Brent Opell, honored with emeritus status | Virginia Tech News

Brent Opell, professor of biological sciences in the Virginia Tech College of Science, has been awarded the title of professor emeritus by the Virginia Tech Board of Visitors.

The title emeritus can be conferred on retired faculty members who are specially recommended to the board by Virginia Tech President Tim Sands in recognition of exemplary service to the university. Nominees who are approved by the board receive a copy of the resolution and a certificate of appreciation.

A member of the Virginia Tech community since 1978, Opell’s scholarship has focused on organismal biology. He has been the principal or co-principal investigator for more than 15 grants totaling more than $1 million. He was principal investigator on three grants from the National Science Foundation and one from the National Geographic Society.

He has authored or co-authored over 100 peer-reviewed journal articles, as well as four book chapters. He has presented his scholarship at over 25 conferences and research meetings.

Opell has received several professional honors and awards, including the Virginia Tech Certificate of Excellence three times, the Department of Biological Sciences Outstanding Professor Award twice, and the William E. Wine Award for Faculty Achievement.

In the classroom, Opell taught both undergraduate and graduate courses. He chaired five master’s degrees and two doctorates. student committees.

Opell received his bachelor’s degree from Butler University, a master’s degree from Southern Illinois University, and a Ph.D. from Harvard University.

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