Biological & Ecological Engineering
An innovative approach to sustainable systems

Oregon State leads the field
Biological and ecological engineering deals with diverse issues in the design and analysis of a wide range of biological and hydrologic systems. By incorporating biological and ecological principles into engineering design, the field promotes the development of resilient, sustainable systems that integrate human activities into the natural environment to the benefit of both.
Oregon State is a leader in this rapidly developing and important new area of engineering. Our program provides a unique and innovative approach to engineering sustainable systems that are environmentally friendly while addressing human needs for food, water, and energy.
Degree Types
Locations
Corvallis
Our Faculty
Explore our faculty's expertise and research.
Contact our industry relations team to discuss partnerships and other opportunities.
Research Areas
The Biological & Ecological Engineering Department has ongoing research in three main areas:
Biological Engineering
Biological sciences inform the development of engineering processes and devices
Ecological Engineering
Designing sustainable systems in concert and consistent with ecological principles
Water Resource Engineering
Addressing a wide range of contemporary issues of water quality and quantity
Fostering Innovation

Integrating human activities into natural environments
Biological and ecological engineers thrive at the intersection of life sciences and engineering.
- Developing strategies to mitigate or reduce environmental impacts
- Leading initiatives to restore natural habitats
- Designing and promoting sustainable urban infrastructure
- Collaborating on efforts to conserve biodiversity

The historic dam removals on the Klamath River
Oregon State is leading a collaborative effort studying the Klamath River’s response to the removal of four large dams.

Combining solar energy and agriculture
Chad Higgins’ research in agrivoltaics explores the use of land to simultaneously optimize crop growth and generate solar power.
Degree Types
Locations
Corvallis
Our Faculty
Explore our faculty's expertise and research.
Get in Touch
Partnerships
Contact our industry relations team to discuss partnerships and other opportunities.