Regulation of BMP signaling in neural crest derivatives
Megan Martik, Professor
Molecular and Cell Biology
Closed. This professor is continuing with Fall 2024 apprentices on this project; no new apprentices needed for Spring 2025.
Neural crest is an embryonic stem cell population that originates in the neural tube and migrates into the developing organs such as the heart and gut to form diverse cell types, including neurons and muscle cells. BMP signaling plays an important role in their terminal differentiation, yet how BMP target genes are intrinsically regulated is not fully understood. Using mouse embryos, we are currently looking at the role of the BMP antagonist, Noggin, in regulating neural crest cell fate.
Role: Using in vivo animal models (chicken and mouse embryos), we will identify mechanisms by which BMP signaling genes are regulated in neural crest cells. Students will get hands on experience with embryology, histology, image processing, and data analysis. Any prior experience with mouse animal husbandry is a plus although not required. This project is well-suited for students who are interested in going to medical/graduate school given that based on how motivated the student feels, they will have the opportunity to lead their own research project. However, if the student wants to contribute to ongoing research, that is also possible.
Students will interact directly with their mentor, Dr. Shashank Gandhi, for day-to-day tasks and will meet with Dr. Martik weekly to discuss research progress.
Qualifications: Students are not expected to have prior research experience, although fine motor skills would definitely be helpful to have. An interest in developmental biology will also be appreciated.
Day-to-day supervisor for this project: Shashank Gandhi, Post-Doc
Hours: 12 or more hours
Related website: www.martiklab.org
Biological & Health Sciences