Mentor Areas
Pediatric neurogenetic disorders can teach us about the role of critical proteins that maintain brain health and function. We are interested in particular in how mitochondrial dysfunction in rare disorders plays a role in neurodegeneration with the ultimate goal of developing better neuroprotective strategies for these devastating disorders.
Description:
Our projects include functional validation of novel disease genes, establishing human IPSC-based neural models of novel syndromes and understanding mechanisms by which mitochondrial dysfunction contributes to neurodegeneration. Our lab predominantly works with models of TBCK syndrome, as Dr Ortiz-Gonzalez has particular interest and expertise in neurogenetic disorders affecting underserved populations, such as children of Puerto Rican ancestry. We also have projects where we examine cellular mechanisms in human IPSC neuronal models of monogenic causes of pediatric neurodegeneration.
Interested students should contact us to discuss current projects and availability.
Preferred Qualifications
basic bench laboratory experience preferred, particularly tissue culture and/or microscopy
Details:
Preferred Student Year
First-year, Second-Year, Junior, Senior
Academic Term
Summer
I prefer to have students start during the above term(s).Volunteer
Yes
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.