News

Michelle Peace, Ph.D., a professor of forensic science at VCU, works with a colleague in a forensic toxicology lab. (Nathan Hanger, Enterprise Marketing and Communications)

The hidden dangers of vapes: VCU study reveals chemicals, risks and teen use

Oct. 30, 2025

Researcher Michelle Peace and her team examine nicotine, cannabinoids, ethanol and other ingredients in nearly 1,300 products from K-12 schools in Virginia.

Mikaela Romanelli (M.S. ’14) protects her community using forensic chemistry

Oct. 9, 2025

The Department of Forensic Science alumna continues to use her training from her graduate program as a senior forensic chemist with the Drug Enforcement Administration

Michelle Peace, Ph.D., wants consumers to be informed about what they are putting into their lungs when they use vaping and cannabis products. (Nathan Hanger, Enterprise Marketing and Communications)

Her mission: Clearing the air about the hidden danger in vapes

July 14, 2025

Mold? Nail polish remover? VCU forensic toxicologist Michelle Peace is unearthing what’s truly inside the unregulated products that are billed as alternatives to smoking.

Sophie Laman is an Honors College student who graduated this month with a forensic science degree (biology concentration) and minors in chemistry, biology and pre-medicine. (Contributed photo)

Class of 2025: Sophie Laman aimed straight for VCU’s forensic science program

May 13, 2025

The Tennessee native will continue exploring crime investigation and medical research this summer.

Virginia Commonwealth University is introducing a digital forensics and incident response concentration in its Master of Science in forensic science program this fall. (Getty Images)

New concentration in digital forensics will propel graduate students into a growing field

Feb. 26, 2025

Debuting in fall 2025, the specialized curriculum in the forensic science master’s program reflects how electronic evidence is an expanding frontier in fighting crime.

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.

Erin Washington and Myia Graves were just looking for a roommate when they met. What they ended up finding was a best friend. (Kevin Morley, Enterprise Marketing and Communications)

Unbreakable bonds: How Myia Graves and Erin Washington went from roommates to besties

Feb. 11, 2025

What started as a DM on Instagram turned into a friendship full of musicals, late-night videogames and endless fun.

A year-end review of students and alums who earned prestigious scholarships through the National Scholarship Office

Nov. 11, 2024

Recipients represent a variety of fields and backgrounds, and their scholarships will provide invaluable opportunities to deepen their studies, gain new perspectives and grow in their fields.

VCU student Ria Mohan said her association with HOSA-Future Health Professionals “has empowered me and provided me with confidence.” (Thomas Kojcsich, Enterprise Marketing and Communications)

Sophomore premed student Ria Mohan takes leadership role in global health professions group

Sept. 4, 2024

The forensic science major has a long association with HOSA and established VCU’s chapter.

“What we wanted to do was open the eyes of high school students to careers in science, and to issues within their own community that they might not have been aware of,” VCU professor Tal Simmons said of the East Marshall Street Well Project curriculum. (Kevin Morley, Enterprise Marketing and Communications)

New curriculum brings East Marshall Street Well Project to high school classrooms

June 27, 2024

Focusing on the ethical treatment of human remains, the program was developed by VCU professors and students to highlight history, science and community engagement.