Richmond Institute for Veterans Research
​(Formerly known as McGuire Research Institute, Inc.)
We invite you to learn about how we are exploring the possibilities through cutting-edge research, bringing quality care to our Veterans, and building a better future.
We are committed to providing quality health care to Veterans and offer opportunities for patients to participate in research-related clinical trials.
The cutting-edge research conducted at RIVR consists of laboratory studies, clinical studies, and health outcomes pertaining to a wide range of disease processes and conditions that affect Veterans as well as the general population.
At RIVR we support education and training for employee and patient related activities.
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Latest Happenings
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Join us for an afternoon of tasty beer and great music to raise awareness and help the Alzheimer's Association continue to provide care and support while accelerating critical research.
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The Monthly Buzz
This Black History Month, RIVR honors the brilliance and lasting impact of Black medical pioneers who transformed healthcare and medical research.
From Charles Drew’s revolutionary blood banking research to Patricia Bath’s pioneering laser innovations and Jane Cooke Wright’s advancements in chemotherapy, their work continues to shape medicine and inspire innovation today.
We are proud to carry that legacy forward in service to Veterans.
Research Spotlights
Learn more about the dedicated individuals and teams at Richmond Institute for Veterans Research who are committed to advancing research for the benefit of our veterans.
The Richmond Institute for Veterans Research is honored to celebrate Dr. Denise Lester's outstanding achievement in receiving the 2026 Lisa Stearns Diversity Award from the American Society of Pain and Neuroscience.
This prestigious recognition shines a light on her unwavering commitment to fostering a more inclusive and equitable environment in pain medicine, paving the way for a future where every individual can access exceptional care.
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With her remarkable leadership and dedication with nearly 30 years of service, Dr. Lester has left an indelible mark on Veteran care, pain research, and the development of future clinicians. She inspires us to continue striving for a brighter tomorrow.
🔬 VA Research News & Advancements
Over the last few months, NAVREF has been collaborating with the global market research firm Ipsos on a project to collect data regarding Veterans’ perceptions of VA research. This groundbreaking survey conducted by Ipsos in partnership with NAVREF, highlights the OVERWHELMING veteran (and American public) support for research conducted by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).
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Article from Ipsos: https://www.ipsos.com/en-us/americans-support-va-research-better-veteran-care-and-medical-advancements
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NAVREF Press Release: https://navref.org/Advocacy/13495369
Voice of the Veteran: What Inspires Us
Through this powerful new series, NAVREF will shine a spotlight on veterans who have
contributed to groundbreaking medical advancements by taking part in clinical research at the VA. Click the link below to read these impactful stories and learn what inspires us to continue our work with VA Research.
OUR PATIENTS SAY...
"Effects of Electrical Stimulation and Vitamin D Supplementation of Bone
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I really enjoyed participating in the program. I have benefited from the exercise and training a great deal I had muscle atrophy in my legs and torso area from my injury 27 years ago but I can feel more muscle mass in my calves,thighs, and buttocks, also me being a T1 C8 paraplegic, my stomach muscles don't work making it bigger and since I started the study my stomach and waist size has gotten smaller I lost 3 and a 1/2 pounds I feel that overall I'm healthier at the present than at the start of the study. I hope that my participation in the study will help someone else as well. "
"Participating in the research last conducted I hope helped the team learn and find avenues to help people who need blood thinners. I hope my being a part helped to find a better solution."
