About Us

Our programs encompass all of the academic disciplines
that touch on biological life.

VCU Life Sciences is a unique combination of academic units with more than 300 undergraduate, 40 graduate and 50 PhD students. More than 30 full-time and adjunct faculty provide a robust combination of research opportunities and experiences.

Our faculty research represents the full spectrum of biological sciences from cell biology, through reptile evolution, genetics and avian ecology. We teach courses in wetlands ecology, population genetics, molecular genetics, mathematical biology, physical geology, outdoor leadership, urban food systems, cartography, data systems and literacy, GIS and many more environmental topics.

Our alumni are employed around the world at institutions including NASA, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources, Virginia Institute for Marine Science, and National Geographic, and advise policymakers for federal and state environmental agencies. 

Our Mission

Our mission is to enable nimble, cutting-edge education and research in the life sciences.

Our Vision

Our faculty and staff are committed to integrative and dynamic scholarship and we will continue to seek novel approaches to address scientific challenges.

  • Integrate life sciences teaching, research and service across the entire VCU campus
  • Offer a highly interdisciplinary approach to research, instruction and service
  • Combine the strengths of the university with those of local businesses, industry, government and community organizations to create and nurture partnerships
  • Initiate activities and events at the local, regional and national levels to increase public discovery and literacy in the life sciences