VCU’s Department of Neurology is engaged in basic and clinical research to better understand the underlying cause of complex neurological diseases and conditions that translates research discoveries into new treatments. As research, education and practice intersects, VCU and VCU Health are redefining the future of neurological patient care by developing potentially transformative disease modifying therapies. In parallel, researchers are working to redefine how we diagnosis and manage complicated neurological diseases.

Collectively, this work enables neurology researchers to apply the latest in research to treat epilepsy, sleep disorders, stroke, chronic pain and migraine, neuromuscular diseases such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS); neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease, and studies of cancers of the brain and nervous system (neuro-oncology).

The Vice-Chair for Research, Nicholas E. Johnson, MD works closely with Chair of the Department to oversee activities pertaining to the research goals of the Department. This includes developing and implementing research initiatives and mechanisms to ensure ongoing support for a growing research infrastructure.

The research interests of faculty within the Department of Neurology span the spectrum from basic laboratory research investigating diseases at a molecular and genetic level, to dedicated clinical outcomes research and finally to translation of knowledge from bench to bedside.

Our departmental research portfolio is diverse, including support from the National Institutes of Health, Department of Defense, patient foundations, and industry sponsors. 

Please continue to browse this section to learn more.

For a list of the clinical trials and research studies active and available, please visit the VCU Office of Research and Innovation. Like and follow the VCU Clinical Trials Facebook page for studies that are currently enrolling participants. 

About the Vice Chair for Research

VCUSOM Message from the Dean - About the Chief

About the Vice Chair for Research

Dr. Nicholas Johnson treats adults and children with both common and rare neuromuscular conditions — yet his work doesn’t end in the clinic. He dedicates significant time each week to laboratory research, and is part of a team at VCU Health working to advance the treatment of genetic muscle disorders, with a special emphasis on muscular dystrophies.  


Dr. Johnson is board-certified in neurology, neuromuscular medicine and neuromuscular pathology by the American Academy of Neurology, and serves on its government relations committee.


Dr. Johnson’s research interests include myotonic and muscular dystrophy, Limb-girdle muscular dystrophies, facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy, spinal muscular atrophy, and Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. His research projects range from studies in congenital myotonic dystrophy to investigation in Limb-Girdle muscular dystrophy. He is also currently engaged in research projects in categories such as myotonic dystrophies and facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy.