NATURAL SCIENCES

SOLVING PROBLEMS AFFECTING CALIFORNIA, THE NATION AND THE WORLD

NATURAL SCIENCES

SOLVING PROBLEMS AFFECTING CALIFORNIA, THE NATION AND THE WORLD

At any given moment, a student in the School of Natural Sciences could be studying climate change … conducting biological research … testing a mathematical theory … preparing for a career or graduate school …

Top-tier programs form the foundation for continued success in recruiting the best faculty members and inspiring students. Together they delve into such innovative topics as identifying mobile elements in bacteria, fighting disease, researching DNA sequencing and creating sustainable energy sources. Using the most technologically advanced equipment in state-of-the-art labs, students gain practical experience to match the foundation of theoretical knowledge amassed during their college careers.

SCHOOL OF Natural Sciences

Majors

  • Applied Mathematical Sciences, B.S. Emphases: - Computational and Data Sciences - Computational Biology - Computer Science - Economics - Engineering - Environmental - Physics
  • Biological Sciences, B.S. Emphases: - Developmental Biology - Ecology and Evolutionary Biology - Human Biology - Microbiology and Immunology - Molecular and Cell Biology
  • Chemistry, B.S. Emphases: - Biological Chemistry - Chemical Sciences - Materials Chemistry - Environmental Systems Science, B.S.
  • Physics, B.S. Emphases: - Atomic/Molecular/Optical/Condensed Matter - Biophysics - Mathematical Physics - Physics
  • Undeclared School of Natural Sciences

The University of California Science and Math Initiative, also known as CalTeach, is a special program that prepares and supports students who are interested in becoming K-12 math and science teachers.

CalTeach Minors Natural Science Education Minor with Teaching Credential (NSEC) Graduate with both a bachelor’s degree in science, math or engineering from UC Merced and a teaching credential in science or mathematics from UC Berkeley. Natural Sciences Education (NSED) NSED minor coursework counts toward a post-baccalaureate teaching credential from UC Merced or Fresno Pacific University through the Central Valley Teacher Preparation Partnership (CVTPP).

Earn your PharmD

New Program

UC Merced and the University of the Pacific have partnered to provide UC Merced pre-pharmacy students a pathway to pursue a PharmD. Qualified candidates can receive early, guaranteed admission to the Thomas J. Long School of Pharmacy and Health Sciences Doctor of Pharmacy Program at University of the Pacific.

FACULTY PROFILE

Linda S. Hirst, Professor

Ph.D., University of Manchester, United Kingdom

Professor Linda Hirst’s research interests focus on soft condensed matter, a branch of physics that looks at the structure and function of all kinds of soft materials including liquid crystals, complex fluids, polymers and biological materials. The lab uses mainly experimental techniques to investigate how structure at the molecular level in soft systems translates to macroscopic properties. Recently the lab has focused on developing nano-particle/liquid crystal composites for applications in information display and sensing. Hirst also has worked extensively in biophysics, publishing on lipid self-assembly (the molecules that form biological membranes) and biopolymer network formation. Hirst is a member of the board of directors of the international liquid Crystal Society and author of the undergraduate text Fundamentals of Soft Matter Science.

FACULTY PROFILE

Linda S. Hirst, Professor

Ph.D., University of Manchester, United Kingdom

Ph.D., University of Manchester, United Kingdom Professor Linda Hirst’s research interests focus on soft condensed matter, a branch of physics that looks at the structure and function of all kinds of soft materials including liquid crystals, complex fluids, polymers and biological materials. The lab uses mainly experimental techniques to investigate how structure at the molecular level in soft systems translates to macroscopic properties. Recently the lab has focused on developing nano-particle/liquid crystal composites for applications in information display and sensing. Hirst also has worked extensively in biophysics, publishing on lipid self-assembly (the molecules that form biological membranes) and biopolymer network formation. Hirst is a member of the board of directors of the international liquid Crystal Society and author of the undergraduate text Fundamentals of Soft Matter Science.

PAST INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

  • Bristol-Myers Squibb
  • Cedars Sinai Medical Center
  • National Park Service
  • National Science Foundation
  • Sandia National Laboratories

STUDENT PROFESSIONAL ORGANIZATIONS

  • Astronomy Club
  • American Chemical Society
  • American Medical Student Association
  • California Health Professional Student Alliance
  • Chicano/Latino(as) in Health Education
  • Delta Epsilon Mu, Theta Chapter
  • Pre-Dental Association
  • Pre-Pharmacy Club
  • Science Alliance
  • Society for Physics Students
  • Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics
  • Society for the Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science
  • The Q Project at UC Merced
  • Women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math

School Of Natural Sciences Information Session

The School of Natural Sciences is conducting cutting-edge research, from fighting disease to creating sustainable energy sources. Hear from the Dean and current students how working side-by-side with world-renowned faculty deepens your knowledge. Learn about student resources, academic planning, mentorships, internships, and career opportunities that await.