Project Mentor
Dr. Kshitiz
Department of Biomedical Engineering
Undergraduate Research Opportunity Description
| Project Description | When we think of cancer, we mostly think of cells constituting the neoplastic part of cancer. But a cancerous lesion consists of many other cell types, which could resist, or help in its progression. These “stromal cells” consist of activated fibroblasts, macrophages, endothelial cells, as well as the specialized environment modulated by these cells. In our lab, we attempt to systematically understand how cancer and stromal cells interact with each other using a variety of approaches, including microfluidics, nanotechnology, live cell imaging, and genetic screens. We aim to elucidate the mechanisms through which stroma facilitates cancer to grow, become invasive, and resistant to chemotherapeutic drugs. |
| Project Direction | Collecting samples from patient biopsies. Histology and imaging based experiments. Quantification of experiments for metastasis on our nanotextured platform |
| Mentorship and Supervision | Student will be provided a primary mentor, a senior scientist who will assist the student. The student is expected to gain independence in 1 week of training, and will be then supervised with a lighter touch. The student will be presenting the work in a final presentation, and also prepare a poster. |
| Student Qualifications | Interest in science |
| Summer Schedule Options | Research Dates: May 18 to July 24, 2026 Schedule: Monday-Friday 9-5pm. |
| 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/HRPSU26-20. The application deadline is Monday, February 16, 2026.
This application requires a cover letter, a resume or CV, science GPA. References should be available upon request.