We are also looking for volunteers who are highly motivated and interested in pursuing a career in biological or biomedical research. Typical students would be in their second year majored in biology, biochemistry, CMDB or Neuroscience and interested in going to Graduate School. Excellent communication and time management skills are a must.

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You will learn experimental techniques including molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, mouse genetics and surgery. You will learn to contribute intellectually and experimentally to a research project led by a senior member of the lab. A talented and motivated student will be able to quickly learn experimental techniques and start to do experiments with less and less supervision and ultimately, independently. For undergraduate researchers who want to go to Graduate School after graduation, the lab experience will also earn the student a letter of reference commenting on their outstanding undergrad research activity, which is invaluable for admission into a competitive graduate program. Such undergrad research experience is desired by graduate admission committees at all universities.

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Someone who is highly motivated should be able to come to the lab in between and after his/her classwork or on weekends for at least about 20 hours/week or during the summer vacation time (three months minimum). Some students choose to take 9 months to a year off for more intensive research training during their undergraduate or medical school, or before going to medical or graduate school. A student who commits for a longer period typically benefits more from his/her research training and is able to contribute to research in a more significant way and become a co-author on publications. The person should be very strong academically (cumulative GPA >3.6) so that the lab work does not negatively impact his/her class work performance.

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To apply for these undergrad opportunities, please e-mail your resume and a copy of your grades to nicole.zurnieden@ucr.edu. Students from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds are especially encouraged to apply. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.