The Shellfish Aquaculture Program at the Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS) consists of dynamic team of faculty, staff and students who have identified shellfish aquaculture as a priority, engaging through research, education and advisory services. The program also includes several facilities (e.g. the Acuff Center for Aquaculture, the Eastern Shore Lab, a research farm at the Gloucester Point campus), other resources (e.g., vessels, equipment) and centers of excellence (the Aquaculture Genetics and Breeding Technology Center, the VIMS Shellfish Pathology Lab, the Marine Advisory Program, etc.). The VIMS Shellfish Aquaculture Program is committed to conducting state-of-the-art research and offering world-class education in shellfish aquaculture science. The overarching mission of VIMS’ Shellfish Aquaculture Program is to advance and support a thriving sustainable shellfish aquaculture community in Virginia and the United States, through globally relevant shellfish aquaculture science, outreach, and education. Current shellfish aquaculture research projects will be briefly reviewed and include environmental interactions, genetic improvement, environmental challenges, improving aquaculture production, shellfish health & biosecurity, and socioeconomics.