Project Mentor
Dr. Oscar Vargas-Rodriguez
Department of Molecular Biology and Biophysics
Undergraduate Research Opportunity Description
| Project Description | The summer research project aims to elucidate the functional role of protein synthesis factors in bacterial pathogenicity. These proteins regulate protein biosynthesis and may enable pathogenic microbes to survive, adapt, and thrive in different environments, particularly within their host during colonization and infection. The student(s) will perform standard molecular biology and biochemistry assays, including molecular cloning, protein, nucleic acid manipulation, enzymatic assays, and cell-based experiments. |
| Project Direction | The summer project will lay the groundwork for understanding the functions of these translation factors across different bacterial species. Additional work throughout the academic year will be needed to study various factors involved in protein synthesis across different organisms. |
| Mentorship and Supervision | The summer research project aims to provide students with opportunities to apply the scientific principles they learn in the classroom and to expand their knowledge in microbiology, enzymology, genetics, bioinformatics, protein evolution, and molecular biophysics. Students will work with Oscar (the principal investigator) and other lab members in different aspects of research (experimental design, discussion, data analysis, and communication) and are expected to gain independence over time. Student(s) will gain hands-on experience with bioinformatics, database mining, evolutionary biology, sterile techniques, bacterial growths, nucleic acid isolation, PCR, molecular cloning and genetics, protein purification, and enzymology. Students will also acquire transferable skills such as critical thinking by reviewing scientific literature and interpreting data, scientific communication by giving presentations and writing progress reports, working in teams, project management, leadership, and problem-solving. The student(s) will be encouraged to attend seminars, workshops, and other events associated with scientific training and career development offered across the UConn Health community.
Progress expectations will be discussed during lab orientation (first week). Progress will be evaluated in weekly group meetings and one-on-one meetings with Oscar. The one-on-one sessions with Oscar will be used to provide feedback and discuss short- and long-term project objectives, as well as opportunities to develop skills and foundational knowledge that advance students’ career goals. |
| Student Qualifications | Students interested in scientific research and developing laboratory skills in molecular biology, microbiology, and biochemistry are qualified. Students from underrepresented backgrounds in science are strongly encouraged to apply. Applicants should have good organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work with others and take directions. |
| Summer Schedule Options | Research Dates: May 18 to July 24, 2026 Schedule: Monday-Friday, 9:00am-5 pm. |
| Project Continuation | Fall 2026, Spring 2027 |
| Academic Year Time Commitment | 9 hours/week |
| Possible Thesis Project | Yes |
Application
Submit an online application for this research opportunity at https://quest.uconn.edu/prog/HRPSU26-39. The application deadline is Monday, February 16, 2026.
This application requires a cover letter, a resume or CV, and an unofficial transcript. References should be available upon request.