Project Mentor

Dr. Corey Acker
Center for Cell Analysis and Modeling

Undergraduate Research Opportunity Description

Project Description	The student will assist with designing, assembling, and testing new microscopy methods. Modifications of an existing 2-photon microscope are planned as well as an epifluorescence microscope for studying cell signaling.
Project Direction	This summer project is part of the lab’s efforts to build better voltage-sensitive dyes, which are used in neuroscience and cardiac research, and allow the electrical signaling of cells to be studied with microscopes. Imaging techniques are also combined with electrophysiology in the lab to perform neuroscience research into the function of synapses and other areas.
Mentorship and Supervision	Student will receive supervision at least 3 times per week in the first 2 weeks to provide orientation material and get the student started with using the microscopes. Plans for modifications and tests will be made together and microscope modifications and optical alignments will be done together initially. Then, plans for testing and further modifications will be developed with a plan for the reports and data expected from the student. Weekly supervision will be maintained as a minimum throughout.
Student Qualifications	Interest or experience with optics, programming in Matlab, and imaging processing is desired.
Summer Schedule Options	Research Dates: May 29 – August 3, 2018 Schedule: M-F, 9am-4pm
Project Continuation	Fall 2018, Spring 2019
Academic Year Time Commitment	6 hours/week
Possible Thesis Project	Yes

Application

Submit an online application for this research opportunity using the form below. The application deadline is Friday, January 26, 2018.

This application requires an unofficial transcript and a brief statement of research interests.