Gavin R Rumbaugh

Gavin R Rumbaugh is a Professor in the Department of Neuroscience at Scripps Research/UF Scripps, where he leads the Rumbaugh Laboratory. His research focuses on molecular and genetic mechanisms that shape synapse and circuit biology within the mammalian nervous system, with particular emphasis on understanding how neurodevelopmental disorder genes impact cognitive processing and behavioral adaptation. Dr. Rumbaugh's laboratory employs cutting-edge technologies to investigate how mutations in genes like SYNGAP1 disrupt neural circuit function and contribute to conditions such as autism spectrum disorder.

Dr. Rumbaugh received his Ph.D. in Biophysics and Pharmacology from Georgetown University in 2000, followed by a postdoctoral fellowship at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine (2000-2006) under Richard Huganir. His academic career at Scripps Research progressed from Assistant Professor (2010-2012), to Associate Professor (2012-2019), and currently Professor (2019-present). He also served as an Adjunct Assistant Professor at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (2006-2009).

The Rumbaugh laboratory investigates how major neurodevelopmental risk genes disrupt synapse function and circuit connectivity through three collaborative working groups: the Neuronal Cell Biology Group (focusing on molecular mechanisms within neuronal subtypes), the Systems Neurobiology Group (using rodent models to understand neural circuit connectivity), and the Small Molecule Discovery Group (seeking drug-like molecules to regulate gene expression). Research employs advanced techniques including Neuropixels, two-photon microscopy, patch clamp, DeepLabCut, whole-brain software, high-throughput screening, and miniscope imaging to study neural circuits and develop potential therapeutic interventions.

Dr. Rumbaugh's publication record demonstrates consistent focus on SYNGAP1-related mechanisms in neurodevelopmental disorders, with recent work exploring cortical sensorimotor dynamics, synaptic plasticity, and therapeutic approaches. His research shows a clear trajectory from basic molecular mechanisms to translational applications, with increasing emphasis on circuit-level understanding and potential therapeutic interventions for neurodevelopmental conditions.

Dr. Rumbaugh has received numerous prestigious awards:

• Member of National Advisory Mental Health Council (2024, NIMH)
• Kavli Fellow, Frontiers of Science (2015-2019)
• NARSAD Faculty Research Award (2009)
• Alabama Health Sciences Foundation Scholar (2006)
• National Research Scholar Award (2002)
• Multiple Faculty of 1000 Selections recognizing significant contributions

As Principal Investigator, Dr. Rumbaugh oversees multiple NIH-funded research projects totaling millions of dollars. His current grants focus on synaptic actin-myosin dynamics, control of synaptic circuits, precision therapy development for monogenic mental health disorders, and understanding the impact of autism genetic risk on cortical sensorimotor dynamics. The laboratory maintains strong collaborations with the Miller Lab at Scripps Florida, as well as researchers at Johns Hopkins, Baylor College of Medicine, Max Planck Florida Institute, and other institutions, combining expertise from basic scientists, clinicians, and families of patients with neurodevelopmental disorders.