Undergraduate Research Opportunities
We consider undergraduate researchers to be key contributors to the
research progress of this laboratory. Undergraduates participate in
most aspects of the experiments, including behavioral measures,
histological procedures, and quantification of brain
changes. Particularly motivated students may choose to take on an
independent research project after a sufficient intitial training
period. Many of our undergraduates have received authorship on papers
and/or honors for their research in this laboratory. This is an
excellent laboratory for undergraduates seeking pre-graduate school
research experience.
Description: The goal of this
research is to understand basic mechanisms of neural plasticity and to
identify processes which may be manipulated to enhance functional
outcome after brain damage. This includes studies of how behavioral
experiences of an animal (rat) influence post-injury neural and glial
adaptation to damage. Related research pursues learning-related
plasticity in intact rats
Qualifications: Motivated,
inquisitive students that desire exposure to the workings of a friendly
but typically intense basic research laboratory group. Students should
have the intention of enrolling for at least 2 semesters of work in the
laboratory and must sign up for research credit hours (e.g., PSY 357)
while working in the lab during fall and spring semesters. (Signing up
during the summer is optional.) Coursework in behavioral neuroscience
and biology is very helpful but not required. This laboratory is
especially appropriate for pre- graduate school and pre- medical school
research experience, but all interested and motivated students are
encouraged to apply.
Duties: Undergraduate assistants
participate in nearly all aspects of the experiments. This includes
handling and behavioral measures in rats, histological and surgical
procedures, and quantification of brain changes. Students will also
read research papers and attend group meetings. Hours vary, but 10-12
hours of work per week are expected.
Download
an application (MS word file)
Contact: Nikki Donlan
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