Basic Science
Lights the Way
Division of Biological Sciences
Division of Mathematical & Physical Sciences
University of California, Berkeley
Fall 2022
UC Berkeley is renowned for cutting-edge, curiosity-driven scientific research that results in paradigm-shifting discovery — fundamentally changing our understanding of nature, the universe, and ourselves. This tradition continues as strong as ever. Do you share our curiosity? The College of Letters & Science’s Division of Biological Sciences and Division of Mathematical & Physical Sciences invite you to join this series of enlightening virtual discussions, featuring our brilliant faculty and students.
All events will be held via Zoom at 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time. Use one of the Register buttons below to sign up in advance.
Schedule
You can register for this season’s events below:
Coping with Global Warming: Past, Present, and Future
We feel the effects of climate change at the cellular level and at the level of large physical systems, such as weather. Our researchers will show the effects of a warming planet on animals and plants, as well as the physical processes that determine Earth's future climate.
The Science of Wellness
What neural mechanisms are actually at play when you experience peace and contentment? What research-backed steps can you take to lead a happier life? A panel of experts discuss the science behind physical education and mental wellbeing, as well as the newly-created Health & Wellness minor at Berkeley.
Gravitational Waves: Messengers from Deep Space
First predicted by Einstein's general theory of relativity and finally detected in 2015, gravitational waves are ripples in the curvature of spacetime generated by massive cosmic events, such as black hole collisions and neutron star mergers. Join us as our astrophysicists discuss the data they collect from these events, and what they tell us about the Universe, inflation, and much more.
Invisible Science
Every second of every day, millions of naturally occurring systems are at work, completely imperceptible to the human eye, yet profoundly impacting the world around us. From dark matter, the mysterious force that makes up approximately 85% of our Universe, to neutrinos, an abundant subatomic particle with a mass close to zero, to the protein machinery that facilitates the biochemistry of our cells, our researchers will shed light on the invisible particles and cells that are the building blocks of matter.
Contact
To connect with us, please fill out this form or contact External Relations at . If you require an accommodation for effective communication in order to fully participate in this series, please provide as much advance notice as possible and at least seven days before a specific event date.