Biological and Environmental Sciences Colloquium Series
Friday, September 19, 2025 3:00–3:50 PM
- LocationCenter for Biotechnology and Life Sciences, 010
- DescriptionThe BES Colloquium Series is the research seminar series for the College of Environmental Sciences at the University of Rhode Island. BES students nominate speakers from across several disciplines including: Cell and Molecular Biology (CMB), Ecology and Ecosystem Science (EES), Environmental and Earth Sciences (EVES), Evolution and Marine Biology (EMB), and Sustainable Agriculture and Food Systems (SAFS). Invited speakers spend the day at URI visiting with faculty and graduate students.The full and complete schedule can be found here: https://marineevoecolab.github.io/BES-Colloquium/
- Websitehttps://events.uri.edu/event/biological-and-environmental-sciences-colloquium-series
More from Today's Events
- Sep 182:30 PMRhody Abroad Programs Information SessionHave you ever considered studying in Spain, Ireland, Costa Rica, or South Korea for either a short term or full semester program?Rhody Abroad Programs are highly supported, more affordable study abroad programs. With proper planning most majors can find a Rhody Abroad option that will keep you on track for graduation.Want to learn more about studying on one of these programs or how to get started? Join us for this information session.
- Sep 183:00 PMACR AI/ML Seminar: Physics-Informed Machine Learning for Modeling Orbital Dynamics in Binary Black Hole SystemsThe Institute for AI & Computational Research is continuing the series of talks on AI/ML techniques and applications across various scientific domains. We envision the talks to strike a good balance between depth and breath. The goal of these talks will be to (i) introduce the particular AI/ML technique to fellow faculty and graduate students who have a basic understanding of deep learning and (ii) present a variety of applications in different domains without assuming deep domain knowledge. Each event will start with a 45 minute talk with 15 minutes for questions and a subsequent 30 minute networking session for brainstorming and further discussion. The speakers will be faculty from a number of URI colleges or nearby universities.We are kicking off our fall seminar series with the talk below and are looking forward to see many of you at the seminar!Speaker: Scott Field (Umass Dartmouth) Date/Time/Location: Sept 18, 3pm, Memorial Union room 308. Title: Physics-Informed Machine Learning for Modeling Orbital Dynamics in Binary Black Hole SystemsAbstract: Einstein’s field equations of general relativity are among the most challenging differential equations in physics. They predict that two black holes can collide, producing powerful distortions of spacetime—gravitational waves. The first direct detection of these waves in 2016 marked a historic milestone, recognized by a Nobel Prize. In this talk, I will introduce the problem of binary black hole collisions and the role of gravitational waves. These waves can be studied either by numerically solving Einstein’s equations (the forward problem) or by analyzing experimental detections to infer their sources (the inverse problem). I will present a machine learning framework that discovers the governing dynamical model of binary black hole motion. Our approach begins with universal ordinary differential equations parameterized by feed-forward neural networks, and employs physics-informed constrained optimization to explore a space of plausible models. Applied to a variety of systems, this method enables forward extrapolation and automatically uncovers relativistic effects such as perihelion precession and radiation reaction. I will close by highlighting challenges and opportunities for extending these ideas to other areas of science and engineering.
- Sep 184:00 PMAI Lab Workshop: AI ToolsAI Tools provides a comprehensive introduction to Artificial Intelligence (AI) for students of all disciplines. The course introduces students to various AI tools that can enhance their academic performance and overall college experience. Students will learn how to leverage AI technologies to improve study habits, enhance research skills, and augment their creativity. Through interactive sessions and hands-on activities, students will gain practical knowledge and skills to use AI tools for academic and personal success in college.Zoom Registration Link: https://uri-edu.zoom.us/meeting/register/Vhi5ZF34Tx2PEw92VEZQhA
- Sep 184:00 PMPersistence, Purpose, and the Path to Medicine: A Conversation with Dr. Jeff Ross ’75Join us for an inspiring conversation with URI alumnus Dr. Jeff Ross ’75 as he returns to campus to speak with pre-med and pre-health students.Dr. Ross is known for his honest and engaging talks about the realities of pursuing a medical career, from early challenges and disappointments to eventual success.He shares valuable insights on:What it’s really like to be a medical studentChoosing a medical specialty (the pros and cons)Building persistence and resilience along your pre-med journeyThis is not a lecture: it’s a tailored, student-centered discussion where your questions and interests shape the conversation. Dr. Ross has a unique ability to connect with students year after year, remembering past attendees and continuing the dialogue over time.Whether you’re just starting your pre-med path or preparing for applications, this is a rare opportunity to hear from an alum who has walked the road ahead of you and is eager to share his experiences.Open to all URI pre-med and pre-health studentsDon’t miss the chance to learn, connect, and be inspired!Visit URInvolved for complete event details.
- Sep 185:00 PMCanceled: Start Here: Pre-Health 101 at URINew to Pre-Health at URI? This workshop is for you!Whether you're a first-year student, a transfer, or just starting to explore a future in healthcare, Start Here: Pre-Health 101 at URI will help you understand what it really means to be “pre-health” and how to build a strong foundation from your very first semester.In this interactive 1.5 hour session, you'll learn:What it takes to prepare for careers like medicine, PA, dental, PT, OT, and moreHow to plan your coursework and choose a major (hint: there’s no “right” one)Why clinical, shadowing, and volunteer experiences matterWhat the application process really looks like — and how to be ready when the time comesHow to take advantage of URI’s resources, including advising, workshops, and the PATH processExpect polls, myth-busting, and practical tools you can use right away. You’ll leave with a clear plan for your next steps and a better understanding of how to make the most of your time at URI as a future healthcare professional.We strongly suggest you attend one of these workshops prior to making an appointment with Pre-Health Career Pathways. You should get all of your questions answered by attending.Visit URInvolved for complete event details.
- Sep 185:00 PMCancelled: Start Here: Pre-Health 101 at URIUnfortunately, this has been cancelled. However, we will still record and send out in next week's newsletter, and in the Pre-Health Brightspace page. Thank you!New to Pre-Health at URI? This workshop is for you!Whether you're a first-year student, a transfer, or just starting to explore a future in healthcare, Start Here: Pre-Health 101 at URI will help you understand what it really means to be “pre-health” and how to build a strong foundation from your very first semester.In this interactive 1.5 hour session, you'll learn:What it takes to prepare for careers like medicine, PA, dental, PT, OT, and moreHow to plan your coursework and choose a major (hint: there’s no “right” one)Why clinical, shadowing, and volunteer experiences matterWhat the application process really looks like — and how to be ready when the time comesHow to take advantage of URI’s resources, including advising, workshops, and the PATH processExpect polls, myth-busting, and practical tools you can use right away. You’ll leave with a clear plan for your next steps and a better understanding of how to make the most of your time at URI as a future healthcare professional.We strongly suggest you attend one of these workshops prior to making an appointment with Pre-Health Career Pathways. You should get all of your questions answered by attending.