UC biologist and ornithologist Ron Canterbury at the Center for Field Studies with helpers banding birds for research.

Natural Sciences

The natural sciences at the College of Arts and Sciences focuses on the physical world around us, ranging from neutrons and atoms to cells and organisms, to explain and understand processes that impact our society today. We encompass the fields of biology, chemistry, geosciences, geography, mathematics, physics, and psychology. By emphasizing experimental techniques, quantitative analysis, and critical thinking, the natural sciences equip students with skills essential for careers in research, healthcare, technology, and mental health services. 

Our faculty of accomplished scientists and dedicated educators, as well as supportive staff guide students through innovative coursework, hands-on laboratory experiences, and optional co-op opportunities, fostering scientific inquiry to prepare tomorrow’s leaders. Through interdisciplinary studies and collaborative projects, the natural sciences at the College of Arts and Sciences inspires students to solve today’s global challenges.

Latest News

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Pi Day: Where math meets dessert

March 12, 2026

Pi Day is celebrated on March 14 around the world, as March 14 represents its first three numbers, 3.14. It’s a yearly celebration for math lovers to see who can recite the most digits, talk about its history and have an excuse to eat many, many pies! First, the math: PI is the Greek letter “π” and it is the symbol used in mathematics to represent a constant, as it is the ratio of the circumference of a circle to its diameter. It has been calculated to over 50 trillion digits beyond its decimal point and will continue to repeat, as it is an irrational and transcendent number.

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PHOTOS: UC greenhouse offers colorful respite from winter

March 11, 2026

Atop a roof at the University of Cincinnati, six high-tech glass houses that grow plants for biology in the College of Arts and Sciences. Greenhouse Manager Audrey Trauth is here most days tending the plant collection, which is organized into biomes to accommodate the desert, temperate and tropical plants.

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Always a cheerleader: Alumna lifts student-athletes

March 5, 2026

When University of Cincinnati student-athlete Ligia Williams, CECH ’25, takes the court, she knows she’s not alone. Behind her stands a dedicated mentor who believes in her potential — alumna Cindy Coggins, CECH ’73.


Natural Sciences in the News

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Pi Day: Where math meets dessert

March 12, 2026

Pi Day is celebrated on March 14 around the world, as March 14 represents its first three numbers, 3.14. It’s a yearly celebration for math lovers to see who can recite the most digits, talk about its history and have an excuse to eat many, many pies! First, the math: PI is the Greek letter “π” and it is the symbol used in mathematics to represent a constant, as it is the ratio of the circumference of a circle to its diameter. It has been calculated to over 50 trillion digits beyond its decimal point and will continue to repeat, as it is an irrational and transcendent number.

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Cincinnati’s top-ranking murals impact more than city aesthetics

March 11, 2026

Cincinnati recently ranked as the nation’s runner-up for best street art. Spectrum News turned to Hyesun Jeong, assistant professor of urban design in the University of Cincinnati’s School of Art at the College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning (DAAP), for insights on the tangible impact of these murals.

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PHOTOS: UC greenhouse offers colorful respite from winter

March 11, 2026

Atop a roof at the University of Cincinnati, six high-tech glass houses that grow plants for biology in the College of Arts and Sciences. Greenhouse Manager Audrey Trauth is here most days tending the plant collection, which is organized into biomes to accommodate the desert, temperate and tropical plants.