Project Mentor

Dr. Yulan Xiong 
Department of Neuroscience

Undergraduate Research Opportunity Description

Project Description	The research opportunity available for the summer is to identify the new molecules involved in Parkinson’s disease (PD) pathogenesis by performing genome-wide genetic screenings using single cell organism budding yeast. After identifying the new molecules, we will initialize the characterization of the functions of these new genes by performing a series of biochemistry studies (e.g. molecular cloning, western blotting, Co- immunoprecipitation, Confocal microscopy etc) using human cell and primary neuronal cultures.
Project Direction	Our lab focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying Parkinson’s disease (PD), the most common movement disorder. Identification and characterization of the new molecules will help us understand how they are involved in PD pathogenesis.
Mentorship and Supervision	1. Daily in-person meeting with PI about the detailed experimental design, data analysis and discussion, Literature exploration 2. Weekly in-person lab meeting to present in front of the whole lab to report/ discuss the progress/ trouble-shooting. 3. Email communications as needed any time
Student Qualifications	Understanding basic genetics and molecular techniques are desired: PCR, Western blotting, molecular cloning etc
Summer Schedule Options	Research Dates: May 23 to July 29, 2022 Schedule: M-F, 9am-6pm
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/HRP22-34. 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. Reference information should be provided in application.