Project Mentor

Dr. Christopher Heinen
Center for Molecular Medicine

Undergraduate Research Opportunity Description

Project Description	Our laboratory uses human intestinal organoids as a model to study the effects of cancer causing mutations on intestinal stem cells. In the current project, the undergraduate student would work in partnership with members of the lab to create, maintain and characterize these organoids that have been genetically engineered using CRISPR/Cas9 to carry different mutations in the DNA mismatch repair (MMR) genes. This project will involve learning advanced cell culture techniques, molecular biology techniques such as RT-PCR and cell biology techniques such as immunofluorescence microscopy.
Project Direction	Our laboratory studies the molecular biology of the hereditary colorectal cancer disease called Lynch syndrome, caused by germline mutations in the DNA mismatch repair genes. Using CRISPR/Cas9 genetic engineering, we are creating patient-derived MMR gene mutations in human intestinal organoids to study the effects of these mutations on intestinal stem cell dynamics and damage response. Our interest is in understanding how defects in MMR leads to tumorigenesis and if this information can be used to eliminate these cells before they become malignant cancers.
Student Qualifications	The most important qualifications include above all an insatiable curiosity for understanding how healthy cells turn into deadly cancers cells combined with a willingness to work hard and keep fighting even when things don’t seem to be proceeding smoothly. In addition, coursework in molecular and/or cellular biology would be a great benefit. Any hands-on experience in molecular biology or tissue culture work would be useful, though we will provide training.
Time Commitment	3-9 hours/week
Schedule Options	Understanding the complications of traveling from Storrs that is involved, we will do our best to work with the student to figure out a schedule that will allow them to be productive. Most likely, it would not make sense to come out here for less than three hours at a time. The more time a student can commit to spending in the laboratory, the more aspects of the project they will be able to learn and the more independent they will become.
Project Continuation	Summer 2017 and/or Fall 2017
Possible Thesis Project	Yes

Application

Submit an online application for this research opportunity using the form below. The application deadline is Friday, January 6, 2017.

This application requires a resume or CV, unofficial transcript, brief statement of research interests, and brief statement of career interests.