Project Mentor

Dr. Henry Smilowitz
Department of Cell Biology

Undergraduate Research Opportunity Description

Project Description	Our lab, in collaboration with a biotech company, has shown that a well tolerated, biologically compatible nanoparticle can enhance radiation therapy of tumor cells using a clinical irradiator. We have also shown that the nanoparticle is taken up by tumors growing in mice more than the surrounding tissue. Initial microlocalization studies show a heterogeneous distribution within the tumor. Experiments going forward will be designed to test the efficacy of the nanoparticle as a radiation enhancer of tumors growing in mice, to maximize tumor uptake of the nanoparticles and to understand the basic biology of nanoparticle-tumor interaction.
Project Direction	Radiation therapy its used to treat roughly half of all cancers in the USA. The efficacy of radiation therapy is limited by normal tissue tolerance. Therefore a well tolerated biological that can significantly enhance radiation therapy provided by a clinical irradiator would be expected to improve human and veterinary cancer therapy. Going forward, experiments will be conducted to test the efficacy of the nanoparticle on tumors growing in mice and to maximize the ability of the nanoparticles to load tumors in vivo. Experiments will also be designed to better understand the tumoral structures to which the nanoparticles interact and how the radiation enhancement provides enhanced tumor control. Since radiation therapy synergies with chemotherapy, immunotherapy and oncolytic virus therapy, nanoparticle enhanced radiation therapy would be expected to enhance combination cancer therapies.
Mentorship and Supervision	I will directly mentor and supervise the students. The students will receive training they need to conduct experiments. Students should be willing to work with mice. I will assess progress by direct student interaction on a daily basis and provide feed back on a regular basis.
Student Qualifications	I prefer students who are finishing their third year who wish to continue research into their senior year for an honors thesis. That being said, I have taken students who have finished their second year. Most students who are interested in our lab have an interest in pursuing a career in medicine or science. I seek students who are passionate about learning and research and are looking for a full time research opportunity. I look forward to students who are willing to read relevant literature, ask questions and come up with ideas and suggestions.
Summer Schedule Options	Research Dates: May 19 to July 25, 2025 Schedule: M-F, 9-5, at least the full 10 weeks
Project Continuation	Fall 2025, Spring 2026
Academic Year Time Commitment	3, 6, or 9 hours/week
Possible Thesis Project	Yes

Application

Submit an online application for this research opportunity at https://quest.uconn.edu/prog/HRPSU25-27. The application deadline is Monday, February 17, 2025.

This application requires a cover letter, a resume or CV, an unofficial transcript, GPA and science GPA, a brief statement of research interests, a brief statement of career interests, and references.