researcher on the beach  holding up water specimens.

Research

A global research university with an uncommon emphasis on undergraduate research and education, UC Santa Cruz is part of the world’s most celebrated system of public higher education, and stands among the most renowned institutions of higher learning.


Research news

Illustration of a supernova X-ray blast wave. (Credit: NASA/CXC/M. Weiss)

Cosmic radiation from supernova may have altered virus evolution in Africa

A new study examined iron isotopes to identify a 2.5-million-year-old supernova. The researchers connected this stellar explosion to a surge of radiation that pummeled Earth around the same time, and they assert that the blast was powerful enough to break the DNA of living creatures.

Assistant Professor Pallab Sarker collects rainbow trout raised as part of a feed development experiment at UC Santa Cruz's ecological aquaculture lab. Photo: Nick Gonzalez

How microalgae could help advance sustainable trout farming

UCSC researchers created an aquaculture feed for rainbow trout that replaces traditional fishmeal ingredients sourced from wild-caught fish with leftover marine microalgae from the human dietary supplement industry, aiming to expand food production while also taking pressure off of wild fish stocks.

Coyote tracks and drag marks at MacKerricher State Beach, north of Fort Bragg. (Photo by Sarah Grimes, Noyo Center for Marine Science)

Study confirms scientists’ suspicions on missing baby seals

A paper published in the journal Ecology details how researchers used motion-triggered cameras placed at a beach on California’s North Coast to catch coyotes in the act of devouring harbor seal pups.

Real-world experience

Undergraduates have the unique opportunity to participate in world-class research, both creative and scientific, at UC Santa Cruz. Both undergrad and graduate students gain academic experience and career exploration as they engage in the pursuit of knowledge.

person building a research device.

Research with impact


Student working in a lab using a pipette


Research programs and units

The campus’s research activities range from small groups within academic departments to large units with connections outside UC Santa Cruz.


Research support

The Office of Research is dedicated to working collaboratively with the UC Santa Cruz community to advance research and demonstrate its impact.

Two people posing for the camera with the ocean in the background and a drone hovering over them.
3 students outside the science and engineering library.

University library


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Last modified: Mar 14, 2025