A native of Yonkers, New York, Bruce R. Poulton earned his bachelor of science degree (with honors) in animal science in 1950, his masters in nutrition in 1952, and his doctorate in endocrinology in 1956, all from Rutgers University. After serving on the faculty at Rutgers and the University of Maine, he became vice president of the latter institution (1971-1975) before succeeding to the chancellorship of the University of New Hampshire system (1975-1982). In 1982, Poulton was selected to become the tenth Chancellor of North Carolina State University.

During his tenure as Chancellor, Poulton oversaw substantial increases in the university's enrollment, research expenditures, and extension activity. He undertook a review of undergraduate programs resulting in the redesign and expansion of general education, and access by adults and minorities was made easier. Poulton also helped lead the effort to create NCSU's 900-acre Centennial Campus, the stated purpose of which was to articulate and expand partnerships between education, industry, and government. Finally, he developed a master plan which continues to guide the university. A scandal centering on the basketball program forced him from office in 1989. Since stepping down, Poulton has served as the director of NCSU's Literacy Systems Center.

Poulton and his wife Elizabeth have three sons and a daughter.