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

1

How Halloween took over October

October 31, 2025

University of Cincinnati history professor Janine Hartman was featured in the Dayton Daily News discussing how Halloween has evolved from ancient Celtic rituals into a modern celebration embraced across cultures. Hartman says the holiday endures because it unites people through creativity, community and shared joy.

3

UC team unveils Wyandot Removal Trail across Ohio

October 24, 2025

Rebecca Wingo, an associate professor of history and director of the public history program in the University of Cincinnati’s College of Arts and Sciences, is featured in a WVXU story about new historical markers honoring the Wyandot people—the last Indigenous nation forcibly removed from Ohio.

4

John Updike called his letters dull. They’re anything but.

October 23, 2025

James A. Schiff, founding editor of The John Updike Review and UC English professor, edited Selected Letters of John Updike, the first comprehensive collection of the author’s correspondence. Drawing from thousands of letters spanning Updike’s life, Schiff offers new insight into the writer’s personal and literary world. The volume was edited by The New York Times.

5

From political science to insurance underwriting

October 22, 2025

A career in insurance wasn’t in the cards for Max Roberts when he started his political science degree at UC, but that was where he landed. “I originally thought I’d pursue law or public policy,” said Roberts. “Political science gave me a strong foundation in critical analysis and communication, skills that turned out to be surprisingly relevant in the insurance world.”


Natural Sciences in the News

1

What will it take to eradicate cervical cancer?

October 31, 2025

The University of Cincinnati Cancer Center's Thomas Herzog joined WVXU's Cincinnati Edition to discuss the importance of HPV vaccination and pap testing for the prevention and early detection of cervical cancer.

2

How Halloween took over October

October 31, 2025

University of Cincinnati history professor Janine Hartman was featured in the Dayton Daily News discussing how Halloween has evolved from ancient Celtic rituals into a modern celebration embraced across cultures. Hartman says the holiday endures because it unites people through creativity, community and shared joy.

3

Mediterranean diet for liver disease: How the right fats can help

October 30, 2025

Being diagnosed with liver disease can feel like a lot to handle. Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) happens when fat builds up in the liver, and the patient also has diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure or high cholesterol. The Mediterranean diet has proven benefits for adults with MASLD, as WebMD recently reported.

4

Why are more millennials getting cancer?

October 30, 2025

The University of Cincinnati Cancer Center's Carla Justiniano joined WVXU's Cincinnati Edition to discuss the rise in cancer diagnoses among younger people.