Portland Science Night - November 2025

Reality Re-imagined:
Exploring New Media with the Oregon Reality Lab

Emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and augmented reality (AR) are seemingly everywhere, but how do we use this evolving technology for the greatest good? That’s the focus of this fall’s Portland Science Night, hosted by the UO Alumni Association and PDX Ducks chapter.  

We’ll be joined by UO Professor Daniel Pimentel, whose research explores topics like cross-reality media platforms, immersive storytelling, and body transfer—the psychological feeling that your virtual body is your physical body. Discover how Dr. Pimentel’s work has contributed to behavior change—like the simulation he designed spurring environmental action by putting people in the body of a loggerhead sea turtle. Plus, see what his team is working on next, and discuss the impacts of this technology and research on society and culture. 

After the talk, attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and then have some immersive experiences themselves, using technology from the Oregon Reality Lab. This event promises fascinating conversation, delicious food, and fun experiences with new and emerging technology. Learn something new and celebrate the sciences with us! 

• Who should attend: Open to all UO Alumni Association Members ($10), non-members ($15), and current students ($5). Tickets sold in advance and at the door.
• What’s included: All attendees will receive two drink tickets redeemable for cocktails, beer, wine, or non-alcoholic drinks. Heavy appetizers will be provided.

Featured Professor:
Daniel Pimentel, Assistant Professor of Immersive Psychology

Registration

$15 for UOAA members
$20 for nonmembers
$5 for current students 

Registration includes two drink tickets redeemable for beer, wine, or non-alcoholic drinks. 

 Parking

Parking is available on campus and the parking permit signs that are displayed are not enforced for event guests. There are also street parking available on Northeast Liberty Street and along Northeast 29th Avenue.

Meet Our Speaker

Daniel Pimentel
Assistant Professor of Immersive Psychology, University of Oregon

Daniel Pimentel is an assistant professor of immersive media psychology at the University of Oregon’s School of Journalism and Communication in Portland. Dr. Pimentel’s research focuses on cross-reality media platforms, such as virtual reality, augmented reality, and mixed reality. He examines how cross-reality storytelling experiences can affect behavior change across various contexts, including climate action, wildlife conservation, and mental/physical well-being. Learn more about his work here.