Inaugural cohort of VHC doctoral fellows shares translational research

The Virtua Health College Translational Biomedical Doctoral Support Initiative held a kickoff celebration on December 2, 2025, in the lobby of the brand-new Virtua Health College Research Center on West Campus. The event marked a significant milestone for Virtua Health College of Medicine & Life Sciences of Rowan University (VHC) celebrating the inaugural cohort of fellows and highlighting a commitment to advancing translational biomedical research. 

“This is about you, the students,” said VHC Vice Chancellor Richard Jermyn during the event. “You’re the reason we do this work and we’re so proud to be able to celebrate your research. It’s your hard work that got us here.” 

The kickoff event honored the first cohort of 12 fellows, each pursuing research designed to translate scientific discovery into meaningful improvements in patient care. Fellows presented overviews of their research projects, offering attendees insight into the scope, innovation and potential impact of their work. 

“The projects our fellows will present epitomize the translational research that is the focus of Rowan-Virtua School of Translational Biomedical Engineering & Sciences,” said TBES Dean and VHC Associate Vice Chancellor Dianne Langford. “Together with their faculty mentors and clinical partners, they have engaged in innovative learning and discovery that places them at the forefront of discovery in the field of translational biomedical science.” 

The fellows’ presentations were followed by a networking session that brought together students, faculty mentors, clinicians and university leaders to foster collaboration and discussion. 

The fellows represent a diverse range of doctoral programs across Rowan University, including the PhD in Cell and Molecular Biology, PhD in Biomedical Engineering and PhD in Complex Biological Systems. While their academic pathways differ, all the projects share a common focus on translational research—bridging the gap between laboratory findings and clinical applications to improve health outcomes. 

Through the fellowship, students receive funding, mentorship and comprehensive university support to advance their research. In addition to laboratory-based studies, fellows will participate in peer learning groups and career development activities. These experiences include targeted workshops, seminars and professional development opportunities designed to prepare students for careers in academia, industry and clinical research settings. 

The program reflects Rowan University’s expanding investment in translational research, made possible through generous support from Virtua Health. By awarding competitive fellowships to doctoral students, VHC is helping to cultivate emerging scientists who are equipped to transform innovative research into real-world clinical solutions. 

“We are all-in on translational research at Rowan-Virtua TBES,” said Associate Dean of Research and Innovation Vince Beachley. “All institutions are eager to have their research be impactful, which can be a challenge to achieve. But there is no better way to move toward that goal than investing in our students as we are with this fellowship.” 

A unique aspect of the fellows’ research is that it unites multidisciplinary teams of Rowan University researchers and Virtua Health clinicians. This collaborative approach accelerates the journey from concept to care, ensuring that scientific advancements are informed by clinical needs and grounded in evidence-based practice. As the inaugural cohort begins their work, the fellowship establishes a strong foundation for future discovery, collaboration, and measurable impact on patient lives.