The four interdisciplinary research centers being developed at EVMS are part of a major, multi-year Strategic Research Initiative for Research Development, guided by Dean Gerald Pepe. These centers will bring together scientists and physicians with varied expertise.  The goal of this network is to increase funding and research opportunities for EVMS faculty and students; recruit talented, externally funded researchers; and hasten the translation of laboratory findings into clinical trials and treatments.  The strategic initiatives will provide focus to research addressing regional and national health needs and will involve partnerships between EVMS, Sentara Healthcare and EVMS Health Services.

Diabetes, obesity and metabolic diseases

• Clinical development and implementation of new modalities
• Diabetes and Inflammation
• Microvascular biology and neuropathy
• Novel mechanisms and targets for islet cell regeneration
• Health disparities

Cancer biology and infectious diseases

• Translating bench expertise in proteins and miRNAs to cancer diagnostics/prognostics
• Role of viruses in oncogenesis
• Impact of infectious diseases on cancer development

Women's health and infant development

• Control of high-risk pregnancy, low birth weight and infant mortality
• Oocyte development, intrauterine environment and contraception
• Fetal and infant development
• Health disparities

Heart and vascular diseases

• Sentara Cardiovascular Research Institute and Infusion Center
• Sickle Cell Disease Management Program
• Relationships between glucose, insulin and diabetic vascular disease
• Mechanisms of cardiovascular disease due to diabetes