Environmental Science Institute
Bridging the Gap Between Research Science & Local CommunitiesThe Environmental Science Institute
The Environmental Science Institute (ESI) at the University of Texas at Austin is a leading hub for interdisciplinary research, education, and community engagement in environmental science. Bringing together experts from diverse fields, including biology, geology, engineering, and policy, ESI tackles some of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time, from climate change to sustainable resource management. Through innovative research, hands-on learning opportunities, and public outreach initiatives, ESI is dedicated to advancing scientific knowledge and equipping the next generation of environmental leaders with the tools to create a more sustainable future.
ESI Research – An Interdisciplinary Approach
ESI’s research has significantly advanced knowledge across various topics through leadership in proposal development and projects funded by governmental institutions and private foundations. Key research areas include climate resilience, water resources and hydrology, air quality and atmospheric science, ecosystem and biodiversity conservation, and energy and environmental sustainability. Some of this research has been conducted in collaboration with local communities through Community-Based Participatory Research programs, with students actively contributing to projects that address real-world environmental challenges.
Image: Abella Gutierrez
Community Engagement – Research with an Impact
The nationally recognized talk series, Hot Science – Cool Talks, has inspired K-12 students, educators, families, and life-long learners for over 20 years to explore complex environmental challenges. Each event offers participants a dynamic opportunity to engage with Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) topics. Leading researchers from The University of Texas and other top institutions deliver compelling talks, combining world-class research with hands-on STEM activities. These events, held six times a year, can be attended on-campus or viewed virtually. To learn more about upcoming events, click here.
“The Future of Texas Water” with Dr. Robert Mace – Upcoming Hot Science – Cool Talks Event, March 28th.
Source: https://youtu.be/d-L8T3imLlk?si=Z2S5z8T6OQTgNysD
Hot Science TV
Science tells us that heat causes expansion — and the same is true for Hot Science! Expanding on the success of live events, Hot Science TV is a documentary series developed through a creative partnership between ESI and Matthew McConaughey’s film course, Script to Screen within UT’s Moody College of Communication.
This innovative series brings the wonders of the natural world to life, celebrating scientists and their groundbreaking research through vibrant animation and storytelling. Watch the latest episodes here.
Community Resilience
ESI fosters, supports, and promotes interdisciplinary research within the community of faculty engaged in advancing the field of environmental science. By integrating expertise across disciplines, ESI facilitates innovative approaches to addressing complex environmental challenges.
Project CRESSLE, developed as part of a five-year grant program from the National Science Foundation, is another initiative promoting collaboration between UT researchers and underserved Austin neighborhoods to address community resilience challenges. Learn more about Project CRESSLE here.
Texas Water Research Network
With Texas facing increasing pressures from population growth, urban expansion, and shifting water availability, the need for collaborative, science-driven solutions has never been greater. The Texas Water Research Network (TWRN), led by ESI, is a collaborative platform that connects more than 270 water professionals and stakeholders from over 70 organizations. This network is dedicated to advancing Texas Water Resilience through interdisciplinary partnerships that develop strategies for managing water resources in the face of climate change, urbanization, and increasing demand. Outcomes from this network include funded research projects related to climate impacts, conferences on sustainable urban systems, and the UT bridging initiative Planet Texas 2050. To find out more about the network, and upcoming events, click here.
ESI Advisory Council
The ESI Advisory Council connects a diverse group of environmentally conscious individuals, strengthening partnerships between ESI and like-minded organizations beyond the academic sector. As environmental challenges grow, the council fosters collaboration by integrating member expertise, research, and innovative ideas with real-world knowledge from local communities.
Attention Outreach Educators!
Looking for new, research-based resources for your outreach programs? ESI offers TEKS-aligned K-12 lesson plans covering critical topics such as groundwater, hydrogeology, and climate impacts. If you’re looking to refresh your classroom materials or introduce new STEM resources, you can find lesson plans and other educator resources here.
This article was enhanced and reviewed by ESI staff, Advisory Council members, and Cole Ruiz, Lloyd Gosselink.