Apply By
September 10, 2021
Posting Number
1947
Research Group
Developmental epigenetics and the environment lab
Location
Centennial Campus
Mentor Name
Dr Michael Cowley
Number of Positions Available
1
Description
The goals of the Cowley Lab are to understand how the developmental environment impacts the epigenetic regulation of the genome, and to understand the functional consequences of this for development and metabolic health. Our work sits at the interface of genetics, developmental biology and environmental health science. In order to understand this relationship, we have several ongoing projects in our lab, involving both animal and cell models. We utilize a diverse set of lab techniques in these projects, including (but not limited to): PCR, qRT-PCR, cloning, gel electrophoresis, cell culture, lentiviral transduction, western blotting, histology, RNA-seq, pyrosequencing, and whole genome bisulfite sequencing. We are looking for an Undergraduate Research Assistant to join our dynamic and enthusiastic research team. The student will have the opportunity to be directly involved in research projects and to facilitate the general day-to-day running of the lab. We will provide extensive training in laboratory techniques, animal handling, and science communication skills. We see this as a potential long-term position, as previous students in the lab have worked with us for 1-2 years before graduating. Many of our student alumni are now in prestigious graduate programs!
The Research Assistant will focus on one particular project in the lab. Previously, we have shown that a regulatory network of imprinted genes (genes that are expressed from only one parental allele) become activated in the liver in response to maternal cadmium (Cd) exposure. Cd is a toxic, heavy metal found ubiquitously in the environment that the World Health Organization (WHO) denotes as one of the top ten chemicals of major public health concern. In the current project, we will investigate how maternal Cd exposure disrupts imprinted genes to program a liver condition called nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Specifically, we will utilize a genetically modified mouse model in which the imprinted gene H19 (encoding a long noncoding RNA) has been excised or “knocked out.” This project will help us to better understand the role of H19 in the programming and pathogenesis of NAFLD via the imprinted gene network.
Hiring Criteria: We are looking for a mature and motivated individual interested in laboratory science, who enjoys the lab environment, wants to pursue graduate education, and has a passion for learning. The work schedule is approximately twenty hours per week, and the ideal candidate will be able to attend the lab multiple days during the week. This will be a paid training position through the Provost’s Professional Experience Program.
Find out more about what we do at www.cowleylab.org
Required Prerequisites
N/A
Preferred Prerequisites
Basic lab skills
Preferred Academic Year
Freshman; Sophomore; Junior
Anticipated Start Date
Fall 2021
Duration of Position
To be determined
Approximate Hours per Week
20
Salary or Stipend
To be determined