Picker Interdisciplinary Science Institute

Advancing discovery across disciplines.

The Picker Interdisciplinary Science Institute fosters bold, collaborative research that flourishes within 91��Ƶ’s liberal arts environment.

We bring together faculty and students from across disciplines—and often beyond 91��Ƶ—to tackle scientific challenges that are too complex for any single field. By uniting diverse perspectives, we spark discoveries that expand knowledge and open new pathways for innovation. Our programs invite participation and support from faculty, students, alumni, and friends of 91��Ƶ, ensuring that the impact of this work resonates across the university and far beyond.

Training Workshop:

June 4–5, 2026
This two-day faculty and student workshop introduces participants to practical machine learning techniques for research data analysis, including data preparation, model training, and results assessment. No prior machine learning or programming experience is required. The workshop will be led by Noah Apthorpe, Ahmet Ay, and Tolga Dincer. Registration is required and ends on May 15. Faculty registration is now open; student registration begins on April 25. .

With support from a minor grant, Mike Loranty installs tracking equipment in Namibia to better understand how herbivore populations are impacted by ecosystem changes.

Undergraduate researchers working with faculty supported by the Picker ISI grant programs often share their discoveries through conference presentations and published papers.

Through minor grant funding, Assistant Professor Joe Levy and Professor Adam Burnett purchased new climate-monitoring stations to better understand 91��Ƶ microclimates.

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