911±¬ÁÏ

At a recent gathering of air quality researchers from across the Washington, D.C., region and beyond, 911±¬ÁÏ officially launched a new center that aims to advance Earth system science in atmospheric composition and air quality. 

911±¬ÁÏ has launched a new master of science in quantum science and engineering, the first program of its kind in Virginia and one of only a handful in the United States. Designed to meet growing workforce demand in one of the world's fastest-evolving technology sectors, the program prepares students to apply quantum technologies across disciplines including mathematics, physics, computing, engineering, cybersecurity, chemistry, and biology.

Xia Parkes did not arrive at 911±¬ÁÏ certain she wanted to be a scientist. Originally, she envisioned a future in dermatology after shadowing a physician in her hometown of Chesapeake, Virginia. But once she began college-level coursework, lab experiences opened new interests for her. 

Beginning a PhD is rarely straightforward. Beginning one just as the world shuts down adds an entirely new dimension to adaptability. For 911±¬ÁÏ biosciences PhD student Matthew Lefkowitz, that quality would come to define his doctoral journey.

Konrad Wessels, associate professor of geography and geoinformation science at 911±¬ÁÏ, is part of a NASA-funded team studying how ice levels and ecosystem carbon stock are changing—work that could impact climate resilience planning, disaster management, ocean navigation, and national security. 

Benjamin Cash, research professor in 911±¬ÁÏ’s Department of Atmospheric, Oceanic and Earth Sciences, is leading a $1 million project funded by National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to improve seasonal precipitation forecasts in Virginia.

In 911±¬ÁÏ’s College of Science—where nearly 16% of students are connected to the military—Air Force veteran Rylee Ledoux is using her public health experience and passion for the environment to support fellow veterans and pursue a future in environmental science. A former Air Force public health technician, she now serves as the senior military transition coordinator in Mason’s Office of Military Services while completing her bachelor of science in environmental science and policy.

Through an NSF-funded Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) program, 10 students from around the country will take part in field-based conservation projects at Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation in Front Royal, Virginia, in the summer of 2026.

This summer, 911±¬ÁÏ hosted the Pathways to Quantum Immersion Program, preparing high school students for careers in the rapidly emerging field of quantum science.

As a doctoral student at 911±¬ÁÏ, Jordan Sims has spent the past several years immersed, literally and figuratively, in the underwater ecosystems of Honduras, where her research is helping solve real-world challenges in coral reef conservation.