Summer Research Program

Join MUSC Neuroscientists in a 10 week laboratory research experience in a major frontier in biology. MUSC neuroscientists are contributing to the rapid explosion of information in cell and molecular neurobiology, neurochemistry, and drug dependence and behavior. Financial Support is $250.00 per week for up to ten weeks. Our facilities are newly redesigned with state of the art equipment and instruments. Join the MUSC Neuroscience team. Contact Dr. Henry Martin, Department of Neurosciences, 843-792-2540 or martinh@musc.edu

PURPOSE

To Provide opportunity for well qualified students to undertake an original research project as an apprentice to an active research scientist in fundamental science research. This experience will enable students to build skills and understanding to prepare them for graduate school and careers as research scientists.

ELIGIBILITY

The awards are made to college juniors or sophomores who are considering a career in basic scientific research. This experience is particularly valuable for students seeking early admission to Ph.D. programs. Minority students are particularly encouraged to apply for all research programs.

PROJECTS

One major focus for research in 2001 is in the field of Neurobiology with emphasis on cellular signal transduction. "Summer Research in Cell Signaling in Neurobiology: Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) Site" supported by the National Science Foundation.

This program provides opportunities for undergraduate students to become directly involved in investigative research in the area of Cell Signaling in Neurobiology. Project areas involve the broad topic of how cell signaling allows the brain to adapt to a changing environment, including: signal molecules and their receptors, function of surface receptors, signal transduction pathways, signaling in development and cell differentiation, and cell signaling in memory formation and retrieval.

Neroscience research areas revolve around the cellular mechanisms mediating neuroplasticity in the visual and auditory systems, alterations in cell signaling, mediating and resulting from neuroplastic processes and the molecular basis of neuroplastic behavioral changes produced by exposure to environmental and pharmacological stimuli. Each student undertakes an original investigative project under the mentorship of a faculty investigator. This project culminates in an oral presentation and a scientific article.

The approaches and structural tools used in the research projects of the mentor faculty include DNA and protein sequencing, peptide synthesis and purification, oligonucleotide synthesis, molecular imaging, mass spectrometry, NMR spectrometry, light spectroscopies , biomolecular computing, organic synthesis, and laser confocal imaging. In addition to the ten week research projects, activities such as seminars, a journal club, and social functions are designed to stimulate student-faculty interaction and student-student communication. (Awards restricted to U.S. Citizens or permanent residents.)

In addition there is an EPSCoR program that supports minority applicants interested in neuroscience.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE

1. (Send the following application material to one of the addresses below)
2. Current transcript(s) from all colleges attended
3. Letter of recommendation from a college faculty member
4. Letter of application from the student. The letter of application should include reasons for applying, description of career goals and how this experience would fit in to these goals, past experiences which have led to interest in research, specific areas of interest, etc. Include both school and home telephone numbers and E-Mail address to ensure prompt notification.

DEADLINE FOR APPLICATION: February 1, 2002 (postmarked date)

FOR MORE INFORMATION AND TO APPLY CONTACT:

Henry F. Martin, III, Ph.D.
Department of Physiology and Neuroscience
Medical University of South Carolina
173 Ashley Avenue - Suite 403
P.O. Box 250510
Charleston, South Carolina 29425

Phone: (843) 792-2540
Fax: (843) 792-4423

E-mail: martinh@musc.edu

or

Hester Young, Coordinator
College of Graduate Studies
Medical University of South Carolina
171 Ashley Avenue
600 MUSC Complex - Suite 601
Charleston, South Carolina 29425

Phone: (843) 792-9620
Fax: (843) 792-2967

E-mail: Youngh@musc.edu