Building molecular tools to image single transcription factors in live cells.
Robert Tjian, Professor
Molecular and Cell Biology
Applications for Fall 2024 are closed for this project.
Regulation of DNA transcription is one of the mechanisms at the core of cellular identity establishment and maintenance. Our lab is interested in studying the nuclear dynamics of the proteins that operate such regulation, transcription factors (TFs). To this aim we typically fuse a TF of interest with either Halo- or SNAPf-tags, self-labeling enzymes that can covalently bind to cell-permeable ligands conjugated to bright and photostable fluorophores (JaneliaFluor dyes). We then use super-resolution microscopy to track single TF molecules in live cells in real time. The student will assist a staff scientist in the lab to design and clone lentiviral vectors to express TFs fused to either a Halo- or a SNAPf-tag, as well as control constructs.
Role: The URAP student will assist a staff scientist in the lab to 1) Design lentiviral constructs using the SnapGene cloning software; 2) Clone and verify the constructs using standard molecular cloning techniques (PCR, gel extraction, DNA purification, restriction digestion, Gibson assembly, DNA transformation, etc.); 3) Package lentiviral vectors containing the constructs, and 4) Test lentiviral infection by imaging. The student will also 1) Document all their work in a lab journal shared with their mentor, and 2) Compile monthly reports to describe main project goals for the month, failures and successes. The student will ideally be involved in lab activities (attend weekly lab group meetings, journal clubs, optics clubs), compatible with their class schedule.
Qualifications: Ideally, the student will have a basic understanding of molecular and cell biology and previous experience with cell culture and basic molecular biology techniques. Experience with lentiviral vector preparation is a plus. We value students who are collaborative, organized, committed, and motivated to learn new skills and intellectually contribute toward cutting-edge research projects related to gene regulation. The student will need to understand that research takes its time and joining a lab is a serious commitment. This position is designed for undergraduates of all experience levels with opportunity for increased independence based on levels of experience and commitment. Preference may be given to an undergraduate who will remain in the lab for more than one semester.
Day-to-day supervisor for this project: Claudia Cattoglio, Staff Researcher
Hours: 12 or more hours
Related website: https://www.tjian-darzacq.mcb.berkeley.edu/