The University of Waterloo’s Faculty of Science is advancing discovery, educating future leaders, and tackling global challenges.
Science at Waterloo is a global leader in research that pushes the boundaries of knowledge and imagination. From black holes and quantum computing to ensuring the health of our Great Lakes and creating new materials, medications and vision care, our research leads to disruptive innovations that will ensure a healthy and sustainable future.
Our Vision
Advancing society through scientific discovery and innovation.
Our Mission
To lead in learning and discovery by fostering an inclusive environment that pushes boundaries through curiosity and leverages different perspectives to magnify our impact.
Our Values
These values are the fundamental beliefs that underpin the Faculty of Science’s culture and behaviour.
Collaboration
We inspire, motivate, and guide each other to shape the future of science. We accept the different goals and needs of others, support each other in achieving these goals, and recognize achievement in all its forms.
Leadership
We push boundaries in all that we do. Our actions set an example within our local communities and around the world.
Inclusion
We are a faculty where all individuals feel respected, accepted, and are able to access a full spectrum of opportunities. We strive to promote open dialogue and learn from our differences.
Curiosity
We are inquisitive and passionate about scientific discovery, encouraging the Faculty and its community to be creative, explore the unknown, and take risks in the pursuit of knowledge.
Discover what’s new in Science
Explore our latest research breakthroughs, student achievements, and faculty updates on our news page.
News
Simulating landfill methane hot spots in the lab
Environmental Sciences student Olivia Penn is designing and conducting experiments to better understand microbial methane oxidation capacity in landfill cover soils.
Waterloo alumni turn research skills into a game of exploration and discovery
Two Waterloo alumni are turning the curiosity, collaboration and problem-solving skills they developed through graduate research into a new entrepreneurial venture and board game, Tokelau.
Science that matters: Master’s student is developing a bacteria-responsive coating for food to protect against foodborne illness
Recent Listeria outbreaks have many Canadians paying closer attention to food recalls while grocery shopping. Henry Abanum, a Master of Science in Pharmacy student, aims to improve food safety by developing a bacteria-responsive coating for food contact materials that integrates toxin detection with on-demand antimicrobial delivery.
Events
Chemistry Seminar Series: Haissi Cui
Tools, models, and applications for the study of tRNAs and aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases
Haissi Cui
Assistant Professor Department of Chemistry
University of Toronto
October 20, 2026
11:00 a.m.
In-person: C2-361
Quantum Matters Seminar: Thomas Vojta
Interwoven long-range order induced by random fields
Thomas Vojta
Missouri University of Science and Technology
Wednesday, October 21, 2026
2:30 p.m.
In-person: QNC 1201
Therapy Dogs
Need a study break? Sunshine Therapy Dogs are here to help you de-stress and reset - stop by, say hi, and leave with a smile!
This event is exclusively for Science students. Visits will be 5 minutes per student, we will do our best to accommodate as many students as we can.
When: Wednesday, October 21
Where: STC 2002