We envision a world in which trust between scientists and the public forms the basis for a more sustainable and resilient environment for all people to live, grow, and prosper.
DRI launches cybersecurity internship program in collaboration with SANS Institute
Program now accepting applications for 2018 Reno, NV (Tuesday, April 24, 2018): From malware infections to attacks on critical infrastructure like electricity grids, cybercrime is a growing concern across all industries and sectors of our world – and the prevention...
Ancient ‘quids’ reveal genetic information, clues into migration patterns of early Great Basin inhabitants
Above: Cave opening at the Mule Springs Rockshelter in southern Nevada's Spring Mountain Range. Credit: Jeffrey Wedding, DRI. Las Vegas, NV (April 24, 2018): If you want to know about your ancestors today, you can send a little saliva to a company where –...
OAL Participates in Toxic Metals Monitoring Campaign
Dave Campbell, Associate Research Scientist at the DRI's Division of Atmospheric Sciences and the Organic Analytical Lab member, participated in a 5-week long monitoring campaign near Paramount, CA, sponsored by the South Coast Air Quality Management District and...
DRI presents a series of community-based events across Nevada that celebrate how science shapes our lives, fuels creativity, and deepens our understanding of the world by underscoring the transformative power of curiosity and knowledge.
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All Upcoming Events
More than 60 years of scientific discovery and innovation, in Nevada and around the world
Since 1959, the faculty, students, and staff at the Desert Research Institute (DRI) have advanced scientific knowledge to help solve pressing environmental challenges and improve human health. With more than 600 employees, over 300 projects on all seven continents, and two world-class research campuses in Reno and Las Vegas, DRI serves as one of the eight institutions in the Nevada System of Higher Education.

Atmospheric Sciences
Research and services related to air quality and associated health risks, climate, cloud and aerosol physics, renewable energy, fire science, and atmospheric dynamics.

Hydrologic Sciences
Research, development, and education services contributing to society’s fundamental understanding of hydrologic systems and advancing the sustainability of water resources.

Earth & Ecosystem Sciences
Research in the life & earth sciences, particularly those dealing with the complex interactions of geological processes, organisms, biological communities, and human societies.

Education & Workforce Development
Training Nevada's K-12 teachers and providing professional development opportunities and training for education-based activities.

Environmental Research Areas
DRI faculty and staff work in over 40 scientific fields on all seven continents.

40 Laboratories and Facilities
DRI has more than 40 specialized labs and facilities on research campuses in Reno and Las Vegas.

60 Years of Scientific Excellence
Since 1959, DRI has contributed to solving our toughest environmental challenges.
As a non-profit, we rely on your support.
By making a gift to DRI, you’re providing the resources our scientists need to better understand and address the challenges posed by our changing planet.