Neuroendocrinology
Auditory Neurobiology
Behavior
Biophysics of Ion Channels
Cells Systems Imaging
Cellular and Molecular Neurobiology
Cognitive Neuroscience
Computational Neuroscience
Corticol Function
Development
Experimental Psychology
Hippocampal Neurobiology
Learning and Memory
Neuroanatomy
Neuroendocrinology
Neuromuscular Research
Neuropharmacology
Neurophysiology
Plasticity
Signal Transduction
Synaptic Function
Systems Neuroscience
Visual Neurobiology
Michael Baum
Department: Biology
Website: http://www.bu.edu/biology/Faculty_Staff/baum.html
Research: Research concerns the mechanisms controlling the sexual differentiation and adult display of courtship behaviors in mice. One project uses transgenic mice in which the Cyp-19 (aromatase) gene has been disabled to study the role of the sex hormone, estradiol, in the differentiation of female-typical aspects of courtship behavior, including olfactory responses to conspecifics. Another project concerns the interaction between the main and accessory olfactory nervous systems in the control of male and female mice. Techniques include brain immunocytochemistry to localize neuronal immediate-early gene products, steroid hormone receptors and several neuropeptides; in situ hybridization autoradiography to localize and quantify mRNAs for pheromone receptors in the vomeronasal organ; the quantitative analysis of sexual, scent marking, and maternal behaviors as well as operant methods for assessing animals’ ability to detect pheromones as well as their sexual partner preferences; and brain infusions of neurotoxins, tract tracers and neuropeptides to study the olfactory mechanisms controlling sociosexual behaviors.
Gloria Callard
Department: Biology
Website: http://www.bu.edu/biology/Faculty_Staff/gvc.html
Research: Research in this laboratory focuses on the biosynthesis and actions of estradiol. In tissues where aromatase and estrogen receptors are colocalized, estradiol has discrete, local actions that differ from those exerted by the circulating hormone. In one project the lab is investigating the structure, function and evolution of genes encoding P450arom and ER in neural tissues and the physiological and developmental consequences of estrogen formation in specific cells and circuits of the brain and retina. In a second project, the regulation of spermatogenesis by estrogen and the role of Sertoli cells as a source and target of intratesticular estrogen are studied. Specifically, the aims are to identify estrogen-sensitive control points, target genes and physiological processes during spermatogenic development. A component of both projects is to elucidate the actions of environmental estrogens and other xenobiotics that disrupt normal endocrine and neuroendocrine mechanisms of reproduction. A wide range of animal models from protein and steroid biochemistry, and molecular biology are used.
Working in the lab: Students must make a commitment of at least two semesters (including summers) and have prior experience working in a lab. Prerequisities include chemistry, biochemistry, and molecular biology. Students may work in this lab as a part of UROP or for senior distinction. Techniques exposed to and learned include cellular and molecular neurobiology and gene expression.
Miguel Alonso-Alonso
Department: Berenson-Allen Center
Website: http://tmslab.org/aboutus-faculty-alonso-alonso.php
Research: We are looking for a research student to work on independent projects related to the neurocognitive basis of eating behavior and obesity in humans. We are located at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in the Longwood Medical Area. Our research is supported by a collaboration of 3 centers in the hospital: the Center for the Study of Nutrition Medicine, the Weight Loss Surgery Center- Minimally Invasive Surgery Services, and the Berenson-Allen Center for Non-Invasive Brain Stimulation.
The position requires a highly motivated, detail-oriented individual with strong inter-personal skills, solid in writing and data analysis, and with a desire to learn state-of-the-art neuroscience methodologies used in our studies. These include: computer-based cognitive assessments, eye-tracking, neuroimaging, and noninvasive brain stimulation. Research students will be asked to develop an independent project with the guidance and mentorship of our research team. Projects can be used to fulfill requirements for undergraduate research credits and/or to develop a senior thesis. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to be involved in larger longitudinal studies with a clinical focus.
Qualifications: undergraduate work toward a degree in neuroscience, psychology, biology, or related degree; 6 month commitment of 10-15 hours/week; scientific writing skills; experience with Excel and SPSS. Ideal students will have an interest in nutrition and obesity.
This position is best suited for those who plan to apply to Ph.D. programs or medical school, especially those interested in careers in clinical research. Please e-mail cover letter and resume to Miguel Alonso-Alonso at malonso@bidmc.harvard.edu and Greta Magerowski at gmagerow@bidmc.harvard.edu
James Cherry
Department: Psychology
Website: http://www.bu.edu/psych/faculty/jcherry/
Research: Examining the cellular mechanisms underlying cognitive and sensory processes. Our primary interest is the Type IV phosphodiesterases (PDE4s), a group of enzymes related to dunce, which is a gene required for learning and memory in the fruit fly. Studies we have conducted on the distribution of PDE4s in mice point to possible roles in the processing of odors and pheromones. In addition, the localization of PDE4s to portions of the cerebral cortex, hippocampus and basal ganglia suggest that PDE4s may participate in the regulation of a variety of behaviors. We are currently investigating the role of different PDE4 subtypes in addiction and depression using molecular, pharmacological and behavioral approaches in the mouse.
Working in the lab: Students must make a commitment of at least two semesters (including summers) and may be required to have prior experience working in a lab. Students may work in this lab as a part of UROP or for senior distinction. Techniques exposed to and learned include animal behavior, immunochemistry, in vivo electrophysiology and neuroanatom along with working with mice.
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