Project Mentor

Dr. Kurutihalli Vishwanatha
Neuroscience

Undergraduate Research Opportunity Description

Project Description	My lab is interested in molecular mechanisms involved in secretory and endocytic pathways of endocrine cells. One of the project investigates novel roles of PAM, an amidating enzyme of the secretory pathway in exosome secretion. This project is aimed at characterizing the secretion of exosomes by atrial cardiomyocytes derived from WT and conditional PAM knock out mice.
Project Direction	Exosomes have emerged as important players for intercellular communication in both normal and pathophysiological conditions. Research studies focused at understanding generation and secretion of these nano vesicles have become vital tools in understanding disease progression and also for developing novel therapeutic strategies to mitigate the diseases. The trainee will get hands-on experience in various cell culture techniques like isolation and culturing of primary cells from mouse like cardiomyocytes. The project also involves collecting of spent medium at various time points for isolating and characterizing exosomes.
Mentorship and Supervision	The student will be integrated into a well organized laboratory working environment. He/she will be trained sufficiently in the techniques demanded by the project and is allowed to shadow other people in the lab to learn to the fullest extent. The progress of the project is closely monitored at regular intervals by direct interaction with the mentor. The student is given opportunity to present work in progress reports during the weekly group meetings.
Student Qualifications	The student must have prior basic laboratory experience. The student must be enthusiastic about the research activity and show active participation in the due course of the project. Course work completed/in progress in biochemistry and molecular biology aspects always helps. The student is expected to have substantial interest in biomedical research and academic studies. Minimum GPA: 3.7. Minimum Science GPA: 3.6.
Summer Schedule Options	Research Dates: May 29 – August 3, 2018 Schedule: M-F, 9am-6pm
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, a brief statement of research interests, a brief statement of career interests, and a brief statement about past research experience.