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Nature Engagement Studies Lab
NEST Lab
Nature Engagement Studies
NEST Lab Mission and Goals
At the NEST Lab, we hatch innovative ideas to enhance well-being through nature engagement and optimize built environments for wellness, healing, productivity, and learning. We also study emotional and behavioral responses to environmental changes, using our research to develop practical solutions and programs that benefit diverse communities. Our goal is to create environments where all people can thrive.
Lab Lead
Dr. Sabine Huemer is an environmental psychologist who studies the effects of nature, natural elements, and environmental challenges on cognitive processes and mental wellbeing. Dr. Huemer holds a Ph.D. from the Department of Cognitive Sciences at the University of California, Irvine, and is a trained Nature Health Coach certified by the University of Munich, Germany in collaboration with the German Kneipp Physicians Association. Dr. Huemer is founding member of OSU’s Nature Rx Alliance, member of the Carbon Commitment Committee of the OSU Faculty Senate, and the Climate Advisory Board of the city of Corvallis.
Dr. Huemer won the 2025 Annual Teaching Award from the American Psychological Association, Div 34 - Society for Environmental, Population, and Conservation Psychology for her coursework in Climate Psychology.