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

A student presents findings during a research poster presentation at Research Day at Haleon.

Oct. 31, 2024

Students excel in exceptional Research Day at Haleon

Eight students earned awards for excelling academically and for presenting their findings at this year's Research Day at Haleon.

richard glennon

Oct. 31, 2024

New listing of the world’s most-cited scientists includes Glennon, 10 other VCU faculty who rank in the top 50 of their fields

The 2024 Stanford Elsevier report highlights the top 2% globally, and VCU’s broad presence reflects its expanding research portfolio.

yan zhang

Oct. 5, 2024

Yan Zhang appointed as director of VCU's Center for Drug Discovery

This week, Yan Zhang, Ph.D., was named Director of VCU's Center for Drug Discovery, formerly known as the Institute for Structural Biology, Drug Discovery and Development.