Faculty Research News

In her new book, “Cervantes y las joyas” (“Cervantes and Jewels”), VCU author Mar Martínez-Góngora (Davis) explores the 16th- and 17th-century writer’s use of jewels and gems. (Contributed photo)

VCU author examines symbolic use of jewels in Cervantes’ work

March 27, 2025

In her new book, School of World Studies professor Mar Martínez-Góngora highlights the many facets of the ‘Don Quixote’ author’s works.

Dominic Ongwen, a former child soldier who became an extremist commander, was found guilty in 2021 by the International Criminal Court in The Hague, Netherlands. (Getty Images)

For war crimes defendants, media coverage can reflect how audiences see ‘local justice’ and ‘international justice’ differently

March 10, 2025

Exploring the court case of an abducted child soldier who became an extremist commander, VCU professors Jessica Trisko Darden and Amanda Wintersieck see a framework for understanding harsher perceptions at home.

New research by Baobao Song, Ph.D., finds that celebrity endorsements from South Korean boy band BTS and other celebrities can push their fans to take action. (Photo: AJEONG_JM, Wikimedia Commons)

Celebrity endorsements can drive advocacy by fans, VCU researcher finds

March 6, 2025

Examining the popular South Korean boy band BTS and their preferred causes, the study found three factors that shape the behavior of their devoted followers.

The rise or fall of utility-scale solar could dramatically change Virginia’s energy portfolio. (Getty Images)

VCU researchers assess land impacts of Virginia’s solar industry — now and in the future

March 3, 2025

Large-scale ‘solar farms’ currently occupy more than 30,000 acres as the state’s energy portfolio continues to evolve.

Jason Reed, Ph.D., and Youngman Oh, Ph.D., were named senior members of the National Academy of Inventors on Feb. 20.

Two VCU researchers named National Academy of Inventors senior members

Feb. 24, 2025

Youngman Oh and Jason Reed are honored for their innovative work in cancer therapy and DNA technology.

Shijun Zhang, Ph.D., a professor in the School of Pharmacy, is pioneering drug discovery research focused on an essential component of the immune system. (Christopher Kendall)

Alzheimer’s, antennas and AI are highlighted in VCU faculty research receiving new Commercialization Fund awards

Feb. 19, 2025

Five projects are selected in the latest round of funding that helps bring campus innovation to the marketplace.

School salad bars encourage kids to make healthier choices, according to new VCU research. (Getty Images)

School salad bars raise fruit intake among kids and benefit economically diverse schools, VCU researchers find

Feb. 13, 2025

Their latest study, centered on a Virginia school district, adds to evidence that salad bars are encouraging healthier dietary choices in the school cafeteria.

Daniel Morales, an assistant professor of history, examines the creation of transnational migratory networks across Mexico and the United States in the 20th century in his new book. (Photos contributed by Daniel Morales)

VCU author investigates U.S.-Mexico migration in the early 20th century – and its enduring legacy

Jan. 23, 2025

In his new book, history professor Daniel Morales examines how large-scale movement became rooted in both countries’ socioeconomic fabric.

Ka Un Lao, Ph.D., is the first recipient at VCU to receive CAREER award recognition from the NSF’s Chemical Theory, Models and Computational Methods Program. (Contributed image)

Chemist Ka Un Lao receives prestigious National Science Foundation honor for early career faculty

Jan. 22, 2025

The CAREER award recognizes his innovative research that could boost clean energy and other fields.

Fantasy Lozada has received the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers, the highest honor given by the federal government to those early in their careers. (Kevin Morley, Enterprise Marketing and Communications)

VCU researcher Fantasy Lozada receives early career honor from U.S. government

Jan. 17, 2025

The psychology professor, who is exploring emotional development among African American youth, has been honored with the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers.