School of Science

Biological Sciences

Advancing Knowledge at the Frontiers of Living Systems

With a focus on rigorous scientific exploration, students delve into the foundations of biological systems through hands-on research, analytical skill building, and immersive learning experiences. Academic pathways span undergraduate and graduate study, offering opportunities to develop strong investigative techniques and effective communication within the biological sciences. The program prepares emerging scientists with the knowledge and skills needed for research, professional advancement, and health‑related careers.

Degree Programs

Select a degree program to take a look at the curriculum, course requirements, and application process.

News Spotlight

Hampton University is turning heads in the global agriculture scene, thanks to a high-impact discovery by Dr. Naoufal Lakhssassi, plant geneticist and professor in the Department of Biological Sciences. In...
A photo of a professor and students examining dissected plants on a table.

Fueling Breakthroughs at the Frontiers of Life Science Research

Emphasizing a strong culture of faculty‑student collaboration, Hampton empowers emerging scientists to engage in meaningful inquiry and discovery. Research opportunities in Pre-Medical Sciences, Cellular and Molecular Biology, and Integrative Organismal biology are supported by state‑of‑the‑art laboratories and unique field resources that position students to contribute directly to advancing scientific knowledge.

Our Team Members

Photo of Mekel Richardson

Dr. Mekel Richardson

Chairperson and Assistant Professor
Photo of Eric Lewallen

Dr. Eric Lewallen

Assistant Professor
Areas of Expertise: Genetics, Population Biology, Bioinformatics, Biomaterials
Photo of Herman Fennell II

Dr. Herman Fennell, II

Assistant Professor
Areas of Expertise: Molecular Biology
Photo of Indu Sharma

Dr. Indu Sharma

Associate Professor
Areas of Expertise: Microbiology, Microbial Physiology, Microbial genomics, RNA biology, 16S sequencing, Barcoding
Photo of Isi Ero-Johnson

Dr. Isi Ero-Johnson

Professor
Areas of Expertise: Molecular Biology, Matrix Biology, Tissue Biogenesis, Basement Membranes, and Science Education
Photo of Jemel Watkins

Dr. Jermel Watkins

Associate Professor
Areas of Expertise: Medical Physiology
Photo of Linda L. Hensel

Dr. Linda L. Hensel

Assistant Professor
Areas of Expertise: Biofilm Inhibition and Eradication
Photo of Michael D. Druitt

Mr. Michael D. Druitt

Assistant Professor
Areas of Expertise: Botany, Systematics, Evolutionary Biology, Environmental Science, STEM Education, Health Disparities in African-Americans, Grip Strength Comparison Studies
Photo of Naoufal Lakhssassi

Dr. Naoufal Lakhssassi

Assistant Professor
Areas of Expertise: Molecular Biology, Plant physiology, genetics, Functional genomics, and mutational breeding.
Photo of Natasha R. Mavengere

Dr. Natasha R. Mavengere

Assistant Professor
Areas of Expertise: Botany, Systematics, Evolutionary Biology, Environmental Science, STEM Education
Photo of Qingyu Chen

Dr. Qingyu Chen

Lab Coordinator
Areas of Expertise: Cell Biology, Molecular Biology

Dr. Rajeev Chandra

Associate Professor
Areas of Expertise: Cell Biology, Molecular Biology
Photo of Shawn T. Dash

Dr. Shawn T. Dash

Associate Professor
Areas of Expertise: Entomology, Biodiversity, Conservation Biology, Taxonomy, Evolution, Science Education, Ecology, Zoology
Photo of Yvonne Affram

Dr. Yvonne Affram

Assistant Professor
Areas of Expertise: Virology, Immunology
Your support fuels innovation in the School of Science. Contributions help create state‑of‑the‑art learning environments by funding new laboratories and providing advanced equipment that empowers students and faculty to push the boundaries of research and technology.