Project Mentor
Dr. Douglas Oliver
Neuroscience
Undergraduate Research Opportunity Description
| Project Description | We will develop an electrophysiological test to demonstrate the presence or absence of tinnitus in animals and human subjects. Over the summer, this will involve electrophysiological recordings from neurons deep in the brains of mice who are exposed to sound. We will study the changes in sound-evoked activity before, during, and after drug-induced tinnitus. |
| Project Direction | The project is part of a large effort to establish an objective test for tinnitus based on long-lasting sound-evoked afterdischarges in the inferior colliculus. Such a test would be useful in the diagnosis of tinnitus in animals and human patients. The Department of Defense sponsors this project as it has a large population of active military and who are exposed to loud noise and develop tinnitus. |
| Mentorship and Supervision | The student will be supervised daily by Dr. Alice Burghard and the PI. The student will be required to discuss journal articles on relevant topics. |
| Student Qualifications | Students with a background in neuroscience are preferred. Courses in Anatomy & Physiology, Physiological Psychology, Sensation & Perception, and Biology of the Brain will provide the most appropriate background. Minimum GPA: 3.5. |
| Summer Schedule Options | Research Dates: 9-10 full-time weeks to be scheduled between May 7 and August 24, 2018. Students are encouraged to participate in the Neuroscience in Salamanca, Spain study abroad program. A research schedule can be arranged that follows the study abroad period (June 25 – August 24), or that precedes and follows the study abroad period (May 7-18 + June 25 – August 10). Schedule: To be determined in consultation with the selected student |
| Project Continuation | Fall 2018, Spring 2019 |
| Academic Year Time Commitment | 9 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 a cover letter, a resume or CV, and an unofficial transcript.