Student needed for research at the FDA in Laurel

Tue, 06 Sep 2011 15:33:28 -0400
research

Log into UMBC Works and search for position ID 9247085

General Goal: Define limits of the utility of C. elegans as a model to predict mammalian toxicologic responses

Project Specific Goals: Utilizing heavy metals as a test class of toxicant, the student will study responses in the expression of green fluorescent protein (GFP) gene reporters in transgenic C. elegans. The student will analyze experimental data and correlate this data with published analyses of heavy metal toxicity in mammals. The student will also attempt to define patterns in gene expression such that the presence of specific heavy metals can be identified by the C. elegans response.

Prerequisites: Successful completion of college level courses in basic chemistry, basic biology, cell or systems biology, and genetics. Attention to accuracy and detail is essential, as are excellent oral and written communication skills. Lab experience in maintaining monocultures is preferred. Experience working with C. elegans is desired but not required.

Project Description: After learning to use lab equipment and data analysis software as well as sterile technique and dosing procedures for C. elegans liquid culture, the student will be expected to work a minimum of 12 hours a week, working in alternate weeks to acquire experimental data and then analyze it. In the experimental week, this will entail two 3-hour blocks of time on different days to 1. isolate eggs for age matched cohorts, and 2. dose them (the spacing of the days depends on the age required at dosing); a following 6 hour block of time is needed to acquire data by microscopy imaging or COPAS. In the following week, the student will maintain their worm strains, analyze acquired data, and prepare reports on a more flexible schedule. At the end of each semester, the student is expected to prepare a poster and/or a paper summarizing and discussing their findings. Work can be paused during finals and school vacation time.

Compensation: This is an unpaid project. The student will receive training, work experience, and hopefully authorship on a published paper. Obtaining course credit is the student’s responsibility. This can be facilitated by the Shriver Center.

Required Work Habits:
Regular attendance during standard work hours
Adherence to sterile technique in designated areas
Use only of assigned/designated media and reagents
Care and clean up of utilized lab space and equipment

To apply, Log into UMBC Works and search for position ID 9247085

Minimum time commitment: 12 hours per week

Work Location: Laurel, MD