Project Mentor
Dr. Mallika Ghosh
Department of Center for Vascular Biology
Undergraduate Research Opportunity Description
| Project Description | Cell-cell fusion is a highly specialized process mediated by fusion regulatory proteins involved in a variety of diverse cellular functions. CD13, a transmembrane protein that we study in my lab, controls many cellular functions including adhesion, migration, membrane organization, and endocytosis which are all critical in cell-cell fusion. Studies in our lab showed that CD13 is a critical regulator of cell-cell fusion during osteoclastogenesis and macrophage giant cell formation, and thus is a novel target for therapeutic intervention in pathological conditions mediated by defects in cell-cell fusion such as osteoporosis and foreign body response (FBR). FBR is triggered by implantation of any medical devices such as hernia mesh, glucose sensors, cardiac and neural implants, among others. Our objective is to prevent the failure of critical medical implants through monoclonal antibody-based therapy in both in vitro and in vivo models of foreign implants. |
| Project Direction | In the summer project, the student will learn about the background literature related to the project and research techniques such as tissue culture, cell-based assay, histology, and microscopy, and eventually learn how to perform implant surgery in mice. During the academic year, since the student will be spending limited time in the lab, I will advise to focus on in vitro assays and analyses that can be achieved during that time. For example, the student can analyze data that was gathered during the summer research, focus on histology, immunohistochemistry, and microscopic analysis of sections that were obtained during the summer research, write reports for manuscripts, and presentation at conferences. |
| Mentorship and Supervision | 1. Perform assigned readings of scientific papers on related topics- and discuss with mentor regularly 2. Observe procedures performed by mentor and lab members 3. Perform experimental procedures under the guidance of the mentor 4. Have regular communication and problems if any about experimental procedures and techniques with mentor 5. Follow protocols written and develop new protocols for new procedures implemented 6. Reflection Journal & Lab Notebook 7. Presentations in the Center and Lab Meetings 8. Present Poster at the Fall and Spring UConn Frontiers 9. Application to fellowships including SURF, Idea Grant 10. Have meetings with the mentor about opportunities to gain experience and guidance on career options 11, Apply for fellowships including: Undergrad Fellowship Programs and American Society for Cell Biology Travel fellowship |
| Student Qualifications | Coursework in Biological Sciences and Chemistry will be helpful but not mandatory. Specific skills including wet-lab (experimental) and dry-lab (specific software for imaging and other assays such as FIJI, Zen, and GraphPad prism) will be taught during the summer research. Students who wish to join graduate school or medical school are encouraged to apply. |
| Summer Schedule Options | Research Dates: May 18 to July 24, 2026 Schedule: Mon-Fri, 9AM-5PM |
| Project Continuation | Fall 2026, Spring 2027 |
| Academic Year Time Commitment | 3 hours/week |
| Possible Thesis Project | Yes |
Application
Submit an online application for this research opportunity at https://quest.uconn.edu/prog/HRPSU26-12. The application deadline is Monday, February 16, 2026.
This application requires a cover letter, a resume or CV, an unofficial transcript, GPA and Science GPA a brief statement of research interests, and a brief statement of career interests. References should be available upon request.