Project Mentor

Dr. Brian Kelley
Department of Neurosurgery

Undergraduate Research Opportunity Description

Project Description	This project focuses on alterations of the blood-meningeal barrier (BMB) after diffuse traumatic brain injury (TBI). Using a mouse model and small animal surgical techniques, post-traumatic changes within the BMB will be studied using immunohistochemical techniques including confocal and immunoelectron microscopy. Research will focus on generating preliminary data for a more comprehensive grant submission seeking to delineate secondary neurovascular injuries following mild TBI / concussion.
Project Direction	Summer studies will inform additional strategies to determine mechanisms of neuroinflammatory responses following mild TBI/concussion. The project will continue to explore these mechanisms throughout the academic year.
Mentorship and Supervision	Mentorship and supervision will be provided my myself working with Dr. Joel Pachter in the Department of Immunology. Training in animal husbandry, mouse perfusion, brain extraction, tissue cutting and processing will be provided. I am available to meet with students most days to monitor progress. Feedback will be offered during interactions and would include a summary evaluation at the end for the rotation.
Student Qualifications	Skills involving animal husbandry, mouse perfusion, brain extraction, tissue cutting and processing using antibody protocols would be preferred.
Summer Schedule Options	Work would be conducted on weekdays during normal daytime hours.
Project Continuation	Fall 2024, Spring 2025
Academic Year Time Commitment	9 hours/week
Possible Thesis Project	Yes

Application

Submit an online application for this research opportunity at https://quest.uconn.edu/prog/HRP24-17. The application deadline is Monday, January 29, 2024.

This application requires a resume or CV, Cover Letter, Statement of Qualifications, Statement of Research Interests, and Statement of Career Interests. References should be available upon request.