For over two decades, our award-winning scientists have been solving life’s mysteries
and tackling society's biggest challenges.
When we started in 2000, we were already rooted in mathematical and computational science. Just like the microscope transformed medicine, we knew that data-driven discovery would shape the future of human well-being. With growing computing power, we set out to address the world’s complex problems, working alongside partners to create a healthier and safer future. In 2018, after years of groundbreaking research and partnerships, we joined the University of Virginia, embracing its mission to make a positive impact on the world.
Pioneers in Biocomplexity
In the late 1990s, the Commonwealth of Virginia saw the future in biotechnology. Believing it would drive economic growth in the 21st century, Governor Jim Gilmore launched a bold initiative to create a research institute capable of tackling the complex, large-scale challenges emerging at the time.
This vision led to the creation of the Virginia Bioinformatics Institute at Virginia Tech. With state funding, we opened in 2000 with just five staff members and big dreams. From day one, we set out to use our diverse expertise to address real-world issues like disease, hunger, and environmental challenges — the tough problems that demand complex solutions.
In 2004, we launched high-performance computing to tackle complex problems, and by 2010, we had secured over $120 million in federal funding, helping guide policymakers toward smarter decisions. By 2015, we evolved into a team of 250, including award-winning researchers, all committed to solving life’s complexities through collaboration.
Along the way, we built tools that led to groundbreaking discoveries, from modeling the human immune response to predicting the spread of diseases. We also developed systems like the Comprehensive National Incident Management System, which aids disaster response decision-making. These innovations not only solved real-world problems but advanced science--our groundbreaking Sequential and Graphical Dynamical Systems theories will keep guiding researchers worldwide as they use supercomputing to model complex systems.
New Beginnings and Challenges
In 2018, we found our new home at UVA in Charlottesville, where we joined forces with this forward-thinking university to continue our mission. With award-winning researchers and powerful computing, UVA fuels our drive to shape the future.
In our early days, simulating the spread of disease in a city took two days. By 2019, we were able to simulate an entire U.S. flu season for the CDC in just 10 seconds. It’s projects like these that keep us passionate about our work. Thanks to a nearly $1 million USDA grant, we’ve also launched a program to help rural communities use data science for the public good.
Taking on the Challenge of COVID-19
In early 2020, our work shifted dramatically. After years of helping governments navigate outbreaks like H5N1, H1N1, MERS, Ebola, and Zika, we faced the challenge of the COVID-19 pandemic. Our researchers quickly came together to create complex models, dashboards, and tools to support the global research community and inform the public.
At UVA, we’re also shaping the next generation of data scientists. By working on transdisciplinary teams and exploring the ethics behind their work, our students gain real-world experience in biocomplexity. They leave prepared to tackle the complex challenges of tomorrow.
Restructure and Refocus
In 2024, the Institute restructured, collapsing our division-based work into a single Institute, sharpening our focus on science and the future. We’ve always been explorers, diving into the unknown to uncover meaning in the vast world of complex data. We’re still evolving, asking new questions, and building new tools for discovery.