Project Mentor

Dr. Penghua Wang 
Department of Immunology

Undergraduate Research Opportunity Description

Project Description	This project will identify and functionally characterize the E3 ligases that are essential for SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19) replication. We will apply CRISPR-Cas9 technology to generate gene knockout cells, examine if SARS-CoV-2 replication is impaired in gene-deleted cells when compared to gene-sufficient cells. We will then understand how the candidate genes help virus replicate, i.e., molecular mechanism of action. Significance: The candidate host genes could be potential antiviral drug targets.
Project Direction	We are interested in the mechanisms of pathogenesis of important viral diseases, including arthritogenic alphaviruses and coronaviruses. Specifically, we attempt to understand how the immune system controls viral replication and how viruses hijack cellular pathways for replication.
Mentorship and Supervision	The student will 1) work directly under a PhD student or postdoc, 2) participate in weekly lab meetings and report work progress weekly at meetings, 3) get feedback from me and all lab members at weekly lab meetings, and 4) meet with me whenever he/she feels necessary.
Student Qualifications	1. The student shall have completed molecular and cell biology courses. 2. Basic lab skills such as PCR, cell culture, immunoblotting etc. are preferred. 3. Must be self-motivated.
Summer Schedule Options	Research Dates: May 23 to July 29, 2022 Schedule: M-F, 9am-5:30pm
Project Continuation	Fall 2022, Spring 2023
Academic Year Time Commitment	6-9 hours/week
Possible Thesis Project	Yes

Application

Submit an online application for this research opportunity at https://quest.uconn.edu/prog/HRP22-30. The application deadline is Monday, January 31, 2022.

This application requires a cover letter, a resume or CV, an unofficial transcript, and a brief statement of research interests.