Project Mentor
Dr. James Li
Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences
Undergraduate Research Opportunity Description
| Project Description | We study how the brain develops and how abnormal development contributes to brain disorders. We are using a number of approaches, including single-cell genomics and epigenomics, molecular biology, and experiments in stem cells and animal models (mouse and chick), to study the generation of various neurons and the assembly of neural circuitry, particularly in the cerebellum. Our multidisciplinary study will provide students with ample opportunities to explore different research approaches and identify a project that aligns with the individual’s skill, interest, and career goal. |
| Project Direction | The main goal of the summer research is to help students learn necessary skillsets and identify a potential long-term project leading a research paper published in peer-reviewed journals. The potential skillsets include molecular cloning, histology, mouse genetics, brain dissection, imaging, image processing, genomic data analysis, literature survey, and troubleshooting. |
| Mentorship and Supervision | I will talk with the student to develop a training plan consistent with student’s career goal. Students are mentored on a day-to-day basis by a PhD student or research associate in the lab. In weekly lab meetings, research progress and feedback will be discussed. Students are encouraged to participate in seminars, symposia, and workshops in the departments and UConn Health campus. |
| Student Qualifications | I look for students with outstanding self-motivation, maturity, and work ethic. The student should have a strong interest in neuroscience, preferably with a long-term research program beyond the summer. |
| Summer Schedule Options | Research Dates: May 22 to July 28, 2023 Schedule: M-F, 8am-4:30pm |
| Project Continuation | Fall 2023, Spring 2024 |
| 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/HRP23-22. The application deadline is Monday, January 30, 2023.
This application requires a resume or CV, GPA, and science GPA. References should be available upon request.