Project Mentor
Dr. Paola Vera-Licona
Center for Cell Analysis and Modeling, Center for Quantitative Medicine
Undergraduate Research Opportunity Description
| Project Description | This summer, our lab offers a unique opportunity for an undergraduate student to engage in computational systems biology research. The project, tailored to align with your academic interests and background, allows you to choose between two key areas: cancer research (e.g., cancer malignancy reversion) or aging studies (e.g., reversing senesce in aged pancreatic beta cells). Utilizing multiomics data, you will learn to model and analyze signaling regulatory networks, employing our in-house software NETISCE, and other computational tools. Your tasks will include (1) network construction and analysis using various omics datasets, (2) applying computational methods for cell reprogramming, and (3) collaborative interpretation and discussion of results. |
| Project Direction | This position is designed for a commitment over the summer, with the potential to extend into an undergraduate thesis. It offers a practical introduction to computational systems biology within a framework of real-world research. Your work will be a critical part of our current collaborative research projects in the cancer and aging fields. This experience will not only provide insight into current research methodologies but also lay the groundwork for potential future academic or research endeavors. Your contribution will be integral to our ongoing projects, and we are committed to providing a meaningful and enriching research experience. |
| Mentorship and Supervision | Our approach to mentorship balances nurturing independence with providing consistent support and guidance. You will be encouraged to independently explore and develop your project while having access to daily short meetings designed to address immediate questions and overcome any obstacles in your research progress. These daily touchpoints ensure that you are never without direction or assistance.
In addition to these brief daily interactions, comprehensive weekly meetings will serve as a platform for more in-depth discussions about your project. These sessions will focus on reviewing your progress, planning next steps, and engaging in critical analysis of the work done. They are an opportunity for thorough feedback and strategic guidance to keep the project on track and moving forward effectively. |
| Student Qualifications | – Experience programming in Python or R. – Interest in computational systems biology and bioinformatics. Even if the student has no experience in these biomedical/computational biology/bioinformatics areas, motivation is extremely important. |
| Summer Schedule Options | To be determined in consultation with the selected student |
| Project Continuation | Fall 2024, Spring 2025 |
| 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/HRP24-36. The application deadline is Monday, January 29, 2024.
This application requires a Resume or CV, Unofficial Transcript, GPA, Statement of Qualifications, and Statement of Research Interest.