Message from the Natural Science Divisional Dean
Welcome to the Natural Science Division. The faculty and staff of our division are
delighted that you are exploring the programs, research, and opportunities we offer.
We appreciate your interest in our programs, whether you are a prospective student
evaluating your academic path, a current student advancing your knowledge, or an alumnus
maintaining your connection to our scientific community.
At the core of the Natural Science Division is a distinguished group of faculty members
who collaborate across disciplines in teaching and research, always putting the education
of our students first. Through direct faculty mentorship, our students are encouraged
to grow in their knowledge, develop practical skills, and seek truth using the tools
of scientific inquiry, logical reasoning, and quantitative analysis. The mission of
Seaver College and our heritage in the Churches of Christ encourage us to pursue academic
excellence as well as the truth in every discipline without fear of investigation.
Ultimately, we strive to cultivate a community of belonging for all students who wish
to pursue a degree in the sciences.
Teaching
I am proud to be a faculty member alongside the division’s accomplished and innovative
teachers who demonstrate exceptional skill in the classroom. Many of our faculty have
been recognized with university and national teaching awards. In both our general
education and STEM major courses, we build scientific literacy and help students develop
as scientists. Our facilities allow our students to engage in authentic research
experiences as part of their overall education. We continue to innovate as teachers
by using high-impact practices to prepare students for the highly-competitive employment
market as well as graduate and professional programs.
Scholarly Activities
At the core of our STEM programs are opportunities for students to work alongside
faculty mentors on original research projects in our laboratories as well as in the
field. Our students gain valuable skills as they conduct research and make new discoveries.
We support our students in research through grants from the National Science Foundation
and National Institutes of Health as well as endowments from the Flora L. Thornton
Foundation and Stauffer Charitable Trust. Our students present their research at local,
national and international conferences and publish their results in academic journals.
As a result, many of our students attend top graduate schools in science and pursue
careers in health sciences. Our students have also earned National Science Foundation
Graduate Research Fellowships, Fulbright Fellowships, and a Rhodes Scholarship.
Beyond the Classroom
The faculty of the Natural Science Division cultivate authentic connections with students
outside the classroom and laboratory with a variety of transformational experiences.
Students’ lives are enriched by experiences in the Santa Monica Mountains and local
beaches, service learning with K-12 students, volunteer work, and capstone projects.
In addition, faculty express their care for students through spiritual mentorships,
hosting dinners in their homes, and leading small groups. These opportunities cultivate
a sense of belonging for students and enrich their undergraduate experience.
After Graduation
The Natural Science Division fulfills the mission of Pepperdine by preparing students
for lives of purpose, service, and leadership. Our graduates pursue higher degrees
as well as careers in medicine and industry. We have an excellent track record of
success in admissions to top medical, dental, law, and graduate schools. Our students
not only gain scientific knowledge and quantitative skills, but also resilience, creativity,
and flexibility that will aid in their success. Through faculty mentorship our students
discover their passions and vocation so they can find fulfilling careers in which
they make an impact on our world.
Timothy Lucas
Divisional Dean of Natural Science
Professor of Mathematics