As part of the Department of Neurological Surgery’s mission to improve the lives of patients through research and development, the Walter L. Copeland Laboratory suite serves as the core facility for neurosurgical basic science research. Directed by C. Edward Dixon, PhD, the laboratory houses several research disciplines including neuro-oncology, radiation biology and therapy, neurophysiology, neurotrauma, and resident research training. In addition, the laboratory suite provides core services in the areas of biochemistry, histology and immunohistochemistry as well as in vitro experiments, and in vivo, small animal surgical experiments, including both mice and rats.

In addition to providing Department research core facilities, the Copeland Laboratories houses the Spine Biomechanics Research Laboratory, a state-of-the-art facility for performing in vitro biomechanical testing of spinal systems and spinal pathology. The lab, under the direction of Adam S. Kanter, MD, tests and designs new spinal implants and explores basic science applications of cellular regeneration for spinal use. The Neural Enhancement Laboratory, directed by Elizabeth Tyler-Kabara, MD, PhD, include stem cell therapies in the treatment of both adult and pediatric traumatic brain injury. Current collaborations with the Department of Bioengineering include exploring various techniques for improving neuronal electrode interfaces.