Dean's Blog: Mason Science - Focus on building a Climate-resilient society
As you may have heard, George Mason University has launched an ambitious effort to focus translation research and impact on six solution areas to one Grand Challenge Initiative (GCI). To ensure future generations can pursue lives worth living, George Mason and our College of Science are committed to developing transformative solutions, advancing strategic investments, and preparing the next generation of leaders to drive sustainable systems forward.
Although our college has and will continue to contribute within all six GCI solutions, this blog focuses on the solution grounded in climate resilience and sustainability, one of our college's greatest proven strengths.
In the short term, our college has been very busy and engaged in this focus area. From launching a research experience for undergraduates (REU) focused on conservation biology, announcing the first comprehensive climate assessment of our Commonwealth later this month, to championing collaborative engagement and learning among students and community, all while working with state, regional, and national government, academic, and industry partners to build a climate-resilient society.
We officially launched George Mason University’s new Research Experience for Undergraduates site, one of a few ever awarded to the university. This program is truly one-of-a-kind, with a distinctive focus and an extraordinary partnership with the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute (NZCBI). Together, we will provide transformative, hands-on research experiences for the next generation of scientists. We are thrilled to welcome our first cohort of REU scholars in Summer 2026, and we look forward to seeing the discoveries, collaborations, and career pathways that will emerge from this unique opportunity.
This REU represents not only a milestone for Mason Science but also a model of what can be accomplished when higher education and Smithsonian science come together to create impactful research opportunities for students.
To those interested colleagues, I’m excited to invite you to the release of the first Virginia Climate Assessment on October 21 at FUSE at Mason Square, presented by George Mason’s Virginia Climate Center (VCC). This milestone reflects our commitment to advancing science that makes a real difference for our students, communities, and shared future. The afternoon will feature a symposium and a program, including remarks from George Mason's President Gregory Washington, an overview by VCC Co-Director and Atmospheric Oceanic and Earth Sciences Professor, Jim Kinter, and a keynote address by Virginia’s Chief Resilience Officer, Greg Steele.
This summer, four George Mason students participated in the Virginia Academy of Science, Engineering and Medicine (VASEM-UPP) in Richmond, VA. Guided by Environmental Science and Policy Associate Professor K.L. Akerlof, participants in this bootcamp on science policy in Virginia, participants visited the General Assembly to explore STEM-H and shadow COVES Fellows in their legislative and executive offices. Throughout this unique learning experience, they explored topics like AI’s societal impact, health disparities, and Virginia’s energy future. From analyzing real-world case studies to engaging with policymakers and nonprofit leaders like Shelly Parsons of Capital Trees, our students are building impactful networks while gaining firsthand experience in how science shapes public policy at every level.
Speaking of VASEM, congratulations to Mason Science’s own, Jagadish Shukla and Lance Liotta on their induction into the VASEM. This prestigious honor recognizes their exceptional contributions to science and society. We are proud to celebrate two of our brightest scholars whose work continues to elevate George Mason University and the College of Science.
As our scientists and partners pursue this Grand Challenge Initiative, I will continue to share our progress and highlight initiatives and opportunities to partner, to build cross functional teams, as we activate research, scholarship, and creative activities for actionable solutions to foster resilient communities and ensure a sustainable future.
