Science That Matters Now

We are Nevada’s non-profit research institute, founded in 1959 to empower experts to focus on science that matters. We work with communities across the state –and the world– to address their most pressing scientific questions.

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.

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DRI Scientists Work to Protect Miner Health and Safety Across Nevada

To help protect miners and assist mine managers in reducing hazardous exposures, DRI scientists Xiaoliang Wang, Judy Chow, and John Watson are conducting free trainings to raise awareness about health risks and effective protection methods. Data from the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) show that as much as 27% of miners are overexposed to air contaminants.

Tiffany and Tsvetelina holding the seedling guide in front of a blooming desert plant with yellow flowers.

Tiffany Pereira Blends Art and Science in New Mojave Seedling Guide

The ecologist and illustrator created a first-of-its-kind seedling guide to help land managers and community members identify native plant seeds and aid with restoration work. DRI sat down with Pereira for more information about her goals and inspiration for the project, the benefits of fusing art with science, and the miracles contained in the tiniest seeds.

Las Vegas Grand Prix logo over an aerial view of the track lit up a night.

DRI Launches New Corporate Partners Program

DRI is thrilled to announce that Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix is our first official Corporate Partner. “Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix is excited to join DRI’s Corporate Partners program. This partnership aligns well with our sustainability goals and we look forward to working with DRI in the year ahead.” – Lori Nelson-Kraft, Senior Vice President of Corporate Affairs, Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix.

Curiosity Lab by DRI with a yellow circle with a sunburst pattern.

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.
Learn more and purchase tickets!

All Upcoming Events

World Environment Day | DRI 2024

Support Science that Matters Now

Your support enables DRI scientists to dream bigger and grow their ideas into impactful solutions that benefit us all.

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.

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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.

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Hydrologic Sciences

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

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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.

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Education & Workforce Development

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

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Environmental Research Areas

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

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40 Laboratories and Facilities

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

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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.