Research Topics

Follow your interests to learn about VIMS research and its impacts

Here's a one-stop shop to learn about the impacts of VIMS research. Choose a topic to access related Top Stories, Advisory Service reports, journal articles, theses and dissertations, and a listing of affiliated labs, projects, and centers.

	Marine Life & Processes VIMS research illuminates the biology of marine organisms and the biogeochemical and food-web processes that connect them.
	Coastal Research Wise management of coastal resources requires a clear understanding of wetlands, dunes, and shoreline erosion.
	Blue Crabs VIMS provides the science to help sustainably manage this Chesapeake Bay icon.
	Aquatic Diseases & Immunity Traditional and modern techniques help identify disease organisms and the genetic basis of immunity.
	Oysters VIMS leads efforts to restore the native oyster and develop oyster aquaculture.
	Sharks Research programs at VIMS continue to inform stock assessments and fishery management plans at federal and state levels.
	Dead Zones VIMS research shows that the number of "dead zones"—areas of seafloor with too little oxygen for most marine life—increased by a third between 1995 and 2007.
	Global Change Climate change, sea-level rise, and nutrient pollution threaten coastal and estuarine ecosystems.
	Pollution Toxicologists at VIMS detect, identify, and assess the risks of marine pollutants.
	By Region Map VIMS research activities in the Chesapeake Bay and around the globe.
	SAV Submerged aquatic vegetation provides refuge and food for many Bay organisms but is under threat from cloudy waters and rising temperatures.
	Fisheries VIMS researchers pursue efforts to monitor, restore, and manage wild fisheries.
	Coastal Economies & Recreation Sustainable management of marine resources helps build strong and vibrant coastal communities.
	Observing & Modelling Computer models plus real-time data help predict storm surge, sediment transport, and food-web dynamics.
	Sturgeon VIMS research plays a key role in efforts to restore Atlantic sturgeon to the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries.
	Aquaculture VIMS researchers pursue efforts to guide aquaculture development.