USC Dornsife News

When Frank Herbert sat down in 1963 to start writing ‘Dune,’ he wasn’t thinking about how to leave Earth behind. He was thinking about how to save it.

Researchers uncover factors in urban areas that affect diversity among insects and spiders — and turn up dozens of previously unknown species, to boot.

Once threatened by disease and predators, foxes inhabiting six of Southern California’s Channel Islands were saved from extinction by the Endangered Species Act. Now, a new study shows they face a different threat: their own lack of genetic diversity.

Scientists at the USC Wrigley Institute for Environmental Studies collaborate with students at the USC School of Cinematic Arts to convey scientific research through creative outlets such as video games, animation and screenplays. [4 min read]

The coronavirus pandemic didn’t stop students in Julie Hopper’s ecology class from catching and studying insects from yards and fields all around the world.

USC students conduct marine research through virtual internships with leading environmental scientists. [4 ¾ min read]

Douglas Capone of biological sciences is spearheading a collaboration with King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Saudi Arabia.

As the inaugural speaker of the USC Dornsife Sustainability Task Force’s Distinguished Lecture Series, renowned ecologist William Schlesinger warns against the “Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse” threatening a sustainable future.

Conservation scientists Laurie Marker and Stuart Pimm earn the 2010 Tyler Prize for Environmental Achievement. The most important global recognition in environmental advancement is administered through USC, headquartered in USC College.