The Aroian Group is actively recruiting graduate students to: 1. use microbiology and genetics to develop new methods for delivery of protein therapies (anthelmintics) to the GI tract 2. discovery and mechanism of action studies of new anthelmintics to control soil-transmitted helminths 3. study how vertebrate hosts and their immune system interact with intestinal nematodes, with the particular goal of controlling autoimmune disease 4. study innate immune mechanisms that protect animals against pore-forming toxin attack
We are looking for postdoc candidates with experience in cancer biology, mouse models and genome-engineering. Please email CV and 3 letters of recommendation to Wen.Xue@umassmed.edu.
Our lab uses CRISPR tools to speed up cancer gene discovery and disease gene repair. Rotation projects are available to explore experimental techniques such as molecular cloning of CRISPR plasmids, measuring genome-editing efficiency, dissecting mice, and processing of mouse tumor/tissue for histology.
Endowed Chair in Biochemistry and Molecular Biotechnology I
Veterinary & Animal Sciences; Pioneer Valley Life
Blais University Chair in Molecular Medicine
Potential Rotation Projects: There are numerous potential rotation project available in the Mello lab: Projects include: Investigation of RNAi and related mechanisms, including Piwi Argonaute pathways and their affects on fertility and epigenetic inheritance; Investigation of germline determination and cell-fate specification during embryogenesis; the exploration of CRISPR mediated genome editing tools for C. elegans and other organisms; and finally the use of CRISPR to generate C. elegans models for human genetic disease.
A postdoctoral position is available to study in this laboratory. Contact Dr.Francis for additional details.
<p >Potential Rotation Projects <p >The Francis lab studies the regulation of post-synaptic neurotransmitter receptors and how alterations in synaptic transmission lead to changes in behavior. We combine patch-clamp electrophysiology with the powerful genetic techniques available in C. elegans. <p >A variety of potential rotation projects centered around the exploration of synaptic function, mechanisms for receptor localization and analysis of C. elegans movement are available. Students can expect to have access to training in a broad range of techniques including forward and reverse genetic strategies, molecular biology, fluorescent microscopy and electrophysiology. As projects are always evolving, I encourage students to contact the lab directly to discuss your specific interests.
Endowed Chair in Biochemistry and Molecular Biotechnology II
For more information about the Postdoctoral position in Dr. Rando’s lab please use the link provided. Post doc position
Rotation projects are available to study chromatin structure and function. Project 1. Measure histone dynamics in yeast. Histone dynamics play major roles in chromatin metabolism and in the inheritance of chromatin states. To measure histone replacement rates in yeast, we have created yeast strains carrying inducible epitope-tagged histones H3 and H2A. Using microarrays, we will measure histone replacement rates in a variety of mutant yeast to ascertain the role of various chromatin remodeling factors in histone exchange reactions. Project 2. Characterize mechanisms for epigenetic inheritance in yeast. We have identified a variety of genes whose expression state in yeast is epigenetically heritable. We will screen the yeast genome for genes that affect the inheritance of these expression patterns. Project 3. Measure histone dynamics in embryonic stem cells. Embryonic stem cells are pluripotent cells that can give rise to every type of cell in the adult animal. The role of chromatin structure in maintaining this pluripotent state is poorly understood, but it appears that stem cell chromatin is exceptionally labile relative to that in differentiated cells. We will create stem cell lines with inducible tagged histones to measure histone replacement rates across the mouse genome.
<p >Our laboratory combines biochemical, biophysical, molecular and cell biological approaches to investigate various aspects of pre-mRNA processing, mRNA metabolism and RNA quality control in eukaryotic cells. Potential rotation projects are available in all areas of the laboratory's interests (see Research section).
The project aims to develop computational algorithms and software programs for analyzing high-throughput sequence data such as ChIP-Seq RNA-Seq small RNA sequencing data. PhD required. A strong background in computational biology especially experience with analyzing high-throughput sequencing data is highly desirable. Excellent communication and writing skills and the ability to work with experimental and computational collaborators are essential. To apply please forward CV cover letter and three references to: Zhiping.Weng@umassmed.edu
Please contact Dr. Weng for information on rotations that are available in her lab.
Rotations <p >Project 1: Genetic screens for proteins that modify or regulate the activity of microRNAs in C. elegans.
Postdoctoral positions are available for this lab. Please contact Junhao Mao directly, 508-856-4149 or via email, Junhao.Mao@umassmed.edu
Governor Paul Cellucci Chair in Neuroscience Research
Project 1: Dervelop RNA-based therapies for frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and related disroders. Project 2: Study pathogenic mechanisms of FTD and related disorders in mouse models.
Our lab uses a combination of molecular, cellular, genetic, and behavioral approaches to further dissect the pathogenic mechanisms of Frontotemporal Dementia and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis with a focus on mutant CHMP2B, progranulin and C9ORF72. We will identify common underlying pathways as potential targets for therapeutic interventions.
Rotation projects We apply X-ray crystallography and biochemical methods to understand the mechanisms employed by the ribosome. Potential rotation projects are 1) to understand various aspects of translation via mutagenesis/biochemical assays, 2) to crystallize and work on determining the structures of translation factors and functional ribosome complexes, and 3) to improve computational methods used to determine crystal structures of macromolecules. Feel free to contact the lab for a more detailed discussion.
Worcester Foundation for Biomedical Research Chair III
Please email Kate.Fitzgerald@umassmed.edu if you are interested in rotations.
A postdoctoral position is available to study in this laboratory. Contact Dr. Theurkauf for additional details.
Rotation Projects Proper control of cell division and accurate chromosome segregation are fundamental to cell function and normal development. Chromosome segregation errors lead to birth defects, and abnormal cell division control is associated with essentially all cancers. A major aim of research in the laboratory is to understand cell cycle control and chromosome segregation mechanisms. We use a combination of classical and molecular genetics, high-resolution in vivo imaging, and biochemical techniques to define pathways that control the cell cycle and chromosome segregation in response to environmental insult (DNA damaging agents) and developmental queues. Rotation projects focus on the role of cell cycle checkpoint and tumor suppressor pathways during the earliest stages of embryogenesis, and cell cycle control of actin and microtubule reorganization during mitosis. Through these projects, students gain exposure of the art in vivo imaging and genetic and molecular manipulations of gene function to define pathways controlling cell division and chromosome segregation. Embryonic Patterning Essentially all cells are asymmetric, with structurally distinct surfaces and polarized internal organization. This asymmetry is essential to the specialized functions cells serve within complex multi-cellular organisms . A second area of interest focuses on the mechanisms that establish cellular asymmetry. In Drosophila, the embryonic axes are specified during oogenesis through the asymmetric localization of key morphogenetic molecules within the developing oocyte. We use axis specification in the fly as a model for the processes that establish cellular asymmetry. An intact microtubule network is essential to axis specification in the fly oocyte and to polarization of somatic. We hope to define the molecular functions for microtubules in establishing cellular asymmetry. We are currently using in vivo imaging techniques to directly characterize the microtubule dependent mRNA transport processes that differentiate the anterior and posterior poles of the developing oocyte. In addition, classical genetic and biochemical techniques are used to identify the microtubule motors and associated proteins that mediate mRNA movements to the oocyte poles.
Project 1 Investigate the lethal expression of P35 in dam lysogens. Plus inducer No inducer Lysogenic cultures of p35/dam (top) and p35/wildtype (bottom) were diluted and aliquots spotted on media with and without inducer.
Determine links between SREBPs, SAMe levels and epigenetic regulation Methylation of histones or DNA affects gene expression at local as well as global levels. The major cellular methyl donor, s-adenosylmethionine (SAMe) is produced by the folate or 1-carbon (1C) cycle. 1CC function may be affected by dietary levels of folate, methionine, choline or betaine, genetic polymorphisms, or alcohol intake, linking potential for epigenetic modification in cancer progression to food intake and metabolism. Physiological limitation of 1CC function has multiple deleterious physiological effects from birth defects to the development of hepatosteatosis and has also been linked to hepatic and colon cancer. While many studies have shown that the availability of methyl donors may dramatically affect human disease, the mechanisms governing SAMe production and epigenetic modification are much less clear. We hypothesize that modulation of SBP-1 function affecting sams-1 expression will also alter methyl group levels and subsequently, histone modification, leading to changes in gene expression relevant to overall nutritional homeostasis. We will determine if modulation of SAMe levels through SBP-1 effects histone methylation at nutritionally important promoters and examine how diet quality and dietary supplementation affect SBP-1 activity by evaluating histone methylation, in addition to employing biological assays for epigenetic changes in gene expression. We will also use unbiased assays such as ChIP-Seq to identify genes whose expression levels are linked to epigenetic changes after sbp-1 RNAi, selecting those with roles in metabolism for further study. These studies will provide a basis for understanding how lipid homeostasis and other dietary influences affect SAMe production and how those are linked to increased lipid accumulation in C. elegans. Future studies will extend these models to mammalian systems to investigate how these changes predispose hepatosteatosis, a component of metabolic syndrome in humans.
Determine mechanisms for differential regulation of SREBP-1 and SREBP-2 by PC-based feedback In recent studies, we have found that inactive precursors for SREBP-1 are cleaved, accumulate in the nucleus and activate lipogenic transcription programs when membrane changes linked to low PC levels alter localization of SREBP-activating proteases (see Research Interests). We also found that SREBP-2 was resistant to this regulation (Figure 1), and note that while mouse models of PC depletion are associated with hepatic steatosis, cholesterol levels are not necessarily affected (Jacobs, et al. 2008, JBC). We will determine the mechanisms of this differential regulation which will be important for understanding how lipid or cholesterol synthesis may be inappropriately stimulated in metabolic disease. Figure 1: Depletion of PC biosynthesis enzymes in HepG2 human hepatoma cells causes nuclear localization of SREBP-1, but not SREBP-2. Yellow line shows cell boundary
Identify cellular responses to decreased SAMe production Our studies in C. elegans showed that SREBP transcriptional activators could control expression 1CC genes. These studies are important because they demonstrate that levels of these critical enzymes mRNAa are not controlled as a “housekeeping function” but are instead are coordinated with other cellular processes. We have developed two models for 1CC dysfunction in C. elegans, a genetic model based on loss of function (lof) of sams-1, a SBP-1/SREBP responsive gene encoding the enzyme for producing the methyl donor SAMe and a dietary model in which C. elegans are fed bacteria unable to synthesize folate. In both of these models, transcription of lipogenic genes are highly increased and sams-1(lof) worms accumulate large lipid droplets, mimicking aspects of fatty liver disease in mammals. These models will allow use genetic screens as a tool for identifying 1) other regulatory pathways affecting SAMe production or utilization and 2) cellular responses that limit lipogenesis when methyl donor levels are low.
H. Arthur Smith Chair in Cancer Research
Rotation Projects Laboratory rotations are available to study signal mammalian transduction mechanisms. Several projects are available, including studies of protein kinase cascades, gene expression, the cell cycle, and apoptosis. Targeted gene disruption approaches in mice combined with biochemical and molecular biology studies will be examined.
If you are interesting in applying computational methods to biological problems please contact me. Potential projects in my lab are Modeling of transcription factor gene expression control in innate immune cells Evolutionary analysis of gene transcription factor networks in mammals Epigenetics inheritance in mice: From male sperm to phenotypic effect in grandchildren Application of genome and exome sequencing to newborn screening Development of computational methods for analysis of RNA-protein interactions
Gerald L. Haidak, MD, and Zelda S. Haidak Professor in Cell Biology
Rotation Projects <p >Rotation projects generally address specific gene expression issues in yeast, including problems in NMD, general mRNA decay, and translation termination. Methodological approaches depend on time commitment, but could include yeast genetics, individual and genome-wide transcript analysis, in vitro translation, and protein:protein interaction studies.
Focus: Cytoplasmic aspects of post-transcriptional regulation in eukaryotes
Remondi Family Chair in Biomedical Research
POSTDOCTORAL POSITION: RNAI PRECLINICAL DEVELOPMENT Excellent training opportunity for a person considering industrial carrier in drug development Oligonucleotides represent a new class of drugs, which have the promise to become a major class of future therapeutics. There are several classes of oligonucleotides which can efficiently silence genes in various tissues with acceptable level of toxicity. There are also new chemistries being developed to further improve oligonucleotide tissue distribution and cellular uptake. The successful candidate will be a key part of an intra-disciplinary team working with biologists and chemists to develop novel types of therapeutics for treatment of neurological disease, liver disease and orphan indications. The work will include compounds identification, screening, characterization, in vivo efficacy and PK/PD studies, novel assays development etc. In addition exposure and training in nucleic acid pre-clinical development, project management etc will be provided. QUALIFICATIONS: Applicants must have (or expect to obtain shortly) a Ph.D. in Chemistry, Organic Chemistry Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology or a related field , be bright, ambitious, independent and collaborative and ideally, have research experience in nucleic acid molecular cell biology or pharmacology.
RNAI MEDICINAL CHEMISTRY/ RNA OLIGONUCLEOTIDE CHEMISTRY Develop and characterize novel RNA chemistries to promote efficient oligonucleotide internalization and tissue distribution. Oligonucleotides represent a new class of drugs, which have the promise to become a major class of future therapeutics. There are several chemistries and formulations developed by us and others that effectively support oligo internalization and favorable PK/PD. In most cases in vivo efficacy is limited by (1) poor PK (2) inefficient tissue distribution (3) compound entrapment in biologically inactive intracellular compartments. The objective of future studies will be development of novel chemistries, which promote receptor mediated cellular internalization and/ or endosomal escape. The successful candidate will be responsible for the design and synthesis of novel RNA precursors, optimization of RNA synthesis and conjugation protocols and interface with the biology part of the lab. In addition, exposure to pre-clinical development programs and oligonucleotide manufacturing will be available. QUALIFICATIONS: Applicants must have (or expect to obtain shortly) a Ph.D. in Chemistry, Organic Chemistry Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology or a related field , be bright, ambitious, independent and collaborative and have previous experience in nucleic acid / oligonucleotide chemistry.
SMALL RNA TRAFFICKING Discover, characterize and adapt mechanisms of small RNA extracellular and intracellular trafficking for development of novel classes of oligonucleotide drugs. A serious limitation in realizing the potential of oligonucleotide based therapies has been the exceedingly inefficient transit of oligonucleotides from outside cells to the intracellular compartments where the biologically relevant activity happens. On the other hand, there are multiple lines of evidence supporting the notion that nature has implemented evolutionarily conserved mechanisms and pathways for efficiently trafficking small RNAs across cellular boundaries. The objective of future studies will be the systematic evaluation of mechanisms of cellular uptake of different classes of oligonucleotides and their comparison to mechanisms of native RNA trafficking using a combination of experimental approaches, including advanced RNA chemistry and high temporal and spatial resolution microscopy in living cells, Mass spectrometry, cell biology and others. The successful candidate will work closely with Victor Ambros and Silvia Corvera labs and the UMASS imaging group and receive training in RNA chemistry, biochemistry, cell biology and pre-clinical development. QUALIFICATIONS:Applicants must have (or expect to obtain shortly) a Ph.D. in Chemistry, Organic Chemistry Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology or a related field , be bright, ambitious, independent and collaborative and ideally, have research experience in nucleic acid molecular and cell biology
Our laboratory uses a combination of nucleic acid and oligonucleotide chemistry, biochemistry, cell biology, and pharmacology and develops and evaluate novel technologies for development of oligonucleotide therapeutics. A rotation project is available to develop and identify chemically modified self-delivering RNAi compounds for treatment of Huntington and other diseases.
Immediate opening! Two postdoctoral positions are available immediately to study cellular andmolecular mechanisms resulting in immunosuppression after alcohol use. Thefocus of this research is the role of monocytes and dendritic cells indecreased antigen-specific T cell activation after alcohol use.Intracellular signalling mechanisms resulting in decreased NF-kBactivation and inflammatory cytokine induction after acute alcoholconsumption are being investigated. Please contact Dr. Szabo for details.
Background for Student Rotation Projects <p >See Politz, Hogan and Pederson (2009) and Politz et al. (2005) in the above list. The novel microRNA work may be the most suitable for student rotations. Potential Rotation Projects <p >Are the nucleolar microRNAs pri-, pre- or mature? <p >Are they complexed with other nucleolar RNAs? <p >Do the cell cycle related proteins in the nucleolus exist as heterotypic complexes? <p >Does the nucleolus of human embryonic stem cells also share these features (which we have so far looked for, and found, only in transformed human cell lines)? <p >Can vanadium tagging be used to detect specific proteins by electron microscopy, perhaps exceeding the limitations of immuno-EM?
Leo P. and Theresa M. LaChance Chair in Medical Research
Lawrence lab research bridges fundamental questions of developmental epigenetics with translational research into the common problem of chromosome abnormalities, particularly Down syndrome.
Gretchen Stone Cook Chair in Biomedical Sciences
A postdoctoral position is available to study in this laboratory. Contact Dr. Zamore for additional details
Potential Rotation Projects Our laboratory uses a combination of biochemistry, cell biology, and genetics to dissect the RNAi pathway. A rotation project is available to explore the mechanisms that underlie the RNAi phenomenon or the biological pathways in which RNAi enzymes participate in flies, mice and humans.
POSTDOCTORAL POSITION A Postdoctoral Position is available immediately in the Department of Cell and Developmental Biology to study the regulation of RNA processing and export by signal transduction pathways. So far in this project we have found that the assembly of mRNA export complexes in live cells is regulated by the PI3 kinase/AKT signal transduction pathway and that, for a subset of mRNAs, nuclear export is AKT regulated. The experimental approach for this project integrates molecular techniques and microscopy, especially live cell microscopy. The postdoc in this position could also be involved in studies of the role of nuclear architecture in regulating gene expression and in studying the role of chromatin remodeling enzymes in breast cancer. Candidates with a strong background in cell biology, biochemistry, or molecular biology are especially desirable. Quaresma, A.J., Sievert, R. & Nickerson, J.A. Regulation of mRNA export by the PI3 kinase/AKT signal transduction pathway. Mol Biol Cell 24, 1208-1221 (2013). The University of Massachusetts Medical School is located in Worcester, at the western edge of the Boston Metropolitan Area. The Department of Cell and Developmental Biology has especially strong research programs in nuclear and chromatin structure, cytoskeletal function, and mitotic architecture. Interested candidates should contact: Jeffrey A. Nickerson, Ph.D. Department of Cell and Developmental Biology S7-214 University of Massachusetts Medical School 55 Lake Avenue North Worcester, MA 01655 (508) 856-2312 jeffrey.nickerson@umassmed.edu
Potential Rotation Projects Identify the AKT phosphorylation sites on mRNA export proteins. Determine the effect that point mutation of those sites has on mRNA export complex assembly and on the export of specific mRNAs. Investigate the role of chromatin remodeling in driving the important metabolic changes occurring during breast tumorigenesis.
Higgins Family Professor in Neuroscience
Potential Rotation Projects Project #1: Molecular Mechanisms in the Pathogenesis of Neurodegenerative Disease. The student can select projects emphasizing either molecular mechanisms of huntingtin in trafficking in neurons or receptor stimulated effects on gene expression in neurons. Techniques include: Generation of fusion proteins, raising antisera Preparation of organelles Immunocytochemistry, light microscopy and electron microscopy Immunoprecipitation methods PCR Protein separation techniques, gel electrophoresis, immunoblotting Autoradiography
Please contact Dr. Imbalzano to discuss the possibility of a postdoctoral training.See lab research interests and publications for recent topics of research. http://www.umassmed.edu/imbalzanolab/ http://www.umassmed.edu/imbalzanolab/publications/
Please contact Dr. Imbalzano to discuss the possibility of a rotation project. Rotation projects are generally based on current work and tailored to the interests of the student. See lab research interests and publications for recent topics. http://www.umassmed.edu/imbalzanolab/ http://www.umassmed.edu/imbalzanolab/publications/
Arthur F. Koskinas Chair in Neuroscience
Many rotation projects are available so please inquire.
A postdoctoral position is available to study in this laboratory. Contact Dr. Ip for additional details.
Rotation Projects Project #1: Mechanistic study of isolated mutants that show abnormal intestinal stem cell division phenotypes. Project #2:Perform transgenic RNAi-based genetic screen for genes required for intestinal stem cell response to tissue damage.
Graduate students are encouraged to contact Heidi Tissenbaum to discuss projects available for rotations. Each student has a project tailored for both their abilities and class time commitments.
Maroun Semaan Chair in Biomedical Research
A postdoctoral position is available to study in this laboratory. Please contact Dr. Walhout for additional details.
Joseph J. Byrne Chair in Biomedical Research
? Rotation Projects Multiple rotation projects are available in several areas related to long-range gene regulation and higher order chromosome organization. Projects include thorough analyses of the biochemical mechanisms of long-range gene regulation of specific disease-related genes, as well as large-scale analyses of chromosome organization using high-throughput genomics technologies (5C and Hi-C). The lab employs a wide range of experimental approaches, including cell culture, protein biochemistry, microscopy, genomics as well computational approaches such as bioinformatics and modeling. Specific rotation projects are determined dependent on the interest of the student.
A post-doctoral position is available immediately to study the role of genes found in a genome-wide RNAi screen to regulate the cellular response to the chemotherapy agent, cisplatin. The goal is to determine whether these genes function as tumor suppressor and/or regulate the mechanism of DNA repair processing. The laboratory is interested in understanding the role of hereditary cancer genes of the BRCA-Fanconi anemia pathway in DNA damage repair and tumor suppression. We seek motivated candidates with a PhD and background in cancer cell biology. Experience in mouse cancer models is desirable. The exceptional training environment within the Department of Cancer Biology at UMASS Medical School offers a rigorous and interactive research environment covering several aspects of tumor biology. Applicants should have excellent communication skills, and ability to conduct research independently and as a team. To apply, please send your CV with bibliography, a brief description of research experience and contact information for at least two references via email.
The laboratory is interested in a range of DNA replication/repair-related topics including (i) Defining biomarkers of “BRCAness” that signifies deficiency in the hereditary breast/ovarian cancer genes, BRCA1 or BRCA2, (ii) Targeting BRCAness as a replication gap vulnerability, (iii) Defining why replication proficiency requires the FANCJ helicase disengage mismatch repair proteins, (iv) Determining if suppressing gaps improves the health of Fanconi anemia patient cells, (v) Hunting down the cancer vulnerability that defines curability, (vi) performing functional genomic screens to uncover mechanisms regulating chemotherapy resistance.
<p >Rotation Projects <p >Rotation projects are designed to expose students to the molecular cell biology of solid tumors and to provide them with an appreciation for translational cancer research. Specific rotation projects, which are focused on the major themes of the lab, include: <p >Function and Regulation of Integrins (Cell Adhesion Receptors) in Cancer Epigenetic mechanisms that regulate integrin gene expression in human cancers Regulation of integrin expression and function during the EMT Role of specfic microRNAs (miRs) in regulating integrin function and signaling Contribution of integrins to carcinoma progression using mouse models of breast carcinoma <p >Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) Signaling, EMT and Carcinoma Progression Function and expression of VEGF receptors in carcinoma cells Regulation of VEGF transcription in response to EMT stimuli Role of miRs in regulating VEGF receptors and signaling Contribution of VEGF signaling to the behavior of aggressive, de-differentiated carcinomas <p >Nuclear Hormone Receptors and EMT Role of estrogen receptors in regulating the EMT Regulation of VEGF transcription by estrogen receptors
A postdoctoral position is available to study in this laboratory. Contact Dr. Mark Alkema for additional details. Contact Information: Mark Alkema, Ph.D. University of Massachusetts Medical School Department of Neurobiology, LRB 717 364 Plantation Street Worcester, MA 01605 USA phone: 508-856-6158 (office) phone: 508-856-8541 (lab) e-mail: mark.alkema@umassmed.edu
Rotation Projects 1) Molecular and neuronal characterization of C. elegans escape behavior Defining sensorimotor circuits requires detailed knowledge of the neural connectivity of the nervous system, and the ability to manipulate the functions of the component neurons and to define and quantify the behavioral outputs. The simplicity and completely defined synaptic connectivity of C. elegans nervous system provides unique opportunity to dissect how neural networks control behavior. 2) Identify genes involved in the processing, expression and subunit composition of voltage-gated calcium channels The release of neurotransmitter from synaptic vesicles is critical for the propagation of signals that generate behavioral outputs. Voltage-gated calcium channels provide the calcium influx essential for synaptic vesicle exocytosis. We are characterizing mutants to identify new genes involved in the proper assembly, expression and trafficking of functional calcium channels. 3) Investigate the evolutionary origins of escape behavior Nematophagous fungi employ a variety of strategies to capture worms. In predator-prey experiments, we have been able to show that the suppression of head movements allows the animal to escape from constricting traps. Further investigation of the neurobiology behind the escape from predation may provide insight into how this behavior evolves. Contact Information: Mark Alkema, Ph.D. University of Massachusetts Medical School Department of Neurobiology, LRB 717 364 Plantation Street Worcester, MA 01605 USA phone: 508-856-6158 (office) phone: 508-856-8541 (lab) e-mail: mark.alkema@umassmed.edu
Potential Rotation Projects A variety of rotation projects are available to study RNP assembly and post-transcriptional regulation during development using quantitative biochemical and modern molecular methods. Project 1: Characterization of the RNA-protein complexes that guide C. elegans early development. Several projects ranging in scope from biochemical characterization of RNA-binding protein complexes to genetic dissection of RNA binding protein function in development are currently available. Contact Sean for more details. Project 2: Post-transcriptional regulation of oligodendrocyte differentiation. Projects are available to monitor changes in gene expression as a function of differentiation with a focus on changes in alternative splicing and mRNA stability. Contact Sean for more details.
Pathogen genetics of the host immune response
How the cholinergic nervous system communicates peroxisomal stress to the whole organism during bacteria infection
Role and regulation of novel innate immune effectors that are conserved across animalia
Focus: Microbiota-gut-brain axis in C. elegans; mucosal innate immunity; staphylococcus aureus; transcriptional regulation of host defense; autophagy; lysosomes; peroxisomes
A postdoctoral position is available to study in this laboratory. Contact Dr. Pai for additional details.
Biochemistry and Molecular Biotechnology
The Yemini Lab investigates how nervous systems change during development and evolution to generate new behaviors. We use cutting-edge tools and a multiscale systems-biology approach to study the genes, circuitry, and neural activity driving behavioral changes. Our findings provide a foundation to understand normal brain development and brain disorders (e.g., autism and intellectual disabilities).
Mary C. DeFeudis Chair in Biomedical Research
In Living Color: Whole-Nervous-System Cell IDs
Eleanor Eustis Farrington Chair in Cancer Research