Project Mentor
Dr. Yanlin Wang
Department of Medicine
Undergraduate Research Opportunity Description
| Project Description | The summer research project will examine the role of TRIM28, a transcriptional and epigenetic factor, in tubular epithelial cell damage, inflammation, and fibrosis of the kidney. Molecular, cell, genetic, and pharmacological approaches will be used in this research project. Students can learn a wide range of biological techniques such as cell culture, cell proliferation and differentiation, PCR, real time RT-PCR, Western blot, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, histology, animal models of kidney disease. |
| Project Direction | Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a growing public health problem afflicting more than 37 million Americans. The current therapeutic options for this progressive disease are limited; therefore, novel therapeutic strategies are urgently needed. This project is expected to provide novel insights into the molecular mechanisms of CKD and could lead to the development of novel therapeutic strategies for the treatment of CKD. |
| Mentorship and Supervision | The student will be working and conducting experiments with the direct supervision of the postdoctoral researcher in my laboratory. I will meet the student weekly to go over the goals of each set of experiments, the results, and future steps. I have an open door policy for the student. If necessary, the student can meet with me daily to discuss the research project and experiments. |
| Student Qualifications | The student should have a basic understanding of biology, be hard-working and highly motivated, and have a strong interest in kidney disease research. Minimum GPA: 3.2 |
| Summer Schedule Options | Research Dates: May 18 to July 24, 2026 Schedule: Monday-Friday 9am through 5pm |
| Project Continuation | Fall 2026, Spring 2027 |
| Academic Year Time Commitment | 3, 6, or 9 hours/week |
| Possible Thesis Project | Yes |
Application
Submit an online application for this research opportunity at https://quest.uconn.edu/prog/HRPSU26-40. The application deadline is Monday, February 16, 2026.
This application requires a cover letter, a resume or CV, GPA minimum of 3.2, and a statement of research interests.