[bioundgrd] Undergrad Biomedical Research Opportunity

[Joyce Roberge]

Faculty Supervisor: Prof. Ralph Weissleder
Project Title: Translational Magnetic Nanoparticle Assays for Personalized Cancer Therapy

Project Description: Currently, cancer is treated using a "one size fits all" approach. In this project, we seek to improve and personalize clinical decision-making in cancer treatment by creating assays that can 1) quantify whether a drug has reached the tumor 2) molecularly profile patients' cancer cells for important biomarkers and 3) identify markers of resistance. Our lab has developed a miniaturized micro-NMR device that can accurately measure the presence of magnetic nanoparticles in biological specimen such as tumor biopsies or circulating tumor cells in blood. In this project, we will use the magnetic nanoparticles to measure protein expression, drug inhibition and resistance to gain a better understanding of the underlying cancer biology and how this may affect treatment. The project is very interdisciplinary involving chemistry, biology, medicine, and engineering and there is potential to work directly with patient samples.

Prerequisites: Responsibility and good work ethic and a strong interest in biological and medical research is required. Experience with cell culture and wet lab techniques is a bonus but not required. Sophomores or juniors are preferred, but highly motivated freshmen are also encouraged to apply. Must be able to work 10+ hours per week in spring (flexible hours) and continue on full-time through the summer.

Contact: Please send CV and a cover letter covering why you are interested in the project and your future career goals to Adeeti Ullal (adeeti at mit.edu<mailto:adeeti at mit.edu>).

Adeeti Ullal
Ph.D. Candidate, Biomedical Engineering
Harvard-MIT Health Sciences and Technology
Weissleder Lab, Center for Systems Biology, MGH

aullal at partners.edu<mailto:aullal at partners.edu> | adeeti at mit.edu<mailto:adeeti at mit.edu>







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