Project Mentor
Dr. Rajkumar Verma
Department of Neuroscience
Undergraduate Research Opportunity Description
| Project Description | Encephalomyosynangiosis (EMS) is a neurosurgical procedure with low morbidity that is applied to promote collateral vascular formation in patients with moyamoya disease, a condition with progressive narrowing of cranial arteries and consequent low blood flow that increases risk for ischemic stroke. Therefore, we hypothesized that EMS, which provides a local and robust tissue as a source of vascular endothelium and angiogenic growth factors, will supply growth factors for angiogenesis that could promote neuronal survival following ischemic stroke. As a proof of concept, we have established EMS surgery for the first time in mice after ischemic stroke. The student will be helpful in investigating EMS for treating ischemic stroke for the following overall goals: to determine if EMS promotes angiogenesis after a ischemic stroke, and to determine if EMS promotes long-term functional recovery after ischemic stroke. |
| Project Direction | Our research will help us to determine is EMS can be a treatment option for ischemic stroke. Does EMS improve angiogenesis and, if yes, can it be applied to various pathologies where blood supply is poor? |
| Mentorship and Supervision | Student will work with lab members (postdoc, research assistant) and progress will be determined by PI during lab meetings or 1:1 meetings. Will provide feedback both in lab meetings and 1:1 meetings. |
| Student Qualifications | The candidate should be motivated to do bench work in the lab. Should be able to work with rodents (mice) if needed. Should have research interest in cerebrovascular disorders. |
| Summer Schedule Options | Research Dates: May 22 to July 28, 2023 Schedule: M-F, to be arranged (PI available 9am-5:30pm) |
| Project Continuation | Fall 2023, Spring 2024 |
| 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/HRP23-41. The application deadline is Monday, January 30, 2023.
This application requires a cover letter and a resume or CV. References should be available upon request.