Spit for Science the VCU Student Survey is an effort led by researchers at VCU to create a university-wide research opportunity for VCU students. 

The scientific focus of the project is to understand why some people are more likely than others to develop problems associated with the use of alcohol and other substances, and difficulties with emotional health.  The project aims to understand how genes come together with the environment to contribute to these outcomes. 

We know that 1 in 4 people over the age of 18 are affected by substance use or mental health problems. This project is an opportunity for students at VCU to work together with some of the leading researchers in the world to try and understand and prevent these important and widespread problems. We then use the findings from the project to feed back into programming at VCU to benefit our VCU students and community.

In addition, participation in Spit for Science doesn’t end at the time of graduation! Our participants are invited to take part in research opportunities into adulthood too. These post-VCU studies aim to help scientists better understand how behaviors and habits in the formative years of college can influence health and behavior outcomes in later years. So S4S participants are valued across their lifespan!

• NEW! Spit for Science Follow-Up Survey for VCU Freshmen & Seniors:  Are you a freshman or senior at VCU who took part in the Spit for Science Survey previously?  If so, check your inbox for a follow-up survey invitation.  If you complete the survey, you’ll receive a $20 e-gift card as compensation for your time. 
• Call for Student Researchers. Spit for Science is seeking student researchers to take part in a training program offering research-focused experiential learning in alcohol and other drug research. The program has two parts: During Fall 2025, fellows will take an undergraduate research course. Upon successful completion, fellows can then apply for a research internship during Spring 2026. These spring internships come with a stipend as well as financial support for travel to scientific conferences. Please see the flyer linked here for more information. Anyone interested can apply here by April 1st! Contact Dr. Rebecca Smith at smithr22@vcu.edu with any questions.