The VMI Center for Undergraduate Research (VCUR) promotes undergraduate research occurring in all departments across post. We believe that some of the most enduring, meaningful academic experiences of college students come through opportunities to be mentored one-on-one by faculty outside the classroom, while also believing in the merit of research and other inquiry-based experiences within a more traditional classroom setting. Students who participate in research at VMI develop strong critical thinking skills, creativity, problem-solving, and intellectual independence helping prepare them for life after graduation.

The VCUR Research Report will provide bi-weekly highlights on research being done on post. Throughout the 2024-25 academic year, each department will highlight two projects, describing the cadet(s) working on the project and the scope of their research.

We hope you’ll join us in celebrating the amazing work being done this year!

White-Nose Syndrome: Bat Biology

Whitney Tracy ’25 and Alyssa Cacace ’26 worked together to study the bat fungal disease White-nose Syndrome, which is believed to have been introduced to North America in 2006/2007 and quickly became a severe threat to our bat populations.

Col. Paul R. Moosman, Jr. '98, Ph.D.
Professor, VMI Biology

Heavy Load Carriage

Cadets Lassalle and McGovern are working on a project seeking to determine the effects of heavy load carriage on oxygen consumption and energy expenditure in males and females. 

Lt. Col. Daniel A. Baur
Assistant Professor, VMI Human Performance & Wellness