Student Research News

Jaelyn Jenifer said that when she transferred to VCU, “I wanted to put myself in a position to be challenged.” (Kevin Morley, Enterprise Marketing and Communications)

How I found my research: Jaelyn Jenifer hopes to be a ‘guardian of public health’

March 7, 2024

Undergraduate student researcher and aspiring forensic toxicologist studies medications used in the treatment of HIV infections.

Tijana Simovic, a Ph.D. student at VCU, co-authored a recent study that shows young and regular users of e-cigarettes exhibit a reduced blood vessel function. (Photo courtesy of Paula Rodriguez Miguelez, Ph.D.)

Regular e-cigarette use could lead to premature vascular dysfunction, VCU study finds

March 5, 2024

As the devices grow in popularity, researchers warn that young adult users are showing reduced blood vessel function

Stephen Gibson, a Ph.D. candidate in the developmental psychology program at VCU, researches the long-term effects of online racism on the mental health of Black teens. (Contributed photo)

In mind, body and digital souls, VCU doctoral student examines racism through the lenses of adolescence and parenting

Feb. 15, 2024

Developmental psychology researcher Stephen Gibson explores the intersection of teen mental health, online experiences and parent-child communication.

Kay Coghill’s Ph.D. dissertation explores digital violence and misogynoir, the unique discrimination that Black women experience. (Contributed photo)

Through research and activism, VCU doctoral student explores gender, race, violence and culture – and wins American Society of Criminology award

Feb. 1, 2024

In their studies, in front of a classroom and in digital work, Kay Coghill sheds light on misogynoir and helps survivors of sexual violence.

Cameron Toler, a senior biology major, encourages students interested in research to “be adventurous and have the courage to ask big questions.” (Kevin Morley, Enterprise Marketing and Communications)

How I found my research: Cameron Toler’s interest in the pathobiology of human disease is fueled by his own experience

Dec. 12, 2023

Toler, a senior biology major, has found his research footing working in the lab of Huiping Zhou, Ph.D., and studying a chronic liver disease that affects 1 in 4 adults.

In the Laboratory for Forensic Toxicology Research, Alaina Holt demonstrates an analysis of e-liquids containing unlisted ingredients. (Photo by Kevin Morley, Enterprise Marketing and Communications)

Class of 2023: Alaina Holt’s research into vaping and THC-related products is helping keep the public safe

Dec. 4, 2023

Holt’s research mentor, Michelle Peace, said the doctoral student's tenacity, passion and positive energy have helped “make the magic happen” in the Laboratory for Forensic Toxicology Research.

Jennifer Weggen, a doctoral student at VCU, served for 12 years in the Navy. (Contributed photo)

Navy veteran and VCU doctoral student Jennifer Weggen is serving her military colleagues on many fronts

Nov. 8, 2023

Her research focus on PTSD, traumatic brain injury and heart health, and her work with student and alumni military groups, reflect a longstanding passion with family roots.

Biomedical engineering student Karah Moore has been a member of the lab of Rebecca Heise, Ph.D., for the past three years, researching cellular activity in diseased lungs. (Kevin Morley, Enterprise Marketing and Communications)

VCU awarded $3 million from the NIH to continue research training of students underrepresented in the sciences

Sept. 21, 2023

Two renewed grants, which support undergraduate and graduate students in pursuing biomedical and behavioral research, highlight VCU’s national standing.

Madison Cruz, a biology major, is working at VCU Health as a patient care technician, helping patients and getting hands-on experience. (Tom Kojcsich, Enterprise Marketing and Communications)

With talent ranging from the lab to the stage, VCU senior sees a future in medicine and mental health advocacy

Sept. 5, 2023

Madison Cruz has mixed research, patient care, volunteer work and even the Miss Virginia pageant in her undergraduate experience.

Ellie Bavuso is working to “gamify” a treatment that can help autistic individuals learn effective social behaviors. (Kevin Morley, Enterprise Marketing and Communications)

Through undergraduate research program, student works to shift paradigm for disability inclusion in virtual reality research

Aug. 15, 2023

Ellie Bavuso, a biology major, is designing and developing a virtual reality game that's custom-made to support individuals with autism.