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Source of Arctic Mercury Pollution Identified in New Study
Researchers monitored mercury levels at Toolik Field Station, northern Alaska, in part, with this meteorological tower (foreground). Credit: Daniel Oberist, DRI. DRI research team part of international effort to understand global impact Reno, Nev. (July 14, 2017):...
DRI Researchers Identify Connection Between Atmospheric River Events and Avalanche Fatalities in Western United States
RENO, Nev. (July 14, 2017) - Recently published research led by atmospheric scientists at the Desert Research Institute (DRI) demonstrates a connection between the occurrence of atmospheric river (AR) events and avalanche fatalities in the West. Published in the...
DRI secures $47 million to continue work for U.S. Department of Energy
LAS VEGAS, Nev. (May 18, 2017): Building on more than 40 years of service to the U.S. Department of Energy, the Desert Research Institute (DRI) announced today it has been awarded a long-term research contract to support the national security mission of the Nevada...
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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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.