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<blockquote type="cite" cite><br>
Fall 2005</blockquote>
<blockquote type="cite" cite>Mechanical Engineering</blockquote>
<blockquote type="cite" cite>Faculty Supervisor: Prof. Peter T.C.
So<br>
<br>
Single Cell Mechanics<br>
<br>
We are interested in hiring 2 UROP students for next year (2005-2006)
to carry out experimental work to determine the effect of cell shape
on cellular stiffness and cytoskeletal architecture. The size, shape,
and location of a single cell is controlled by dropping them on
micropatterned islands. Once the cells have adhered and spread on the
islands, we perform magnetic trapping experiments to determine their
stiffness and use confocal microscopy to visualize cellular structure.
Our lab has concluded work involving determining for circular shaped
cells the effect of cell size on cellular stiffness and cytoskeletal
distribution. Of current interest is, in addition to size, what is the
effect of the shape of the cell.<br>
<br>
The intent is for each student to conduct experiments for one
particular shape and for these results to be included for subsequent
publication. We anticipate that this project will take at least one
semester but no more than one year to be completed. Estimated 15
hrs/week, either for credit or for pay.<br>
<br>
Contact: Please send CV to Judith Su (<a
href="mailto:judy@mit.edu">judy@mit.edu</a>) by August 19, 2005 for
full consideration. After 8/19 the position will remain open until
filled.</blockquote>
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