Drosophila (fruit fly) models for studying tumor-host interactions and cancer biology
David Bilder, Professor
Molecular and Cell Biology
Closed. This professor is continuing with Spring 2024 apprentices on this project; no new apprentices needed for Fall 2024.
Malignant tumors are distinct from benign growths in their ability to hijack and disrupt various processes in the body. Some common examples that most people are familiar with are tumor invasion of adjacent tissues, recruitment vasculature to accelerate growth, and dissemination of metastasizing cells. However, a less well-appreciated fact is that tumors can secrete signaling molecules that circulate and change the behavior of healthy cells at a distance. These so-called “paraneoplastic effects” contribute significantly to patient quality of life and survival, yet they are poorly understood. We study these effects as well as other tumor-host interactions using Drosophila melanogaster, the humble fruit fly. This project is centered on developing a novel tumor model in Drosophila. You may also be asked to assist on other ongoing projects examining tumor-host interactions in our ovarian tumor model.
Role: Skills that you will learn include handling of laboratory fruit flies, advanced genetic approaches, dissection, fluorescent microscopy and image analysis. Additionally, trainees will be mentored in how to critically read journal articles, design experiments, and communicate their science. After training in essential skills, there may be opportunities to expand into other techniques and skills as is conducive to your interests and career goals.
Qualifications: - The Bilder lab is committed to improving diversity, equity and inclusion in science. Students from underrepresented backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.
- Sophomore applicants are preferred, but freshmen or juniors with strong qualifications will also be considered.
- Prior research experience is strongly preferred. Students who are looking for their first research experience should demonstrate capacity to learn laboratory techniques in their application (e.g. completion of a laboratory class, strong grades in STEM courses, etc.)
- Interest in, and ideally background with, mendelian genetics
- An ideal candidate is detail-oriented, highly motivated, passionate about scientific discovery, and has a clear vision for how a URAP experience will aid them in their career goals.
- Candidates who plan to pursue an honors research thesis project will be prioritized.
Day-to-day supervisor for this project: Dr. Katy Ong, Post-Doc
Hours: 9-11 hrs
Related website: https://bilderlab.berkeley.edu
Related website: https://mcb.berkeley.edu/faculty/CDB/bilderd.html