Science in the Scholarship First Agenda
Science in the Scholarship First agenda
The LSU College of Science is translating science into solutions addressing deep-rooted challenges and answering questions essential to the health and progress of our state, nation, and beyond.
Our research is a centerpiece in LSU’s Scholarship First agenda with threads that run throughout each of the agenda’s pentagon priorities driving next-level possibilities in agriculture, biotechnology & biomedicine, coast & environment, defense, and energy. The college’s rich and diverse research community encompasses five departments, the LSU Museum of Natural Science, and a variety of research, education, mentoring, and community engagement programs supported by more than $37 million dollars in public and private funding. And we bring all these resources to bear as we push boundaries with a resilient get-it- done attitude inherent to the College of Science.
Research Priorities
Our scientists employ innovative plant technologies to enhance crop growth, addressing the global challenge of feeding a projected 10 billion people by 2050. With population growth, climate change, and environmental issues, there’s an urgent need to improve agricultural practices. Local farmers, facing crop production declines, particularly in staple crops like rice, soybean, and sugar cane, benefit from ongoing research efforts to cultivate more robust and resilient plants, fortifying against threats to crop health.
Cancer remains a leading cause of death in the U.S., second only to heart disease. However, advancements in diagnosis and targeted therapies have contributed to a 33% reduction in overall cancer deaths since 1991, offering a more positive outlook on survivability. Our researchers contribute significantly to our understanding of the disease and the development of quicker, more accurate, and less toxic treatment options.
Louisiana's coastline contributes to 30% of the nation's commercial fish harvest, supporting a $1.9 billion seafood industry, with recreational fisheries adding another $1.96 billion. However, severe weather, coastal land loss, climate emergencies, and other environmental stressors threaten the health of Louisiana's coastline, its wildlife, fisheries, and the economies that depend on it. Positioned near Louisiana's coast, LSU's College of Science researchers study the impacts of these factors, collaborating across disciplines and institutions to develop solutions addressing these threats and aiming to secure a healthier future for our coast.
Our researchers contribute to reimagining the defense of our future, focusing on safeguarding our state and the nation against threats to critical infrastructure, industry, and the economy. Within the College of Science, researchers, including those who have secured grants from entities like the Army Research Office, National Science Foundation, Office of Naval Research, and Air Force Office of Scientific Research, are actively working on enhancing long-range communication capabilities and formation control for military aircraft.
Energy is vital to Louisiana’s economy and the nation's supply. College of Science researchers focus on cleaner, safer, and sustainable energy solutions, along with improving efficiency, transmission, and storage. Efforts include optimizing photosynthesis for food and fuel production and exploring sustainable practices for energy efficiency in the chemical industry.
Making More Space for Research
A Space for Innovation and Collaboration
For more than a century, LSU’s College of Science has impacted students across the university, as nearly all undergraduates pass through our halls to take required math and science courses. And every day, more than 3,000 students, faculty, and staff within the college’s five academic departments and the LSU Museum of Natural Science make discoveries and conduct research that will answer important questions that will improve lives. This forever-evolving work demands an advanced, adaptable environment.
Our Lady of the Lake Health Interdisciplinary Science Building
Space Exploration
50+ Years of Space Excellence
For over 50 years, our scientists have contributed to space exploration, validating theories, exploring life markers on Mars, and advancing spaceflight. Their research, including the study of thousands of gamma-ray bursts, led to the discovery of the BOAT—the Brightest Of All Time.
$37+ Million
Research Funding
- LSU College of Science
279
Faculty
- Fall 2023
$148 Million
Our Lady of the Lake Health Interdisciplinary Science Building
- Fully Funded