Project Mentor
Dr. Oscar Vargas-Rodriguez
Departments of Molecular Biology and Biophysics
Undergraduate Research Opportunity Description
| Project Description | The summer research project aims to decipher the functional role of a family of proteins known as aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases in bacterial pathogenicity. These proteins regulate protein biosynthesis and may enable pathogenic microbes to survive, adapt, and thrive in different environments, particularly within their host during colonization and infection. The student will perform standard molecular biology and biochemistry assays, including molecular cloning, protein, nucleic acid manipulation, enzymatic assays, and cell-based experiments. |
| Project Direction | The summer project will set the groundwork for understanding how aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases work in one organism. Additional work into the academic year will be needed to study various aminoacyl-tRNA synthetases in other organisms. |
| Mentorship and Supervision | The summer research project aims to provide opportunities for students to apply the scientific principles they learn in the classroom and expand their knowledge in microbiology, enzymology, genetics, bioinformatics, protein evolution, and molecular biophysics. The student researcher will work with Oscar (the principal investigator) and other lab members in different aspects of research (experimental design, discussion, data analysis, and communication) and are expected to gain independence over time. The student will gain hands-on experience with bioinformatics, database mining, evolutionary biology, sterile techniques, bacterial growths, nucleic acid isolation, PCR, molecular cloning and genetics, protein purification, and enzymology. The student will also acquire transferable skills such as critical thinking by reviewing scientific literature and interpreting data, scientific communication by giving presentations and writing progress reports, working in teams, project management, leadership, and problem-solving. The student will be encouraged to attend seminars, workshops, and other events associated with scientific training and career development offered across the UConn Health community. Progress expectations will be discussed during lab orientation (first week). Progress will be evaluated in weekly group meetings and one-on-one meetings with Oscar. The one-on-one sessions with Oscar will be used to provide feedback and discuss short- and long-term project objectives and opportunities for developing skills and foundational knowledge that advance the student’s career goals. |
| Student Qualifications |
Students interested in scientific research and developing laboratory skills in molecular biology, microbiology, and biochemistry are qualified. Students from underrepresented backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply. Students should have good organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work with others and take directions.
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| Summer Schedule Options | Research Dates: May 22 to July 28, 2023 Tentative Schedule: M-F, 9am-5pm |
| Project Continuation | Fall 2024, Spring 2025 |
| Academic Year Time Commitment | 9 hours/week |
| Possible Thesis Project | Yes |
Application
Submit an online application for this research opportunity at https://quest.uconn.edu/prog/HRP24-35. The application deadline is Monday, January 29, 2024.
This application requires a cover letter, resume or CV, Unofficial Transcript, and Statement of Qualifications. References should be available upon request.