Cardiac stem cell patch

We are developing a patch with stem cells to treat heart attack. This is an exciting new area of research that involves stem cell biology and biomaterials development. Our work involves testing stem cells and materials in cell culture, followed by animal implantation studies to test for effectiveness in treatment. This type of therapy could open up options for heart attack patients, for whom there is currently no treatment available.

Minimum 3.5 GPA. Must be able to devote at least 15 hours/week to being in the laboratory, no exceptions. Students will be accepted on a volunteer basis for the summer, and may continue on during the Fall/Winter semester for an honors thesis. There is also potential for the student to apply for a College of Engineering UROP stipend in the Fall.

Must be self-motivated, pay attention to detail, be able to work independently and in a team, be open to learning new things, and be very responsible (must be present in lab when needed and for lab meetings). Must be excited to learn about the cardiovascular system, biomaterials and stem cells.

Summer 2015 and on, depending on performance.

Assist the microsurgeon and PhD student in charge of this project by aiding in:
-cell culture (including stem cells)
-preparation of patch materials
-materials analysis
-imaging
-animal surgery preparation

May 11, 2015