Center for Research in Science
Collaboration, Connection, Creativity
The Center for Research in Science (CRIS) serves a community of students, scholars, and laypersons by promoting research that encompasses and extends the scope of scientific studies to address the inseparable relationships between science, faith, and culture. In addition, the role of science in a classical liberal arts education, and the ancient dialogue between faith and reason, are considered.
CRIS also encourages student and faculty research by arranging intra- and extramural internships, inviting visiting scientists to engage with students on campus, and working to establish synergistic partnerships with local businesses and organizations.
Message from the Director
In this age of science and technology, many flock to science for answers, yet most are not ready for the questions science raises. As 21st century scholars of faith, we cannot afford to merely study the facts of science and dismiss the ethics behind scientific endeavors. The cultivation of a global Christian worldview, together with a willingness to address relevant yet challenging issues that are scientific in nature but global in impact, seems necessary and urgent.
I believe that this is an exciting time, and that CRIS has an opportunity to advance scientific endeavors that promote the betterment of the Azusa Pacific community as well as neighboring communities.
Through facilitating faculty-student mentoring in research, connecting students with STEM internships, encouraging creativity in learning, and promoting science, CRIS can offer holistic and transformative approaches to science education. I am privileged to lead CRIS in fulfilling its multifaceted role while pointing to God’s manifold wisdom in this next season.
I cordially invite you to join us in the many upcoming opportunities and events. I look forward to seeing you!
Sincerely,
Louise Ko Huang, Ph.D.
Assistant Dean, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences; Director, Center for Research
in Science
About CRIS
CRIS envisions impacting society by equipping students for scientific endeavors, advancing science in the community, and engaging scholars to explore the interface between science and other academic disciplines.
CRIS is committed to scientific excellence and a Christian perspective of truth and life. By fostering scientific collaborations, connections, and creativity, CRIS seeks to advance STEM presence at Azusa Pacific University and in the surrounding community.
The Center for Research in Science (CRIS) was founded in 1998 as an academic unit of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at Azusa Pacific University. Upon its opening, CRIS functioned as a touchstone for theologians and scientists.
In 2000, CRIS entered a formative stage under the directorship of Leslie Wickman, PhD Wickman led CRIS in serving students, scholars, and laypersons by promoting scientific inquiry through research, supporting excellence in science education, and encouraging the dialogue between faith and science. The Science, Faith, and Culture lecture series featured numerous renowned Christian scientists, theologians, and ministers; brought about meaningful discussions regarding science and faith; and were well-received by members of the community at large, near and far. In 2015, Wickman launched the Re-Imagine contest on the Azusa Pacific campus, raising awareness of environmental stewardship and bringing about innovation on sustainability.
Today, CRIS continues to serve in many ways the STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) students and faculty on campus, and acts as a STEM liaison between Azusa Pacific and neighboring communities, fulfilling its role in learning, researching, and promoting science.
- Enson Chang, PhD
Associate Professor, Department of Mathematics, Physics, and Statistics - Donald Isaak, PhD
Executive Director, Office of Research and Grants
Adjunct Professor, Department of Mathematics, Physics, and Statistics - Jon Milhon, PhD
Professor, Department of Biology and Chemistry - Sarah Richart, PhD
Professor, Department of Biology and Chemistry - George Thomas, PhD
Professor, Department of Engineering and Computer Science - Rico Vitz, PhD
Professor, Department of Philosophy - Jennifer Young, PhD
Associate Professor, Department of Biology and Chemistry
Past Events
CRIS Lecture | Science & Humanities: Bridging Two Cultures - Mitch Stokes, PhD
What is Human? An Exposition on Imago Dei
How Does Science Impact Racial (In)Equity? Practices, Disparities, and Policies in Healthcare
How Does Science Impact Racial (In)Equity? Christianity, Race, and the God of BioMedical Science
Math and Human Flourishing
Augustine’s Beginnings: Creating the Idea of a Natural World and Reforming the Problem of Evil
Shalom in a Changing Climate
What is Intelligence? The Science and Christian Philosophy of Human Versus Artificial Intelligence
Gene Editing: Who Draws the Line? - CRIS Lecture
CRIS Gene Editing: Who Draws the Line- Panel
Marijuana: Friend or Foe?
