The School of Natural Sciences (NSCI) at St. Edward's University encompasses the traditional natural sciences; computational sciences; clinical laboratory science; and bioinformatics, an interdisciplinary research area at the intersection of biology, mathematics, and computer science.
Our Natural Science programs provide in-depth knowledge of scientific fields while taking into consideration broader aspects of the liberal arts education — an emphasis on creativity, critical thinking and writing.
Our curriculum also places a strong emphasis on collaborative, hands-on learning. Classwork and research are conducted in world-class classrooms, labs, and in the Wild Basin Creative Research Center. We formed the Institute for Interdisciplinary Science (i4), an educational and professional framework that aids in building cross-sector partnerships and interdisciplinary collaborations through funding mechanisms for NSCI faculty and students. In addition, study abroad opportunities have been integrated into our programs so students can explore the world without extending their degree completion timelines.
The School of Natural Sciences is committed to establishing, sustaining, and fostering:
In keeping with St. Edward’s Holy Cross mission, we educate the hearts and minds of aspiring scientists, equipping them with the knowledge and experience to tackle difficult problems, grapple with the moral and ethical implications of their work, communicate effectively with broad audiences, and help ensure that scientific progress benefits the whole of humanity and not just a select few.
Comprising six departments, we offer courses in astronomy, bioinformatics, biology, chemistry, computer science, forensic science, general science, kinesiology, mathematics, and physics. Most of our classes and labs take place in the John Brooks Williams Natural Sciences Center — two of the newest academic buildings on campus, built specifically for the needs of science in the 21st century. With our facilities and focus on undergraduate education, we are able to offer unparalleled student research opportunities. Many of our students present their work on campus and at local, regional, and national conferences, often winning awards recognizing the quality of their research projects. Our faculty are innovative teachers and leaders in their fields, dedicated to the success of all students.
The School of Natural Sciences offers more than 30 undergraduate major, minor, and certificate programs, including the new BS in environmental biology and climate change, a certificate in data analysis, and minors in bioinformatics, fitness and conditioning, and recreation management. Our BA in health systems & administration provides an opportunity for working healthcare professionals to complete a bachelor's degree and open doors for leadership roles in their fields. In addition, our partnerships with other universities throughout the U.S. allow students to build on their St. Edward’s education and earn two degrees in five years—one from SEU and one from the partner institution—with guaranteed admission and financial aid for those who qualify. Examples include multiple engineering programs at Washington University in St. Louis, clinical laboratory science at UTMB, and the ESTEEM program in entrepreneurship at Notre Dame.
Our NSF-funded Institute for Interdisciplinary Science (i4) was established to build capacity in interdisciplinary sciences, informatics, and emerging technologies as we increase students’ readiness for the 4th Industrial Revolution. Paid summer internships are among the opportunities i4 makes available for our students.
We also operate the Wild Basin Creative Research Center and manage the 227-acre Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve, located a short drive from campus. Faculty, staff, volunteers, and the public have direct access to Wild Basin, a small piece of and gateway to the 30,000+ acre Balcones Canyonlands Preserve.
The past few years have brought many challenges, but the School of Natural Sciences remains a vibrant and inclusive community of learners, teachers, scholars, and professionals. We are preparing the next generation of scientists to meet these challenges in the pursuit of a more just world. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me if you have questions or would like to learn more.
Jonathan Hodge, PhD
Dean of Natural Sciences
Professor of Mathematics
Approach the study of biology from the level of genes, through cells and organ systems, to populations of living organisms.
Learn basic chemical principles and theories through unique, hands-on, collaborative learning experiences designed to prepare graduates for a variety of careers.
Study the theory and development of computer software by learning algorithmic processes that create, describe, and transform information.
Learn how to collect and analyze evidence from crime scenes so it can be used in court cases or the criminal justice system.
Explore the principles and theories related to fitness and the human body — from the basics of bio-mechanics to exercise physiology.
Pursue your passion for problem-solving and prepare for high-impact careers in engineering, statistics, finance, cryptography, aeronautics, scientific research or business.
The John Brooks Williams North building is home to the University's cutting-edge laboratory instrumentation, including a Confocal Microscopy system by Olympus, compound and dissecting fluorescent scopes, and a Nuclear Magnetic Resonance room. The building's rooftop is equipped with two separate transgenic greenhouses.
A Makerspace expected to be fully operational in Spring 2022 will be home to "making" resources for teaching, research, and workshops.
The John Brooks Williams South building houses high-powered computing laboratories that support projects in robotics, environmental science and bioinformatics. Austin Energy Green Building (AEGB) program awarded its 3-star rating to the building for its environmentally sensitive design. The sun penetrates southern-facing windows in the winter to increase solar heat intake, while large overhangs and window screens limit solar radiation in the summer.
St. Edward’s Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve serves as an interdisciplinary research lab and a hands-on learning center for students. Wild Basin extends over 227 acres within the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve system with hiking trails, volunteer opportunities and events open to the public.
Student-faculty collaborations provide irreplaceable opportunities for insights, innovation and growth.
“I guide my students through the discovery process that generates a new awareness of compelling ideas. This kind of thought-provoking exchange of questions and ideas creates an ideal environment for both the development of students as well as myself as the teacher.” Michael P. Saclolo, PhD, Professor of Mathematics
The Center for Teaching Excellence recently (2020-21) awarded computer science professor Dr. Bilal Shebaro with a Distinguished Teaching Award, selected through a rigorous process of "evaluating candidates' course offerings, curricular designs, instructional methods, classroom performances, and interactions with students."
Biology Chair: Dr. Lisa Goering
Chemistry Chair: Dr. Mary Kopecki-Fjetland
Computer Science Interim Chair: Dr. Edward Early
Forensic Science Chair: Dr. Casie Parish Fisher
Kinesiology Chair: Dr. Kristy Ballard
Mathematics Chair: Dr. Carol Gee
Check out the following links for a glimpse into the history of science at St. Edward's University:
The mission of the Institute for Interdisciplinary Science (i4) is to build capacity in interdisciplinary sciences, informatics, and emerging technologies as we increase students’ readiness for the 4th Industrial Revolution.
The Institute coordinates on-campus interdisciplinary events, organizes cross-sector cooperative agreements with public and private entities, networks STEM majors with employers and graduate programs through guaranteed internships, and more.
The Senior Seminar Symposium, an annual event dating back to 1993, gives Natural Sciences senior students an opportunity to present their research at the end of the academic year. Students graduating with degrees in Biological Sciences, Computer Science, or Mathematics are encouraged to participate.
Our most recent 2022 symposium featured Dr. Ilya J. Finkelstein, Associate Professor of Molecular Biosciences at the University of Texas at Austin, as keynote speaker in association with our Institute for Interdisciplinary Science (i4).
The Lucian Symposium honors the late Brother Lucian Blersch, CSC, a longtime professor of Engineering at St. Edward’s. An endowment in his name provides support for research endeavors of the NSCI professor chosen as Lucian Chair. Since 2001, the Lucian Chair has helped organize a public symposium that brings noted scientists to campus and highlights natural science research.
The 2023 symposium, Global Health Challenges - Noncommunicable Diseases, will take place on campus Friday, September 29th, and all are welcome to attend!
Sanjay Dhamiha
Email: sanjay.dhamija@gmail.com
Alicia Dinges Ph.D.
Email: dinges.alicia@gmail.com
Rosemary Hook
Email: rosemary@hookthetalent.com
Ari Kar
Email: akar@sacheminc.com
Leela Madan
Email: leela@madan-law.com
Dr. David Moeller
Email: damolle1964@gmail.com
Rashad Saeed
Email: docrms71@yahoo.com
Hunter Skrasek
Email: hunterskrasek@me.com
David Sprague
Email: carpedna@hotmail.com
Colleen Tralongo
Email: colleen.tralongo@gmail.com
Sharon Weber, Ph.D.
Email: sweberhome@yahoo.com
Margaret Whitney
Email: margaret.whitney@austin.utexas.edu
April Workman
Email: aprilworkman1@gmail.com