Faculty Mentor: Melodie Weller
Title: Assistant Professor
College: Dentistry
Email: Melodie.Weller@hsc.utah.edu
Project description
The Weller Lab is looking for highly motivated students interested in virology, autoimmune diseases and working as part of a research team to define the mechanisms of viral-mediated chronic disease. Our research focuses on pathogen exposures leading to the development of a chronic autoimmune disease called Sjögren’s syndrome. Projects in the lab utilize viral-genome sequencing, bioinformatics, cell culture, and infectious disease epidemiology techniques to define the underlying mechanism(s) of autoimmunity.
Student Role: Student will assist in DNA/RNA isolation, tissue processing, immunohistochemistry, immunoassays, cell culture, literature review and will take part in weekly group meetings.
Project Duration: 10-15+ hours/week. Projects will run a minimum of one semester with the possibility of extension.
Opportunity Type: Volunteer; Prepare a UROP proposal; Write an Honors Thesis; Earn independent study credit
Is this a paid opportunity: No
Minimum Requirements: Completion of basic science courses, preferably junior or senior status.