We envision a world in which trust between scientists and the public forms the basis for a more sustainable and resilient environment for all people to live, grow, and prosper.
Lead pollution in Arctic ice shows economic impact of wars, plagues, famines from Middle Ages to present
Photo: Dr. Joe McConnell and graduate student Nathan Chellman work in the ice lab at the Desert Research Institute, in Reno, Nev., on Wednesday, May 15, 2019. Photo by Cathleen Allison/Nevada Momentum. RENO, Nev. (July 8, 2019) – How did events like the...
Problem Plastic: Investigating Microplastic Pollution in Nevada’s Waterways
The extent of microplastic pollution is only just beginning to be understood, with researchers discovering the tiny plastic pieces everywhere from the air we breathe to the deep ocean.
Meet Graduate Researcher Dante Staten
Meet Dante Staten, a Ph.D. student in environmental science with an emphasis in environmental chemistry. Staten recently graduated from the University of Nevada, Reno with a Master's Degree in environmental science. At DRI, Staten is working with Dr. Andrey...
2026 Season Tickets Now Available!
For the 2026 season of Curiosity Lab by DRI, satisfy your curiosity by exploring the wonders of environmental science! Dive into fascinating topics like earth, water, and air research, and discover how science sparks creativity. Join us as we help answer your questions on the most pressing scientific issues and showcase Science That Matters Now.
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More than 60 years of scientific discovery and innovation, in Nevada and around the world
Since 1959, the faculty, students, and staff at DRI have advanced scientific knowledge to help solve pressing environmental challenges and improve human health. With more than 600 employees, over 300 projects on all seven continents, and two world-class research campuses in Reno and Las Vegas, DRI serves as one of the eight institutions in the Nevada System of Higher Education.
Atmospheric Sciences
Research and services related to air quality and associated health risks, climate, cloud and aerosol physics, renewable energy, fire science, and atmospheric dynamics.
Hydrologic Sciences
Research, development, and education services contributing to society’s fundamental understanding of hydrologic systems and advancing the sustainability of water resources.
Earth & Ecosystem Sciences
Research in the life & earth sciences, particularly those dealing with the complex interactions of geological processes, organisms, biological communities, and human societies.
Education & Workforce Development
Training Nevada's K-12 teachers and providing professional development opportunities and training for education-based activities.
Environmental Research Areas
DRI faculty and staff work in over 40 scientific fields on all seven continents.
40 Laboratories and Facilities
DRI has more than 40 specialized labs and facilities on research campuses in Reno and Las Vegas.
60 Years of Scientific Excellence
Since 1959, DRI has contributed to solving our toughest environmental challenges.
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