook, and cup of coffee.
SPS Coffee and Conversation
Thursday, April 9 | 9:00–10:00 a.m.
DREAM Lab, Knight Library and Zoom
 
This event invites department grant administrators and researchers to connect with Sponsored Project Services staff and leadership over coffee and refreshments. After a meet-and-greet, attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and gain insights during a hybrid presentation covering important topics in sponsored projects.
Exterior of the National Institutes of Health building.
Understanding Changes to the NIH Review Process
Thursday, April 9 | 9:00–10:00 a.m.
Tykeson 151
 
This panel discussion will bring together UO faculty who have recently served on National Institutes of Health (NIH) study sections to share firsthand insights into the new simplified NIH review framework and what these changes mean for investigators. Panelists will discuss how researchers are aligning their work with evolving NIH priorities and offer practical guidance on crafting grant proposals that respond effectively to updated review criteria. The session will also mark the launch of recruitment for the third cohort of the NIH Academy, inviting attendees to learn how the program can support their NIH‑focused grant development.
Interior of the Fenton Hall library.
Boosting Faculty Careers through Honors and Awards
Thursday, April 9 | 1:00–2:00 p.m.
Diamond Lake Room, EMU and Zoom
 
This session is focused on strengthening faculty recognition at the UO. Beginning with opening remarks by Provost Chris Long and Interim Vice President for Research and Innovation Geri Richmond this event highlights the importance of honors in advancing institutional reputation, supporting recruitment, and elevating individual scholarly profiles. Presenters will introduce available OVPRI support, strategies for successful nominations, and ways departments can foster a strong recognition culture. The event concludes with a faculty panel sharing real experiences and insights into the impact of academic honors.
A pink rose blooms near a campus sidewalk.
Flourishing Together: OVPRI Staff Connection and Conversation
Thursday, April 9 | 2:30–4:00 p.m.
Crater Lake room, EMU
 
OVPRI staff in research and innovation administration units, research core facilities, and centers and institutes are invited to a social gathering designed to acknowledge their impact, deepen interpersonal connection across units, and explore inclusion and belonging across the research ecosystem. The event will include brief remarks, interactive activities, and facilitated small-group conversation centered on UO flourishing and engagement
 
RSVP for the OVPRI staff session is encouraged.
Logo for the Robert Family Launch Strategy Seminar Series.
Innovation Showcase, in collaboration with the Roberts Family Launch Strategy Seminar Series
Thursday, April 9 | 4:00–6:00 p.m., with reception to follow
Lundquist College of Business, Chiles Business Center, Room 128
 
Join us for a special event featuring presentations, discussions, and demonstrations from UO innovators and startups across campus in honor of the Office of Vice President for Research and Innovation’s Week of Research and Innovation. This special edition of the Robert Family Launch Strategy Seminar Series showcases the many forms innovation takes at the UO, including representation from a student startup participating in the Oregon Innovation Challenge; Gina Biancarosa, an innovator from the College of Education; VivoTex, a startup from the Knight Campus; and AlChemy Coatings, a startup from the Materials Science Institute. Reception to follow.   
 
The Robert Family Launch Strategy Seminar Series helps transform UO research discoveries and student innovations into investment-ready ventures. Created in partnership with the UO Foundation’s Launch Oregon fund and the Lundquist College of Business, the series equips founders with the tools, mentorship, and strategic frameworks needed to move from concept to launch. 
 

More information is on the Robert Family Launch Strategy Seminar Series webpage.

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Friday, April 10
A table with an open laptop, notebook, and cup of coffee.
SPS Coffee and Conversation
Friday, April 10 | 9:00–10:00 a.m.
DREAM Lab, Knight Library and Zoom
 
This event invites department grant administrators and researchers to connect with Sponsored Project Services staff and leadership over coffee and refreshments. After a meet-and-greet, attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and gain insights during a hybrid presentation covering important topics in sponsored projects.
An educator and a child in a classroom examine leaves.
ACCESS Center Presents: Responsible Use of Rapid Qualitative Methods
Friday, April 10 | 11:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.
Zoom (RSVP to receive the link)
 
This workshop will provide participants with the opportunity to:
  1. Discuss when to use rapid methods, when to stick to the traditional methods, and how to combine both modes of analysis for complex projects.
  2. Walk through considerations regarding who should collect and analyze the data, and how to best adhere to ensure analyses are corroborated within research teams.
  3. Engage in a hands-on activity, walking participants through how to conduct a matrix of templated analysis of an interview data set.  
 
RSVP is required for the ACCESS Center session. 
Students sit in a circle outside of a brick campus building on a spring day.
Oregon Humanities Center "Work-In-Progress" Talk
Friday, April 10 | 12:00–1:00 p.m.
Prince Lucien Campbell Hall (PLC) 159
 
Hessam Abedini, Comparative Literature graduate dissertation fellow will present his project When the Three Magi Serve Homer: Preserving the Iranian Cosmology in English Translations of Firdausi's Shahnameh (AD 1010).
 
RSVP is required for the Oregon Humanities Center Work-in-Progress talk.
Headshot of Kory Russel.
IPRE Seminar Series
Friday, April 10 | 12:00–1:00 p.m.
Hendricks Hall 100
 
The Institute for Policy Research and Engagement is a part of the UO School of Planning, Public Policy and Management. This seminar is in collaboration with the School of Architecture and Environment.
 
Kory Russel, assistant professor of landscape architecture and environmental studies, presents The Sustainable Sanitary City: Container-based Sanitation, Gray Water Reuse, and the Future of Urban Water Infrastructure.  
 
More information is on the IPRE Seminar Series webpage.
Rows of fish tanks line both sides of a walkway in the aquatic animal care facilities.
Tour Our Research Core Facilities
Friday, April 10 | 1:30–3:30 p.m.
Meet at the Lewis Integrative Science Building first floor auditorium 
 
Join us to explore the UO’s unique research core facilities and get a first‑hand look at the specialized instruments, equipment, and resources that power our leading‑edge research. Students, staff, and faculty may sign up for up to three tours across the following facilities: Aquatics Animal Care Services, Center for Advanced Materials Characterization in Oregon, Lewis Center for Neuroimaging, Oregon Fabrication and Design, and the Genomics and Cell Characterization Core Facility. These guided tours offer an inside view of the infrastructure that supports discovery at the UO and an opportunity to learn how these shared resources enable groundbreaking work across disciplines. 
 
RSVP is required for the tour of the research core facilities.
Attendees talking at high-top table during WIN reception.
Graduate Student Networking: Like to Mingle? Let's Play Bingo!
Friday, April 10 | 2:00–3:30 p.m.
Willamette Hall Atrium
 
Graduate students from across the UO are invited to an informal community‑building social event playing Bingo, designed to spark connections across departments, schools, and colleges. This cross‑campus gathering offers a relaxed environment for meeting fellow graduate students, expanding interdisciplinary networks, and strengthening a sense of shared community—complete with games, prizes, and refreshments. 
 
RSVP is required for the grad student networking event.

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Departments and groups with existing programming can submit event details for inclusion on the Week of Research and Innovation calendar of events.

Many thanks to our partners across campus in collaborating on Week of Research and Innovation.

See you there!

 

The Week of Research and Innovation celebration is sponsored by the Office of the Vice President for Research and Innovation.

 

Recent Research Successes