University of Arizona College of Agriculture, Life & Environmental Sciences

Curiosity drives discovery.

For Ben Yang and Kimber Focke, that curiosity starts in the soil.

In the first episode of Science at Work, they share how studying tiny molecules and microbial activity in desert environments can reveal new insights about the world beneath our feet and the systems that sustain life above it.

Watch their story and see science at work.



Watch now: https://bit.ly/4ejBjtr

Science at Work: Tiny Signals Beneath Our Feet Science at Work is a new CALES video series that takes viewers behi...

Congratulations again to the class of 2026! 🎓❤️💙🐻⬇️

Congratulations to Alexa Laporte on being recognized as the Outstanding Senior in Applied Biotechnology!

“After transferring from Pima Community College with my A.S. in Biology, I chose Applied Biotechnology at UA to explore how biology can be applied in the real world. Early on, Dr. Samantha Orchard became an important mentor, and her courses, especially PLS 340 Biotechnology Lab, really confirmed that I was on the right path. I later had the opportunity to serve as a preceptor for this course.

I also joined an environmental microbiology lab, mentored by Dr. David Hogan and Dr. Priyanka Kushwaha, where I contributed to the investigation of biosurfactants for the remediation of mining-impacted waters, an experience that shaped my interests and helped guide me toward environmental research.

Beyond academics, I’ve been supported by an incredible community, including my advisor Daniel Jimenez and the ASEMS STARS program, led by Leah Callovini. These experiences helped me grow, build confidence, and gain a clearer sense of where I want to go next.”

After graduating, Alexa will pursue a master’s degree in environmental engineering.

Congratulations to Isabella Ducey on being recognized as the Outstanding Senior in Nutritional Sciences!

“My favorite part of being a CALES student is that there is always an opportunity or experience for students to learn and have fun! As a Nutritional Sciences student, I became a NOURISH scholar, where I gained hands-on experience in community nutrition and research. During my junior and senior year this meant working at the Tucson Village Farm, where I was surrounded by joy, kids, chickens, and fresh fruits and veggies! It was an absolute dream to be able to wake up and be grounded in nature and fun at the Tucson Village Farm! My senior year I was part of a mycology lab at the CEAC where I partnered with the CALES Brewing Lab to grow mushrooms off of brewing waste! I even was able to intern at a local craft brewery- Crooked Tooth. Beyond all, I am most grateful for the innovation taking place at CALES; within the School of Nutritional Sciences & Wellness, there is a Weight-Inclusive Health Minor offered, a minor that is not seen almost anywhere else! I am so happy to have been introduced to inclusive care, as it is the space I want to continue working in.”

After graduation, Isabella will continue her Wildcat journey and pursue her master’s degree in marketing at Eller!

Congratulations to Isa Ross on being recognized as the Outstanding Senior in Natural Resources and recipient of the Exceptional Academic Performance & Service to the University award.

“More than anything, CALES has allowed me to find and follow my passion, in any and every way that brought me joy and fulfillment. From engaging courses with extremely supportive professors, to designing and executing my own research project, and traveling around the world, CALES has empowered me to explore a diverse array of opportunities that helped me grow in so many ways.

I’m so fortunate to have had an internship every year during my time in CALES, exploring coastal ecology in Puerto Rico, experiencing international conservation in Namibia, and advocating for environmental policy back home in the Sonoran Desert. I also have great pride in my time as secretary for the UA Fish & Wildlife Society, where I met some of my best friends, volunteered on so many different projects, and helped form a community of wildlife enthusiasts across not only CALES, but any major. I am truly grateful and will always cherish the wonderful memories I’ve made in CALES.”

After graduation, Isa will work as a wildlife technician before returning for her master's degree in community ecology, with a focus on understanding endangered species’ habitat needs and advocating for less charismatic species.

Congratulations to Rieta Brambila-Lim on being recognized as the Outstanding Senior in Human Development & Family Science!

“As an HDFS major, I was prepared to become a well-rounded healthcare provider because I learned about human life across the lifespan through an interdisciplinary approach and gained a comprehensive understanding of prevention strategies. CALES also provided me with genuine connections to my peers, professors, and faculty, whose support throughout my college journey set me up for success in the real world. Lastly, it was because of CALES that I was introduced to Tu Nidito, Mission Garden, and Upsilon Theta Sigma, organizations that gave me community and shaped me in all aspects of my life—as an individual, as a student, and as an aspiring healthcare professional. I have absolutely no regrets, and I will cherish the memories I've made forever.”

After graduation, Rieta will take a gap year to gain skills and experience working as a clinic assistant at Genesis Natural Medicine and save money before applying to higher education to become a doctor of acupuncture and oriental medicine.

Congratulations to Nathan Farris on being recognized as the Outstanding Senior in Environmental Science (AZ Online Campus)!

“My experience at the University of Arizona studying Environmental Science has been an exciting and pleasant experience overall. I had some challenging times, but once I overcame those challenges, the sense of accomplishment gained was well worth it. Thinking back on the past 4 years of study, I can recall memories of digging up soil in my backyard for a soils lab, frantically studying for an algebra exam, and riffling through my own trash to gather data for an experiment. I wouldn’t have wanted to study any other field though. I enjoy working outside in nature, with my hands, but I also wanted to challenge my mind. A degree in the CALES department I think got me the closest experience possible to what I had in mind when I first decided I wanted to attend college at U of A. Thanks to all those that helped me succeed during this pursuit of knowledge, I couldn’t have done it without the supportive teachers in the CALES department.”

After graduation, Nathan will return to full-time work and pursue a graduate degree at the U of A in the future!

Congratulations to Rosaelba Soto Robles on being recognized as the Outstanding Senior in Sustainable Plant Systems (Yuma)!

“During my time at CALES I have learned the importance of being resilient. It has been a challenging but rewarding learning experience. I have met many people who have helped make a positive impact on my career and provided the support I needed to complete my education. Those who have inspired me the most are my former employer Dr. Bindu Poudel-Ward who harbored my passion for plant pathology along with my current employer Macey Keith who has taught me to push through adverse situations. I am beyond thankful for these experiences that helped shape my career.”

After graduating, Rosaelba plans to work in industry and one day continue her education.