Dr. Tombe's career at VCU spans a wide range of contributions. He first joined the university in 1993 as a member of the VCU Massey Cancer Center, and in 2000, he brought his expertise to the Department of Biology as an Assistant Professor. He rose steadily through the ranks, ultimately earning the title of Professor in 2010. Along the way, he taught courses that reached students at every stage of their academic journey, from undergraduates to graduate students and professional learners alike. 

His impact extended far beyond the classroom. Dr. Tombes mentored dozens of undergraduates, graduate students, and postdoctoral scholars, helping shape the next generation of scientists. His scholarly achievements, including 55 peer-reviewed publications, sustained external funding from NSF and the Jeffress Memorial Trust, and international research collaborations, have earned him national recognition in cellular and molecular biology and helped build connections across campuses and disciplines. 

Beyond his academic achievements, Dr. Tombes played a defining role in building and strengthening the institutional structures that continue to shape VCU today. Early in his career, he helped launch the Undergraduate Biomedical Research Program in 1996, opening a new pathway for undergraduates to engage in research across both campuses. In 2005, he became the inaugural director of the Integrative Life Sciences (ILS) Ph.D. Program, which has served as a model for other interdisciplinary graduate programs at VCU. 

Dr. Tombe's influence extended even further through major administrative leadership. As Associate Dean for Research in the College of Humanities and Sciences (2012-2016), he guided the college through a period of significant growth, overseeing a more than 60% increase in grant expenditures and reorganizing research support services in ways that continue to benefit faculty today. Dr. Tombes also served as Associate Dean for Graduate Studies and Executive Associate Dean (2015-2016) before being appointed Vice Provost for Life Sciences and Research (2016-2023). As Vice Provost, Dr. Tombes helped transform VCU Life Sciences into a more academically centered unit, supported faculty hiring, strengthened research capacity, and laid critical groundwork for what would become the School of Life Sciences and Sustainability. 

Dr. Tombes also played a pivotal role in advancing the Rice Rivers Center, including helping secure the $8 million in donations needed to build its 14,000-square-foot research facility in 2021. The facility now stands as a national center for environmental research and training, and it remains one of the most visible examples of his dedication to creating lasting infrastructure for VCU's scientific community. 

For the past two years, Dr. Tombes returned to the classroom to reconnect with students and his passion for teaching. During this time, he taught Cell Biology, a capstone seminar on bioethics, and an upper-level elective on stem cells in human disease and regenerative medicine. Students regularly praised his ability make complex ideas accessible and meaningful, with one noting that his passion for biology was "contagious" and that his mentorship helped shape both their confidence and their understanding of the field. 

Your passion for biology is contagious. You make complex concepts feel accessible and fascinating, and your class has been a true source of inspiration. Thank you for leading with empathy, supporting my growth, and showing me what it means to learn-and teach-with enthusiasm."

- Ritya Achuri, Biology major

Although Dr. Tombes officially retired this semester, his departure is far from a farewell. Through his Distinguished Career Professorship and emeritus appointment, he will continue to support research efforts, mentor colleagues, and remain a valued member of the SLSS community.

Catherine Ingrassia, Ph.D., Dean of the College of Humanities and Sciences, reflected on Dr.Tombes's legacy, noting: "Rob Tombes has been instrumental in building the foundation upon which the School of Life Sciences and Sustainability now stands. Over three decades, he has not only advanced groundbreaking research and mentored countless students, but he has also shaped the institutional structures and vision that continue to drive our success. His leadership, creativity, and unwavering commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration have left an indelible mark on VCU. Beyond Rob's legacy as a scientist and administrator, I'll also remember his wide-ranging skills and interests as evidenced by his editing and publication of his great-great-grandfather's letters, Tell the Children I'll Be Home When the Peaches Get Ripe. We are deeply grateful for his remarkable service.'

As SLSS looks ahead to its next chapter, we are grateful for Dr. Tombes's decades of leadership, service, and mentorship. His work has shaped generations of students, strengthened VCU's academic and research enterprise, and helped lay the foundation for the School of Life Sciences and Sustainability. We wish him the very best in retirement and are delighted that he will remain part of our community.