Project Description
The purpose of this project is to learn how to create 3D reconstructions of neurons, analyze their dendritic properties and investigate morphological differences as a result of experience (e.g., learning, aging, ischemia). My lab uses whole-cell recordings to investigate experience-dependent neurophysiological changes. In the process of these recordings, neurons are filled with biocytin to study neuronal morphology.
Tasks and Responsibilites
The student will learn about all aspects of the research. This includes learning how to process tissue, carry out fluorescence and confocal microscopy, and use our Neurolucida system for creating 3-dimensional neuronal reconstructions. Exposure to graduate level research projects like this will allow the student to develop an understanding for research procedures, such as the planning and carrying out of research, data collection and interpretation, and ultimately writing up results in the form of a poster or even a manuscript for publication. Additional skills to be learned include reading and writing in a scientific format, working as part of a research team to achieve goals, and time management (there is no substitute for spending time in the lab, so time management is an important skill students learn). Acquisition of these concepts will make the student stronger academically and will provide the experience necessary for continued growth and competitiveness for advanced studies in any scientific discipline.
Desired Qualifications
None Listed.