Project Mentor

Dr. Corey Acker
Center for Cell Analysis and Modeling

Undergraduate Research Opportunity Description

Project Description	The student will support testing of new voltage-sensitive dyes using cell culture assays. Custom fluorescence microscopy equipment is used along with patch clamp electrophysiology to control and monitor the voltage inside cells, including human stem cell derived heart cells, by recording voltage changes optically as well as electrically. MATLAB is used for all aspects, from hardware control to data analysis.
Project Direction	Voltage-sensitive dyes are being developed for many applications. In our lab, we work with neurons and study synaptic signaling and how it might change in autism. We also work with heart cells and heart-related projects through collaborations.
Mentorship and Supervision	For the first few weeks, the intern will work directly with me to learn the technique necessary. At that time, a specific project will be defined, which could include more hardware/software development, or more experimental work doing cell culture and electrophysiology. The intern will finish the project working mostly independently and will follow up with me once per week and give one final presentation to our group.
Student Qualifications	Experience or interest in Matlab, microscopy, circuits, cell culture.
Summer Schedule Options	Research Dates: May 23 to July 29, 2022 Schedule: M-F, 9am-6:00pm
Project Continuation	Fall 2022, Spring 2023
Academic Year Time Commitment	6 hours/week
Possible Thesis Project	Yes

Application

Submit an online application for this research opportunity at https://quest.uconn.edu/prog/HRP22-1. The application deadline is Monday, January 31, 2022.

This application requires a resume or CV, an unofficial transcript and references should be available upon request.