Virginia Tech's Fralin Life Science Institute is ranked 24th among the 50 best graduate research institutes by Grad School Hub, an online resource that offers information on high-quality graduate degree programs at U.S. universities.

The initial pool of research universities was drawn from an elite group of about 100 universities noted for the highest research activity by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. The following metrics were considered by Grad School Hub:

  • University research and development expenditures
  • Awards and recognition related to research
  • Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED) certified facilities
  • Interdisciplinary approach
  • Majority Graduate/Professional enrollment
  • Very high research activity
  • "Wow" factor

The Fralin Life Science Institute provides resources to Virginia Tech's life sciences community to support innovative research, education, and outreach. Established in 2008, the institute studies key issues in life sciences such as ecology and organismal biology, vector-borne disease, infectious disease, plant sciences, obesity, and cancer biology.

"We are extremely proud to be named among the 50 best graduate research institutes in the country," said Dennis Dean, Fralin Life Science Institute director, University Distinguished Professor, and the Stroobants Professor of Biotechnology. "The motto of our staff at the Fralin Institute is 'Living Science,' which embodies the scientific opportunities and the wonderful place to live and work that Virginia Tech provides."

As a testament to ongoing growth and progress, three new laboratories at the institute have recently been renovated. These labs house a new insectary to support the work of the Vector-borne Disease Research Group. In 2015, a new Global Change Center also was added to the institute. Its focus includes five emerging global threats: habitat loss, pollution, invasive species, disease, and climate change.

A university-level Research Institute of Virginia Tech, the Fralin Life Science Institute enables and enhances collaborative efforts in research, education, and outreach within the Virginia Tech life science community through strategic investments that are often allied with colleges, departments, and other institutes.

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