Meet Patrick Hurbain
Patrick Hurbain, Ph.D., is an environmental epidemiologist working with Judy Chow, John Watson, and Xiaoliang Wang in the Environmental Analysis Facility. In the following interview, Hurbain discusses how his childhood in Stead influenced his career trajectory, his new study published in Environmental Science & Technology, and his hopes for bringing the chili cook-off back to DRI.
Meet Tyler Doane
Tyler Doane, Ph.D., started in May 2024 as Assistant Research Professor in the Division of Hydrologic Sciences. He works remotely from Cleveland, Ohio, where his wife teaches bioethics at Case Western Reserve University’s medical school. Doane is a geomorphologist who received his Ph.D. at Vanderbilt University before completing a postdoctoral position at Indiana University, Bloomington. In the this Behind the Science interview, Doane talks about his interest in applying math to describe scientific phenomena, his interest in embracing noise and chaos to understand Earth systems, and his favorite method for coming up with new research questions.
Featured Story
DRI Science On the Colorado River
This Storymap offers an overview of some of DRI’s research related to the Colorado River, much of which is focused on finding solutions for a changing world. With advancements in fields like estimating evaporation off of reservoirs, creative ways to supplement and protect mountain snowpacks, and using satellites to measure vegetation water use, the research presented here is an example of science’s value for guiding humanity to a brighter future.
Support the IRP Endowment:
Double Your Impact with a Dollar-for-Dollar Match!
Join us in backing bright minds & their best ideas.
Support us in funding critical research for a better future.
Upcoming Events
More than 60 years of scientific discovery and innovation, in Nevada and around the world
Since 1959, the faculty, students, and staff at the Desert Research Institute (DRI) have advanced scientific knowledge to help solve pressing environmental challenges and improve human health.
With more than 600 employees, over 300 projects on all seven continents, and two world-class research campuses in Reno and Las Vegas, DRI serves as one of the eight institutions in the Nevada System of Higher Education.
Atmospheric Sciences
Research and services related to air quality and associated health risks, climate, cloud and aerosol physics, renewable energy, fire science, and atmospheric dynamics.
Hydrologic Sciences
Research, development, and education services contributing to society’s fundamental understanding of hydrologic systems and advancing the sustainability of water resources.
Earth & Ecosystem SciencesÂ
Research in the life & earth sciences, particularly those dealing with the complex interactions of geological processes, organisms, biological communities, and human societies.
Education & Workforce Development
Training Nevada's K-12 teachers and providing professional development opportunities and training for education-based activities.
Environmental Research Areas
DRI faculty and staff work in over 40 scientific fields on all seven continents.
40 Laboratories and Facilities
DRI has more than 40 specialized labs and facilities on research campuses in Reno and Las Vegas.
60 Years of Scientific Excellence
Since 1959, DRI has contributed to solving our toughest environmental challenges.
As a non-profit, we rely on your support.
By making a gift to DRI, you’re providing the resources our scientists need to better understand and address the challenges posed by our changing planet.