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Rock Star Turned Soil Scientist Featured at OSU-Cascades Science Pub
James Cassidy, an award-winning instructor and soil expert, will present 'The Amazing Story of Soil' at the upcoming event.
Published on Mar. 5, 2026
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The earth beneath our feet will be the topic of Oregon State University – Cascades' Science Pub on March 17 when rock star turned soil scientist James Cassidy presents 'The Amazing Story of Soil.' Cassidy is an award-winning instructor and soil expert in OSU's College of Agricultural Sciences, and prior to his academic career, he played bass for the popular '80s band Information Society.
Why it matters
This event provides an opportunity for the local community to learn about the importance of soil conservation and the global impact of soil health from an expert in the field who has an interesting background as a former rock star.
The details
In his talk, Cassidy will explore how soils form, what nutrients are, how soils store water and nutrients, and how plants and animals carry traces of soil within them. He'll also discuss the global importance of soil conservation. The Science Pub will take place from 5:30 to 7:15 p.m. in the Charles McGrath Family Atrium in Edward J. Ray Hall at OSU-Cascades, and registration is required.
- The Science Pub will take place on March 17, 2026.
- Doors open at 5:30 p.m. for networking and dining, and the presentation will follow at 6 p.m.
The players
James Cassidy
An award-winning instructor and soil expert in OSU's College of Agricultural Sciences, and the founder of OSU's two-acre student-run farm in Corvallis.
Information Society
A popular '80s band that Cassidy played bass for prior to his academic career.
What’s next
Registration for the event is required and can be completed at beav.es/science-pub-soil. OSU-Cascades employees and students should contact events@osucacades.edu for tickets.
The takeaway
This event provides a unique opportunity for the local community to learn about the importance of soil conservation and the global impact of soil health from an expert in the field who has an interesting background as a former rock star, highlighting the diverse paths that can lead to careers in science and academia.
