Origins: Columbia Science Commits

Science is fundamentally about discovery. Harnessing tools and methods to understand what had previously been mysteries, scientists are detectives seeking to understand the world around us and add to humankind’s collective knowledge.

The Columbia University Origins Institute seeks to bring our unique talents from diverse fields ranging from physics to psychology, paired with expertise in philosophy, law, and religion, to understand the universe and our place within it. Centered on three fundamental Origins themes — Origins of the Universe, Origins of Life, and Origins of Consciousness — we are positioned to study and address some of the most fundamental questions humans have asked about ourselves and our place within the cosmos.

In this video, scientists Brian Greene, Caleb Scharf, and Elena Aprile explain their research and how the Origins Institute will lead to a greater understanding of the universe around us.