UC Davis discoveries in
social science

We research to discover what makes us human. Our innovations have rewritten history textbooks and changed our understanding of human relationships.

a woodcut illustration of three hands holding each other

Turning the art world
on its head

In postwar America, abstract expressionism ruled the east coast art scene. But in the 1960s, some of the nation’s most significant artists sparked a rebellion that reverberated from the west coast outward – and put UC Davis’s new Department of Art on the map.

More about this discovery
UC Davis artist Robert Arneson stands outside of the infamous TB9 art building, the home of major artistic innovations

Rethinking prehistoric
gender roles

For centuries, historians and scientists mostly agreed that when early human groups sought food, men hunted and women gathered. However, a 9,000-year-old female hunter burial discovered in the Andes Mountains of what is now Peru may have changed science forever.

More about this discovery
An illustration of a neolithic female hunter hurling projectiles via an attle attle

Revealing the
science of romantic love

For Phillip Shaver, distinguished professor emeritus of psychology, it started with a study he co-authored in 1987 on romantic love that would transform the study of interpersonal relations.

More about this discovery
A computer generated image of to people kissing with glowing brains
Back to discoveries home

More from UC Davis

Science & Climate

UC Davis is applying its collective strengths in science, engineering, art and design to the problem of climate change and a warming planet.

An illustration of a tree

Feeding a Growing Population

Connecting our research and expertise to the effort to feed a growing population under a changing climate.

An illustration of a farmer picking a tomato

Advancing Health Worldwide

Advancing the study of medicine as a worldwide leader in human health and veterinary sciences.

Two hands grasping each other

Driven by Curiosity

Answering foundational questions about our world, showcasing research that transcends science, technology, arts and humanities, and social sciences.

An egghead illustration with its face buried in a book