Project Mentor
Dr. Lakshmi Nair
Department of Orthopedic Surgery
Undergraduate Research Opportunity Description
| Project Description | The goal of the project is to develop bioactive nano-lipid formulation for treating musculoskeletal pain. The study involves preparing the formulation with different molar ratios of the lipids and study how this change affects the shape and structure of the nano-lipid structures. Also involves developing purification methods for the formulation and study the impact of the purification methods on the morphology of the lipids. |
| Project Direction | The research opportunity is focused on developing nano-drug delivery systems for managing musculoskeletal pain. The summer research project will focus on developing nanoparticles and characterizing the morphology of the particles. Once completed, the next phase of the project focus on understanding the effect of the morphology and composition of the particles on cellular functions to modulate pain behavior. |
| Mentorship and Supervision | The student will work closely with a graduate student who is currently pursuing this line of research. The students will be given training to develop and characterize nano-lipids, The student will get opportunity to participate in institutional meetings such as journal club and research meeting. The student will also get opportunity to attend our weekly lab meeting and present and discuss the progress of the study. I have an open door policy and will be available to talk to the student in person as and when needed. |
| Student Qualifications | Background in biology or biochemistry or bioengineering |
| Summer Schedule Options | Research Dates: May 23 to July 29, 2022 Schedule: M-F, 9am-6pm |
| Project Continuation | Fall 2022 |
| 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/HRP22-23. The application deadline is Monday, January 31, 2022.
This application requires a cover letter, a resume or CV, an unofficial transcript, a brief statement of research interests, and a brief statement of career interests.