Project Mentor
Dr. Timothy Spellman
Department of Neuroscience
Undergraduate Research Opportunity Description
| Project Description | This project investigates how the neurotransmitter acetylcholine supports cognitive flexibility in mice performing attentional set-shifting and reversal learning tasks. Students will assist in behavioral testing, data collection, and basic analysis using established rodent cognitive paradigms. The work will contribute to ongoing studies linking neuromodulatory signaling to executive function and decision-making. Prior experience with animal handling is helpful but not required; training will be provided. |
| Project Direction | Students who continue into the academic year will have the opportunity to take on expanded responsibilities, including experimental design refinement and independent data analysis. Continued participation may include assisting with histological verification or optogenetic manipulations of cholinergic circuits. Returning students will also contribute to data visualization and manuscript preparation. Longer-term involvement can evolve into an independent honors or thesis project. |
| Mentorship and Supervision | The student will receive initial hands-on training in behavioral procedures and data recording from the lab’s postdoctoral researcher, who will provide day-to-day guidance. I will meet with the student biweekly to review progress and ensure alignment with research goals. After the initial training period, the student will be expected to work independently within established experimental protocols. This structure promotes autonomy while maintaining close supervision from experienced lab members. |
| Student Qualifications | Applicants should be motivated, detail-oriented, and comfortable working with animals. Coursework in neuroscience, psychology, biology, or related fields is preferred. Basic computer literacy and willingness to learn data collection and analysis software are expected. Prior research experience is advantageous but not required. |
| Summer Schedule Options | Research Dates: May 18 to July 24, 2026 Schedule: This is a full-time summer position, approximately 40 hours per week, with flexible daily scheduling depending on experimental needs. Work will be conducted primarily on-site at UConn Health. Occasional evening or weekend sessions may be preferable depending on behavioral testing schedules. The project runs for 10 weeks, with potential continuation into the following semester. |
| Project Continuation | Fall 2026, Spring 2027 |
| Academic Year Time Commitment | 3-9 hours/week |
| Possible Thesis Project | Yes |
Application
Submit an online application for this research opportunity at https://quest.uconn.edu/prog/HRPSU26-36. The application deadline is Monday, February 16, 2026.
This application requires a cover letter, a resume or CV, GPA, and a statement of research interest. References should be available upon request.