Mentor Areas
Genetics, Cell and developmental biology, epithelial matrix biology, signal transduction
Description:
Our lab’s research utilizes the nematode C. elegans as a model system for studying the cell biology and developmental roles of the apical extracellular matrix (aECM). This matrix fills and shapes tube lumens, protects the animal from pathogens and other environmental insults, and forms complex three-dimensional structures that decorate the animal’s surface. Related matrices in humans include things like the vascular glycocalyx, lung surfactant, and the mucus-rich linings of the gut and upper airway. There are many questions about how components traffic to and assemble within these matrices, and how genetic or environmental perturbations disrupt them.
A student will have the opportunity to work with a postdoctoral fellow to analyze single nucleus RNAseq data and select potential matrix genes of interest for further study, including by RNAi or mutant generation and microscopy.
Preferred Qualifications
Undergraduate classes in molecular genetics and cell or developmental biology will be helpful for understanding our research questions and methods. Prior experience with C. elegans, microscopy, and/or bioinformatics would be a plus but are not required.
Project Website
Learn more about the researcher and/or the project here. https://sundaramlab.com/
Details:
Preferred Student Year
Second-Year, Junior, Senior
Academic Term
Fall
I prefer to have students start during the above term(s).Volunteer
No
Yes indicates that faculty are open to volunteers.Paid
Yes
Yes indicates that faculty are open to paying students they engage in their research, regardless of their work-study eligibility.Work Study
Yes
Yes indicates that faculty are open to hiring work-study-eligible students.