Project Mentor
Dr. Manuel Castro-Alamancos
Department of Neuroscience
Undergraduate Research Opportunity Description
| Project Description | The project is for students in the fields of data science, engineering, computer science, applied math, statistics, biology, psychology, or neuroscience who have programming skills in Python, R, and/or Labview (or others) and who are interested in helping develop tools for automated analyses of complex data pipelines originating from neuroscientific experiments addressing the neural basis of behavior in mice. The student would be involved in developing the software tools used to control the experiments (actuators and computer vision) and/or analyze the data (data models), which includes recordings from hundreds of neurons in behaving mice. Opportunities to participate in the research by conducting experiments are also available. |
| Project Direction | The summer project will be carried out within the framework of two funded NIH grants that are deciphering the neural circuits involved in approach and avoidance behavior. The project will have a continuation for several years. |
| Mentorship and Supervision | The student will be in contact with the PI daily, either directly in the lab or using the chat system we run on our servers, which allows for seamless, constant communication. |
| Student Qualifications | Students must be proficient in at least one of the following programming languages: Python, R, or Labview. A basic understanding of neuroscience would be useful but is not essential. Interest in biomedical research would be appropriate. |
| Summer Schedule Options | Monday- Friday 9 am- 6 pm. |
| 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/HRP24-5. The application deadline is Monday, January 29, 2024.
This application requires a Cover Letter, Resume or CV, Unofficial Transcript, Science GPA, Statement of Qualifications, Statement of Research Interests, and Statement of Career Interests. References should be available upon request.