Epigenetic mechanisms of gene regulation during mammalian development

This project closes on August 2, 2025. Applications are due by August 1, 2025.

The Vokes lab asks fundamental questions about how embryos generate specific organs and how transcriptional repression and epigenetic regulation influence these processes. Our studies utilize mice as a genetic system for modeling human development and birth defects. We are looking for a paid undergraduate research assistant to conduct experiments and assist with lab duties over the summer.  In addition to developing research skills, you would participate in lab meetings and journal clubs where you would learn presentation skills and improve your ability to understand and critique scientific literature.

Qualifications

You must be a rising sophomore or junior biology major with some prior laboratory experiences (seniors will not be considered). You must also have taken Genetics and obtained a B or better. Additional coursework in statistics, bioinformatics, genomics or developmental biology is useful but not required to apply for position. 

Strong candidates are interactive and enthusiastic about immersing themselves in a research project that would likely take place over more than one year. 

To apply, send a CV or resume, including at least one academic reference. In your email, explain why you are interested in our research and your current career plans. 

Project Timeline

The project starts in the Fall on a trial basis with the potential to extend it until you graduate. You need to be able to commit to 15+ hours a week with the ability to come into lab most days (this type of research can't be accomplished by only coming on a few days a week). 

Duties

Conducting experiments, reading papers, learning new techniques, assisting with lab duties such as genotyping and ordering. 

Typical Time Commitment
Greater than 15 hour a week.
Desired Length of Commitment
1 or more years

I'M INTERESTED IN THIS PROJECT. WHAT SHOULD I DO NEXT?

The Office of Undergraduate Research recommends that you attend an info session or advising before contacting faculty members or project contacts about research opportunities. We'll cover the steps to get involved, tips for contacting faculty, funding possibilities, and options for course credit. Once you have attended an Office of Undergraduate Research info session or spoken to an advisor, you can use the "Who to contact" details for this project to get in touch with the project leader and express your interest in getting involved.

Have you tried contacting professors and need more help? Schedule an appointment for additional support.