Ruffin NeuroLab, LLC advances STEM education and professional development through innovative training and research. In collaboration with over 25 experts from academia, industry, and government, we offer both in-person and virtual learning opportunities.
Located in downtown Richmond, Virginia, at the VA BIO & TECH Park (800 East Leigh St.), our lab provides hands-on training in neuroscience and biomedical research. Virtual sessions are conducted via Zoom and Google, ensuring accessibility for participants worldwide.
Our facility features state-of-the-art lab equipment, including an autoclave room, freezer room, cold room, and DI water access, along with break rooms, collaborative workspaces, and conference rooms for up to 75 attendees. Discount rates are available for eligible participants.
Through a blend of virtual and in-person training, we equip students and professionals with the skills to excel in STEM fields.
Research Training
Research Techniques and Equipment
At Ruffin NeuroLab, we utilize advanced research techniques and equipment to investigate critical scientific questions. Our training focuses on four key areas:
Developing a strong foundation in research ethics.
Mastering the proper use and maintenance of laboratory equipment.
Gaining hands-on experience in data acquisition using multiple cutting-edge techniques.
Enhancing skills in data analysis to interpret and present research findings effectively.
Through this comprehensive approach, we prepare students and professionals to conduct high-quality research with precision, integrity, and confidence.
Shared Equipment:
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HERAcell 240 CO2Incubator
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Biological Safety Cabinet – Level 2
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Analytical Balance
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Beckman Coulter AVANTI ® J-26 XPI Centrifuge
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Genesys 6 UV-Vis Spectrometer
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Genesys 5 Spectrometer
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Fisher Scientific Sonicator
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Branson Sonicator
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Fisher Scientific Isotemp Water Bath
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Pierce Reacti-Therm Heating Module
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Fisher Scientific Stirring Hot Plate
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Robinair CoolTech Vacuum Pump
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Fisher Scientific MAXIMA C Vacuum Pump
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Fisher Isotemp Dry Bath
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Barnstead Electrothermal Flask Heater
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Glass-Col Electrothermal Flask Heater
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Olympus IX71 Inverted Microscrope
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Thermo Scientific Evolution 3000 UV Spectrophotometer
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Thermo Scientific Heratherm Incubator
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Fisher Scientific Electrotherm glass heater
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Edwards nXDS Scroll Pump
Advancing STEM education and research is at the heart of the Research in Progress. Reading and understanding scientific journal articles and reviews is essential for STEM professionals, and we foster academic development by focusing on journal comprehension, written communication skills, and oral presentation skills. Our platform facilitates discussions on the latest advances in STEM education, research, and careers using scientific journal articles. To attend and explore cutting-edge research, register and make a payment. Your support contributes directly to science education and research initiatives. Consider donating to support our mission - in return, you'll gain access to exclusive content, including fascinating topics and ongoing studies. If you're interested in presenting a scientific journal article, follow the link to submit your proposal. #RNLRIP
Present at Scientific Conferences
Ruffin NeuroLab, LLC offers hands-on training in neuroscience and biomedical science, in collaboration with over 25 experts from academia, industry, and government. We provide both in-person and virtual learning experiences, ensuring accessibility and flexibility.
Located at the VA BIO & TECH Park in downtown Richmond, Virginia (800 East Leigh St.), our state-of-the-art facility includes advanced lab equipment and collaborative workspaces. Discount rates are available for eligible participants.
Students and trainees will have the opportunity to present their research in person and virtually at events like the RNL STEM Luncheon, 3, 2, 1... NeuroSymposium, and national conferences such as the American Physiological Summit and the Society for Neuroscience. This provides an excellent platform to practice written and oral presentation skills, gain professional exposure, and network with leading STEM professionals. #321NeuroSymposium
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Ruffin NeuroLab Research
The brain is filled with specialized cells called neurons and neuroglia. Together these cells regulate all of the brains functions including the five senses (vision, hearing, taste, touch, and smell), movement, language, emotion, and learning/memory. In addition, neurons and neuroglia are involved not only in the regulation of the cardiovascular, respiratory, and renal systems. but in the coordination all of the major organ systems of the body, In fact, all of the work of these brain cells results in the brain having both a high oxygen consumption and a high metabolic rate.
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The research in the Ruffin NeuroLab focuses on understanding how neurons and neuroglia regulate a stable intracellular acid concentration (pHi) which is necessary for optimal function even though they produce acid as a result increased activity and a high metabolic demand. During exercise or some pathological conditions (ie. hypoxia) there is even more acid produced and an imbalance in pHi. Understanding how cells regulate pHi is essential to understanding cell function and important in both normal physiology and pathophysiologic diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, Multiple Sclerosis, Epilepsy, and Stroke.
Scientific Publications
