Project Mentor
Dr. Tannin Schmidt
Department of Biomedical Engineering
Undergraduate Research Opportunity Description
| Project Description | Proteoglycan 4 (PRG4, also known as lubricin) is a mucin like glycoprotein originally discovered in synovial joints and characterized as a critical lubricant necessary for cartilage health. It is know known to be present at many bio interfaces in the body, including other joints including the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). This project involves biomechanics testing of cartilage in excised mouse TMJ, from PRG4 component and PRG4 deficient mice, via automated indentation mapping to understand the role PRG4 plays in TMJ cartilage health. Additional opportunities will include being involved in other basic and translational PRG4 projects in the lab, and exposure to and opportunity to learn other biochemical, biophysical, and biological techniques. |
| Project Direction | Our lab is unique in the we have access to a full length recombinant human PRG4 (rhPRG4) protein, that has been - and currently is - clinical trials for dry eye disease. Building off many studies showing injection into animal knee joints can delay osteoarthritis, the future goal of this project is to ultimately test injections of rhPRG4 into mouse/rat TMJ and evaluate its therapeutic potential in preventing osteoarthritis progression of the TMJ. |
| Mentorship and Supervision | My office is directly adjacent from the lab, and my door is always open for interaction with students in the lab. I currently have 2 PhD students in the lab, one of which will be assigned as a mentor to train and provide day to day guidance. I will meet with the student at least weekly, and as necessary on a daily basis to provide training and feedback. Progress is monitored based on generation of data, which requires learning methods and being able to analyze it, as well as an overall understanding of the project through discussions. Feedback will be provided in person through our various meetings. |
| Student Qualifications | No specific qualifications required. Some interest in biomedical engineering / biomechanics is potential a benefit, and some experience in a lab is a benefit, but neither are required at this stage. |
| Summer Schedule Options | Research Dates: May 18 to July 24, 2026 Schedule: Monday-Friday 9am through 6pm |
| Project Continuation | Fall 2026, Spring 2027 |
| 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/HRP26-32. The application deadline is Monday, February 16, 2026.
This application requires a Resume or CV, Cover Letter, Unofficial Transcript, GPA and Science GPA, Statement of Research Interests, and Statement of Career Interests. References should be available upon request.