School of Pharmacy

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Research

Innovating tomorrow's therapies for today's health challenges

The VCU School of Pharmacy is ranked among the top institutions for research funding reflecting our commitment to advancing pharmaceutical sciences and improving patient care.

Leading groundbreaking research in drug discovery and development

With annual research funding exceeding $15 million, an average of 21 invention disclosures per year, cutting-edge facilities and technology, and a collaborative environment, our researchers are leading groundbreaking advancements in drug discovery, delivery and optimization. Their work explores new therapeutic targets and agents, develops innovative drug delivery systems and evaluates the factors influencing the efficacy and safety of therapeutic interventions.

A researcher talks to students in a research lab.

Focusing on patient outcomes

We aim to identify the true value of therapies, policies and practices by focusing on patient outcomes, ensuring our research translates into better health care solutions and an improved quality of life. We study how treatments affect patient health in real-world settings and gather data on outcomes such as symptom relief, disease progression and patient satisfaction. Our patient-centered research identifies the most beneficial therapies and the best policies for optimal health outcomes.

a pharmacist administers a vaccine to a patient via syringe

Enhancing care delivery through education and collaboration

We aim to bridge the gap between research and clinical practice. Our research enhances care delivery through innovative pharmacy education, interprofessional collaboration and patient education. Insights from our studies are tested then implemented in health care settings, improving patient care. We work with health care providers, policymakers and other stakeholders to translate our findings into actionable strategies.

Three students stand next to a hospital bed with a human cadaver.

Focus Areas

  • Drug Discovery

    Identifying and developing new therapeutic compounds to treat diseases and improve patient health

  • Drug Delivery

    Developing and refining methods and technologies to administer medications effectively

  • Drug Optimization

    Improving therapeutic agents to enhance their efficacy, safety and performance

  • Patient Outcomes

    Developing and implementing innovative approaches to improve medication outcomes

  • Care Delivery

    Advancing pharmacy practice to improve medication management and enhance health outcomes

Pharmacy Research News

VCU produces more graduates in health-related degrees than any other university in the state, making VCU an unparalleled leader in shaping Virginia’s health care future. (VCU School of Dentistry)

Nov. 21, 2025

Here is how VCU plays an unparalleled role in training Virginia’s health care workforce

The state’s top producer of health sciences graduates is treating the critical need for more providers.

Michael Hindle, Ph.D., (left) and Worth Longest, Ph.D., in the aerosol research lab on VCU’s MCV Campus. (Photo by Karl E. Steinbrenner)

Nov. 19, 2025

VCU Innovators of the Year advance lifesaving aerosol therapy for newborns

The collaborative work of Michael Hindle in the School of Pharmacy and P. Worth Longest in the College of Engineering has global implications.

Dickson Donu has published 27 research papers on a range of topics, including studies assessing the prevalence of malaria and the development of new medications to treat or prevent malaria. (Dean Hoffmeyer, Enterprise Marketing and Communications)

Nov. 19, 2025

How I found my research: Dickson Donu joins the battle against malaria

Donu, who will earn his Ph.D. from the School of Pharmacy next month, says the most fulfilling aspect of his work is the potential to make a real-world impact.