This is the College of Science biweekly newsletter. For the most up-to-date information, visit science.gmu.edu.

A message from Dean Cody W. Edwards

Scientists and mathematicians thrive in mountains of data. It’s where discovery happens.

In that sea of numbers and variables, we test hypotheses that lead to personalized medicine and life-saving therapies. We predict the weather and prepare for its extremes. We rebuild bridges—both literal and figurative—so they are stronger and more resilient. We help endangered species survive and even give athletic teams the edge they need to make that game-winning shot.

Data fuels it all.

And right here in Northern Virginia, we’re standing at its epicenter. Loudoun and Prince William Counties—alongside George Mason University—are positioning our region as a national and global hub for data innovation. The world’s largest technology companies are investing in computational science, data infrastructure, and the clean energy needed to power a new era of insight and reliability.

At George Mason’s College of Science, we feel that energy every day.

It’s no surprise our data-driven programs are among the fastest-growing at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Students recognize that fluency in data analytics is more than a skill—it’s a superpower. Whether their interests lie in healthcare, finance, engineering, policy, or conservation, data science opens doors. Families and school counselors alike now view data science as the “next big thing,” not just as a field, but as a way of thinking that will define the future.

Our programs in Computational and Data Sciences, Mathematical Sciences, Atmospheric, Oceanic and Earth Sciences, Geography and Geoinformation Science, Systems Biology, and Physics—among others—equip students to see patterns others miss, make sense of complexity, and harness technology responsibly.

Because at Mason Science, we believe the future of data is not just in its power, but in its purpose.

Catch up on Dean Cody W. Edwards' latest updates on the College of Science, including the effects of the new university budget model and the administrative assessment.   

Have you attended the Center for Satellite and Earth Science Research (CSER) Fall 2025 Webinar Series? Held virtually Thursdays at 4 p.m., these public talks feature leading researchers in Earth science, satellite data, and Earth system research. Upcoming speakers include Seohui Park, NASA (11/6); Allison Ring, UMD (11/13); Thomas Jones, CIWRO/OU (11/20); Erdal Yiğit, George Mason (12/4).

As we approach the holidays, please keep in mind that College of Science proposal deadlines will be shifting to accommodate University closures. If you’re considering submitting to a solicitation between now and January, please let Jessica Hanna or your College of Science Pre-Award RA know so they can plan the workloads and better assist with the shortened timelines. See Jessica Hanna's 10/31 email titled "Research Proposals - Winter Holiday Deadline Schedule" for dates and details. 

If you are seeing a Windows 10 End of Life pop-up message on your PC and have not yet responded to the Windows 11 Upgrade Survey, please do so as soon as possible. Be sure to include the name of your device (instructions provided on the IT page). This will ensure that your device is included for Windows 10 Extended Support for one additional year at no cost to you or your department while we work on replacing the devices. If you have a Windows 11 or a Mac device, this issues does not apply to you and no action is required.  

by Zander Leon

The Center for Mathematics and Artificial Intelligence (CMAI) at George Mason started an international collaboration with the University of Concepción in Chile. Through this partnership, students and researchers work on real-world optimization problems influenced by physics and uncertainty, contributing to research in areas such as machine learning, fluid dynamics, and imaging. See participants and CMAI Director Harbir Antil discuss how the program supports mathematical research while fostering international connections that enhance education and scientific work.

by Elena Paige Haley

Environmental science major Melanie Medrano has long aspired to work in the federal government, in a role she describes as being on the front lines of creating meaningful environmental change. She took a major step towards that goal by starting an internship with the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), where she assists in their communication efforts through December 2025. Medrano (center) with her mentors Abby Lynch (left) and Jackson Valler (right) at the Reston offices. Photo provided. 

by Joe Goodman

In the recent October 10 Carbon Brief publication, Environmental Science and Policy Assistant Professor Jennifer Sklarew weighed in on Fukushima's solar future on contaminated lands. Sklarew explained that many Fukushima communities, once evacuation orders were lifted, faced economic challenges. With agriculture struggling due to stigma and soil removal from decontamination, residents had to find alternative sources of income. Credit: Newscom/Alamy Stock Photo.

by Ella Ruder

Highlighted in Becker’s Behavioral Health, Mathematical Sciences Professor Padmanabhan Seshaiyer, College of Public Health's Holly Matto, and College of Engineering and Computing's Nathalia Peixoto are developing VR environments and personalized monitoring tools to help individuals practice coping strategies and build resilience in real-world situations. Photo by Adrià García Sarceda on Unsplash. 

George Mason University is updating its Microsoft 365 storage policies to ensure sustainability and security. Information Technology Services provides updates about what’s changing for students, faculty, and staff—and how you can declutter your data. Illustration by Getty Images.

Learn what’s required for submitting proposals to Congress, key expectations, do’s and don’ts, timelines, budget considerations, and more. The webinar on Wednesday, November 19 from 2 to 3 p.m. will be hosted by Kerry Bolognese, Director, Federal Relations and Rebekah Hersch, Associate Vice President, Research and Innovation Initiatives. Register to attend. Photo by Idean Azad on Unsplash.

Climate Dynamics Graduate Programs Virtual Open House
Friday, November 7, 2025 | 10 to 11:30 a.m. | Virtual
Please share the following opportunity with students who may be interested in advancing their understanding of Earth’s climate systems and pursuing a career focused on addressing the challenges of climate.

Cultivating Empathy
Friday, November 7, 2025 | 11 to 12:30 p.m.
ASPIRE workshops build on the core concepts of teamwork, belonging, and effective leadership that help create strong, connected, and resilient communities. Visit MasonLEAPS to search for each course and register. 

Compassionate Conversation
Monday, November 10, 2025 | 3:30 to 5 p.m.
ASPIRE workshops build on the core concepts of teamwork, belonging, and effective leadership that help create strong, connected, and resilient communities. Visit MasonLEAPS to search for each course and register. 

College of Science Faculty Meeting at Fairfax
Wednesday, November 12 | 1 to 2 p.m. | Exploratory 3301 and Virtual

GCI Lightning Talks and Matchmaking Mixer
Monday, November 14, 2025 | 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. | Virtual
Attend the  Grand Challenge Lightning Talks & Matchmaking Mixer — a fast-paced, engaging event where the Mason community shares bold ideas and connects across disciplines. Whether you're submitting a proposal, seeking collaborators, or just curious about transformative research, this is your chance to get inspired and get involved. Register to attend.

Center for Infectious Disease Research (CIDR) Meeting
Wednesday, November 19, 2025 | 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. | Verizon Auditorium, Colgan Hall, SciTech Campus
CIDR will host a one-day conference highlighting the latest findings on viral, bacterial, and other emerging and exotic pathogens featuring presentations from leading experts at the NIH, ATCC, and regional institutions including Johns Hopkins University, the University of Virginia, and the University of Maryland.