About the Department
Our Vision
In the Department of Physiology and Biophysics, we are proud to promote scholarship at the highest level, train the next generation of scientists and physicians and expand scientific knowledge for the betterment of human health. With curiosity, creativity and compassion, we strive to provide a collaborative and engaging environment for all faculty, students, trainees and staff.
Our History
Charles Edward Brown-Sequard, known as the "Father of Experimental Endocrinology," joins the faculty
Experimental lecture demonstrations by a specially appointed demonstrator in physiology were first introduced to the institution.
Student laboratory exercises in physiology were added, with the demonstrators also acting as examiners.
Charles C. Haskell, M.D., was appointed professor of pharmacology, associate professor of physiology and head of the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, which existed as a single department from 1915 to 1955.
Dr. William R. Bond, a graduate of MCV's pharmacy and medical schools, became head of the physiology section of the department.
Ernst Fischer, M.D., was appointed chair of the department.
The first M.S. degree was awarded in the department.
The physiology staff expanded to include one chair, three professors, one associate professor, one assistant professor, two part-time instructors and two part-time lecturers.
The first Ph.D. was awarded by the Department of Physiology to Alfred J. Szumski, who later joined the faculty.
The Department of Physiology moved into the newly constructed Sanger Hall. Shortly thereafter, the MCV medical curriculum changed from departmental to integrated.
Dr. Fischer announced his retirement and was succeeded by Leslie E. Edwards, Ph.D.
After MCV merged with Richmond Professional Institute to form Virginia Commonwealth University, the Division of Psychiatric Research was incorporated into the Department of Physiology, bringing much needed expertise in neurophysiology. Edwards announced his retirement and was succeeded by Ian E. Bush, M.D.
Dr. Bush resigned and Edwards resumed the role of acting chair.
F. Norman Briggs, Ph.D., was appointed chair of the department.
The department had grown to 27 faculty members and was renamed the Department of Physiology and Biophysics. Dr. Briggs supported the development of neurosciences and endocrinology within the department. He resigned from the chair in 1985 but remained active and maintained grant support until his retirement in 2000.
John A. DeSimone, Ph.D., was appointed chair.
Margaret C. Biber, D.Phil., was appointed chair.
Diomedes Logothetis, Ph.D., was appointed chair.
Clive M. Baumgarten, Ph.D., was appointed interim chair.
John R. Grider, Ph.D., was appointed interim chair.
Fadi N. Salloum, Ph.D., was appointed interim chair.