Mentor Areas
Biochemistry, molecular biology, behavioral analysis, and electrophysiology.
Description:
The list of major genetic risk factors in epileptic phenotypes is quite diverse, with genes involved in cellular functions ranging from epigenetic to ion channel regulation. Despite significant progress in the genetic mechanisms of these disorders, the neuropathological circuit mechanisms by which genetic risk factors result in the development of hyperexcitable networks remain uncertain. Notably, it is still unknown whether these mutations cause hyper- or hypoexcitability of intrinsic or synaptic properties, in which neurons is this effect most prevalent, and what impact mutations these risk factor genes have on complex network dynamics. To that end, the main objective of my research lab is to investigate the cellular substrates leading to the epileptic brain using multiscale tools including two-photon calcium imaging, optogenetics, immunohistochemistry, single-cell sequencing, and electrophysiology.
The goal of my research, therefore, is to comprehensively analyze the intrinsic firing properties of inhibitory and excitatory neurons, as well as synaptic and network activity in multiple epileptogenic brain areas. In addition, the molecular basis of electrophysiological circuit abnormalities and their causal relationship with disease phenotypes will be established.
Preferred Qualifications
I am open to to students with no experience, just a strong desire to learn and grow intellectually.
Project Website
Learn more about the researcher and/or the project here. https://www.research.chop.edu/marsh-laboratory
Details:
Preferred Student Year
Junior, Senior
Academic Term
Fall, Spring
I prefer to have students start during the above term(s).Volunteer
Yes
Yes indicates that faculty are open to volunteers.Paid
No
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.