Field of Study:
Microbiology, Genetics, Microbial Pathogenesis, Drug Discovery
Department:
Microbial Infection and Immunology
Rank of Student:
Freshman to Juniors
Desired Majors:
Microbiology , Biology, Biomedical Science, Biomedical Engineering, Molecular Genetics
Hours per Week:
10
Compensation Type:
Academic Credit,
Voluntary Experience
Application Deadline:
Contact:
Dr. Brian Ahmer, ahmer.1@osu.edu
Private
Public
Project Description
The ability to treat bacterial infections is threatened by rapid antibiotic resistance, creating an urgent need for the development of new antimicrobials. Our lab has discovered that by inhibiting the activity of mannitol-1-phopshate dehydrogenase (MtlD) in Salmonella, the toxic compound mannitol-1-phosphate (Mtl-1P) will accumulate in the cell, inhibiting growth. The lab is currently exploring the effects of Mtl-1P toxicity in a range of bacterial pathogens as well as searching for a chemical inhibitor of MtlD.
When first beginning in the lab, the prospective student will focus on basic lab skills such as making sterile media, pipetting, and cleaning dishware. After developing these skills, students can begin to learn fundamental biological techniques such as PCR, growth curves assays, cloning and aid on graduate students’ projects. Demonstrated commitment can lead to an independent research project in which a student will work with the lab to explore a topic of interest related to Mtl-1P toxicity. This opportunity is great for a student interested in a future career in the biomedical sciences.
When first beginning in the lab, the prospective student will focus on basic lab skills such as making sterile media, pipetting, and cleaning dishware. After developing these skills, students can begin to learn fundamental biological techniques such as PCR, growth curves assays, cloning and aid on graduate students’ projects. Demonstrated commitment can lead to an independent research project in which a student will work with the lab to explore a topic of interest related to Mtl-1P toxicity. This opportunity is great for a student interested in a future career in the biomedical sciences.
Required Applicant Information
Applicants should send along their resume, transcripts, and brief description of why they are interested in working in the lab!
Required or Desired Skills
• Attention to detail
• No experience working in a lab with microorganisms is necessary but is beneficial
• Taken introductory biology and chemistry courses
• No experience working in a lab with microorganisms is necessary but is beneficial
• Taken introductory biology and chemistry courses
Faculty Member Lead:
Dr. Brian Ahmer
Starting Semester:
Autumn,
Spring,
Summer
Length of Project (in semesters):
4