STEMspire is excited to offer the following research opportunities for Summer 2025:
Jennifer Avena - Biological Sciences & Mathematical Sciences
Research Description: This project will be part of a larger biology education project in which we integrate
applied computing, specifically Python programming, into introductory biology courses.
In this summer project, the main focus would be on analyzing student survey data from
the start and end of the semester, in which students share their perceptions and experiences
with applied computing in the biology classroom. We will conduct both quantitative
(i.e., statistics) and qualitative (characterizing student open-ended responses) analysis
to inform us of student experiences. Based on these, we may also consider curriculum
design for future semesters. (Note: Students are not required to have expertise in
computer science for this project.) A Day in the Lab: Daily, most of the work would be conducted on a computer working in excel and potentially
statistical and/or qualitative analysis software. The majority of your time would
be working asynchronously independently, with frequent virtual and/or in person meetings
with your mentor.
Mary Hall – Chemistry & Biochemistry
Research Description: The Buss Lab focuses on the synthesis of organic photocatalysts (PCs) that will ultimately
enable “greener” synthetic lab work in both research and industrial settings. Our
work is currently investigating polymer supported photocatalysts that can be modified
to fit the specific needs of a reaction by making methodical adjustments to a core
PC. These catalysts will be tested in model reactions set up under inert atmosphere.
Ultimately, the goal of these photocatalysts is to improve energy efficiency in industrial
settings by operating under mild conditions with high recyclability. A Day in the Lab: This research would involve daily work in the lab, usually from 9 am to 1 pm. The
student will acquire a range of organic synthesis skills from setting up reactions
in air-free conditions to purification and characterization of the product. Students
will also have the opportunity to learn how to use UV-vis spectroscopy, fluorescence,
and NMR to characterize the molecules synthesized.
Andrea James – Biological Sciences
Research Description: Tissue fusion is guided by multiple molecules outside and inside of the cell. We utilize
the developing zebrafish eye to create 3D models of tissue fusion. Our previous work
demonstrated that the eye closes in different areas at different times. This summer
we are identifying which areas of eye are affected by inhibition of the actin cytoskeleton.
We will utilize confocal microscopy of fluorescing zebrafish eyes to identify which
areas of the eye are most effected in the presence of cytoskeletal inhibitors. These
images will then be processed and analyzed for spatiotemporal changes in tissue fusion
dynamics. These data will then be shared with the Engstrom lab in Physics to help
create a computer model of 3D tissue fusion. A Day in the Lab: The summer will have a general shift in what our days look like each week. In the
beginning weeks we will focus on breeding and imaging the zebrafish in a variety of
different inhibitor conditions. This would mean, one afternoon we set up the fish
to breed. Day 2 we collect and screen for health. Day 3 we screen the embryos for
which have green glowing eyes and prepare them for overnight imaging. Day 4 we add
and remove the inhibitor while the fish remains under the scope. Day 5 we prepare
the imaging movies for analysis. In the first 2-3 weeks we will do ~2 movie collections
each week while training on the imaging analysis in our down time. As we move closer
to the end of summer we will focus on completing out image analysis of all the summer
movies. Much of our day could be split in the early morning to the later afternoon
(so 9-11 and 2-5) leaving you available for classes during late morning, and early
afternoons. Not all hours are required in the lab however this flexibility would not
be available until the last 2 weeks of the program.
Cari Keyser – Biological Sciences
Research Description: My research focuses on understanding how mast cells, key immune system players, respond
to the cytokine TGF-β1. Specifically, I investigate how TGF-β1 activates Smad proteins
and influences mast cell function. Students will gain hands-on experience with techniques
such as phospho-flow cytometry, qPCR, Western blotting, ELISA, and Seahorse metabolic
analysis. This project explores how Smad3 activation affects cytokine production,
particularly IL-6, and metabolic pathways. By joining, students will develop critical
lab skills, contribute to immunological research, and gain insight into molecular
signaling pathways relevant to immune responses, allergies, and inflammatory diseases.
A Day in the Lab: Students will work in a research lab, gaining hands-on experience with immunological
assays and mammalian cell culture. A typical day begins around 9 AM and involves conducting
experiments such as phospho-flow cytometry, qPCR, Western blotting, ELISA, and Seahorse
metabolic analysis. Most assays take four or more hours, requiring careful planning
and execution. Students will learn to culture and maintain mast cells, prepare samples,
analyze data, and troubleshoot experiments. While the work does not involve animals,
it provides valuable training in molecular and cellular biology techniques. This lab
is ideal for students interested in research, laboratory skills, and immune system
function.
