HRA Research Methods Class

These Navigators have learned to use molecular cell biology techniques such as PCR and Gel electrophoresis to detect the presence of the bacterium Wolbachia in arthropods. They also learned to record brain waves from the occipital cortex of the brain, studied the sympathetic response to cold water and its effects on heart rate, created their own cyborg hand which they control using a servo motor and they learned the basics of neuroprosthetics by using their muscle signals to control someone else's muscle contraction.

HRA is currently collaborating with Hampton-Sydney University, learning how to culture bacteria cells and how to use molecular cell biology techniques to detect the presence of virulence factors. Students are constructing their own primers so stay tuned!