DRI Launches Statewide Science Storytelling Series

DRI Launches Statewide Science Storytelling Series

DRI announces the launch of a series of community-based events in Las Vegas and Reno that celebrate how science shapes our lives, fuels creativity, and deepens our understanding of the world by underscoring the transformative power of curiosity and knowledge. Curiosity Lab by DRI will feature DRI scientists and other guests to address some of the world’s most urgent concerns while also telling the tale of what it means to live in Nevada on the front lines of a changing climate.

From Curiosity to Creation: Listen, Learn, Create

From Curiosity to Creation: Listen, Learn, Create

Join us for an evening of inspiration and creativity at Curiosity Lab by DRI’s official Artown event “From Curiosity to Creation: Listen, Learn, Create.” Discover the intersection of art and science through lightning talks from innovative artists and scientists, then...

Reno-Sparks Heat Mapping Project Releases Detailed Urban Heat Data 

Reno-Sparks Heat Mapping Project Releases Detailed Urban Heat Data 

The summer 2024 data collection effort provides community members, legislators, and scientists with detailed maps of the region’s urban heat island. The campaign took place on August 10th, a clear and hot day for our region. The measurements and maps produced from the campaign reveal a great deal of variability across the nearly 200 square miles of our study area and between the early morning, mid-afternoon, and early evening time periods of the study. 

New Research Solves 200 Year Volcanic Mystery

New Research Solves 200 Year Volcanic Mystery

DRI scientists Joe McConnell and Nathan Chellman are co-authors on a new study that sheds light on a historical mystery that has plagued historians and scientists alike for nearly two centuries. Using Arctic ice core records, the team identified the volcano responsible for an enormous eruption in 1831 that caused global cooling of around 1°C, leading to crop failures and famines around the world.

Regional, Racial, and Economic Disparities in Cancer Risk from Air Pollution Exposure Persist, But Improving, New Research Suggests 

Regional, Racial, and Economic Disparities in Cancer Risk from Air Pollution Exposure Persist, But Improving, New Research Suggests 

Researchers from DRI and UNR teamed up for this new study, published October in Environmental Science & Technology. Using sociodemographic data from the U.S. Census Bureau and public health and air pollution information from the EPA between 2011 and 2019, the study identified higher estimated cancer risk tied to air toxics in urban communities, those with lower incomes, and those with higher proportions of racial minorities. 

Annual Awards Presented to DRI Faculty and Staff at 2024 Celebration of Science 

Annual Awards Presented to DRI Faculty and Staff at 2024 Celebration of Science 

DRI’s annual awards and recognition ceremonies were held at our Reno and Las Vegas campuses in early October to honor scientists and staff members for their achievements. Along with the below awardees, several faculty and staff were recognized for their long-term service to the institute. DRI prides itself on fostering a fulfilling workplace that builds internal community and inspires scientific discovery. 

Reno-Sparks Heat Mapping Project seeking volunteers for August 10

Reno-Sparks Heat Mapping Project seeking volunteers for August 10

In an effort to better understand urban heat islands and their impacts on our region, a group of organizations, led by the Nevada State Climate Office, is seeking volunteers to track heat on August 10 for the Reno-Sparks Heat Mapping Project. Volunteers will set out in pairs to drive or navigate a predetermined route, equipped with a GPS-equipped temperature and humidity sensor that can be affixed to a volunteer’s car. The original project date was postponed due to unusually cool weather.