Project Mentor

Dr. Misti Zamora
Department of Public Health Sciences

Undergraduate Research Opportunity Description

Project Description	The primary project objective is to investigate how an individual’s choices influence personal exposures to traffic-related air pollutants (TRAPs) and the corresponding acute health effects. During the two 48-hour sampling periods, real-time air pollution data will be measured using an instrument that my team created. These measurements will be complemented with assessments of blood pressure, lung function, and pulmonary inflammation of the lower airways. We will work together to understand how people’s exposures to air pollution impacts their health by collecting and analyzing this information for 65 participants (ongoing throughout the next year).
Project Direction	Completion of these aims will improve our understanding of traffic-related air pollution exposures, how exposures can be reduced, and the potential health benefits. This project brings in a key component of the personal exposure paradigm, an individual’s decision-induced reductions in exposure. This knowledge will enable individuals to make lifestyle choices that can reduce their exposure independent of regulatory changes and may provide health-based evidence to support the expansion of positions with flexible hours.
Mentorship and Supervision	We will have set meetings weekly to discuss the project progress, but I am open to “pop-up” meetings as needed. When we start the project, we will work through an Individual Development Plan (IDP) to ensure we both understand our goals for this mentor-mentee relationship.
Student Qualifications	An ideal student would be interested in working with community members to explain what we do and be interested in the data analysis process. The student does not need to know any data processing tools prior to the summer experience but should be willing to learn how with my guidance.
Summer Schedule Options	Research Dates: May 22 to July 28, 2023 Schedule: Meetings with community members will most likely take place between 4-6 PM, but these will occur as needed for the study. Flexible work hours can be discussed otherwise.
Project Continuation	Fall 2023, Spring 2024
Academic Year Time Commitment	3-6 hours/week
Possible Thesis Project	Yes

Application

Submit an online application for this research opportunity at https://quest.uconn.edu/prog/HRP23-47. The application deadline is Monday, January 30, 2023.

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. References should be available upon request.