Dr. Ritz's research interests investigated new procedures and techniques that hold promise in helping to alleviate the devastating consequences of injury to the spinal cord. Dr. Ritz is the course director for Medical Neuroscience, a first year course for medical students, and a member of the College of Medicine Curriculum Committee. As a member of the University of Florida Center for Spirituality and Health, he co-directs Honors Undergraduate courses entitled “Spirituality and Health” and “Neurotheology”. Dr. Ritz has had a longtime interest in meditation and in the relationship of the central nervous system, and of trans-brain mechanisms, to mystical experiences.