School of Natural Sciences

The School of Natural Sciences (NSCI) at St. Edward's University encompasses the traditional natural sciences; computational sciences; clinical laboratory science; and bioinformatics, an interdisciplinary research area at the intersection of biology, mathematics, and computer science.

Reflecting the St. Edward's Mission

Our Natural Science programs provide in-depth knowledge of scientific fields while taking into consideration broader aspects of the liberal arts education — an emphasis on creativity, critical thinking and writing.

Hands-on Learning

Our curriculum also places a strong emphasis on collaborative, hands-on learning. Classwork and research are conducted in world-class classrooms, labs, and in the Wild Basin Creative Research Center. We formed the Institute for Interdisciplinary Science (i4), an educational and professional framework that aids in building cross-sector partnerships and interdisciplinary collaborations through funding mechanisms for NSCI faculty and students. In addition, study abroad opportunities have been integrated into our programs so students can explore the world without extending their degree completion timelines.

Strategic Framework

The School of Natural Sciences is committed to establishing, sustaining, and fostering:

The integration of diversity throughout our community
An environment based on clear communication and transparency
A community of learners who embrace a growth mindset
Collaboration within and across disciplinary boundaries
A professional community that nimbly adapts

Interact with us on Twitter, Facebook, & Instagram @seuscience!

Department of Biological Sciences

Approach the study of biology from the level of genes, through cells and organ systems, to populations of living organisms.

Department of Chemistry

Learn basic chemical principles and theories through unique, hands-on, collaborative learning experiences designed to prepare graduates for a variety of careers.

Department of Computer Science

Study the theory and development of computer software by learning algorithmic processes that create, describe, and transform information.

Department of Forensic Science

Learn how to collect and analyze evidence from crime scenes so it can be used in court cases or the criminal justice system.

Department of Kinesiology

Explore the principles and theories related to fitness and the human body — from the basics of bio-mechanics to exercise physiology.

Department of Mathematics

Pursue your passion for problem-solving and prepare for high-impact careers in engineering, statistics, finance, cryptography, aeronautics, scientific research or business.

North Building

The John Brooks Williams North building is home to the University's cutting-edge laboratory instrumentation, including a Confocal Microscopy system by Olympus, compound and dissecting fluorescent scopes, and a Nuclear Magnetic Resonance room. The building's rooftop is equipped with two separate transgenic greenhouses.

A Makerspace expected to be fully operational in Spring 2022 will be home to "making" resources for teaching, research, and workshops.

South Building

The John Brooks Williams South building houses high-powered computing laboratories that support projects in robotics, environmental science and bioinformatics. Austin Energy Green Building (AEGB) program awarded its 3-star rating to the building for its environmentally sensitive design. The sun penetrates southern-facing windows in the winter to increase solar heat intake, while large overhangs and window screens limit solar radiation in the summer.

Wild Basin

St. Edward’s Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve serves as an interdisciplinary research lab and a hands-on learning center for students. Wild Basin extends over 227 acres within the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve system with hiking trails, volunteer opportunities and events open to the public.

Student-faculty collaborations provide irreplaceable opportunities for insights, innovation and growth.

“I guide my students through the discovery process that generates a new awareness of compelling ideas. This kind of thought-provoking exchange of questions and ideas creates an ideal environment for both the development of students as well as myself as the teacher.” Michael P. Saclolo, PhD, Professor of Mathematics

The Center for Teaching Excellence recently (2020-21) awarded computer science professor Dr. Bilal Shapiro with a Distinguished Teaching Award, selected through a rigorous process of "evaluating candidates' course offerings, curricular designs, instructional methods, classroom performances, and interactions with students."

Department Chairs:

Biology Chair: Dr. Lisa Goering

Chemistry Chair: Dr. Mary Kopecki-Fjetland

Computer Science Interim Chair: Dr. Monica Hernandez

Forensic Science Chair: Dr. Casie Parish Fisher

Kinesiology Chair: Dr. Kristy Ballard

Mathematics Chair: Dr. Carol Gee

View All NSCI Faculty/Staff

Check out the following links for a glimpse into the history of science at St. Edward's University:

The Science at St. Edward's University timeline outlines major school events dating from the 1950s through 2021.
The Science Deans at St. Edward's University timeline is a record of deans of the science school through 2021.
The Science at St. Edward's Historical Collage illustrates the story of the science school from the 1950s through 2021, using content from the archives at Munday Library and other collected materials.

The mission of the Institute for Interdisciplinary Science (i4) is to build capacity in interdisciplinary sciences, informatics, and emerging technologies as we increase students’ readiness for the 4th Industrial Revolution.

The Institute coordinates on-campus interdisciplinary events, organizes cross-sector cooperative agreements with public and private entities, networks STEM majors with employers and graduate programs through guaranteed internships, and more.

Follow i4 on Twitter, Instagram and YouTube!

The Senior Seminar Symposium, an annual event dating back to 1993, gives Natural Sciences senior students an opportunity to present their research at the end of the academic year. Students graduating with degrees in Biological Sciences, Computer Science, or Mathematics are encouraged to participate.

Our most recent 2022 symposium featured Dr. Ilya J. Finkelstein, Associate Professor of Molecular Biosciences at the University of Texas at Austin, as keynote speaker in association with our Institute for Interdisciplinary Science (i4).

Review Programs from Recent Years:

The Lucian symposium honors the late Brother Lucian Blersch, CSC, a longtime professor of Engineering at St. Edward’s. An endowment in his name provides support for research endeavors of the NSCI professor chosen as Lucian Chair. Since 2001, the Lucian Chair has helped to organize a symposium open to the public that brings noted scientists to campus and highlights natural science research.

View the Zoom recordings from the 2021 Lucian Symposium: Global Health Challenges - Healthy Inequity here.