Protein Engineering for Novel Biologic Therapeutics
Project Description
Biologics have revolutionized the way we treat a wide range of diseases, from cancer to autoimmune disorders. This project delves into a cutting-edge area of biologics development: engineering novel protein modulators designed to fine-tune cell surface receptor signaling. Cell surface receptors are crucial communication hubs on our cells, controlling a vast array of biological processes. When these receptors are dysregulated in diseases like cancer, autoimmune conditions, or even neurodegenerative disorders, they can drive pathology. Our research focuses on designing and creating new proteins that can specifically bind to these receptors and regulate their function. This project offers a unique blend of cutting-edge protein engineering techniques with a deep understanding of the fundamental mechanistic insights into receptor signaling. You'll be working at the intersection of molecular biology, biochemistry, and medicine.
Supervisor
MIAO, Yi
Quota
2
Course type
UROP1000
UROP1100
Applicant's Roles
As a UROP1000 participant, you will be an integral part of our research team, working closely alongside experienced postgraduate students. This introductory research experience is designed to provide you with a strong foundation in laboratory practices. Your primary responsibilities will involve:
Observing and learning: You will witness firsthand the day-to-day operations of a research laboratory, observing experimental procedures and scientific discussions.
Providing general assistance: You will support the postgraduate student in various lab tasks, which could include preparing solutions, maintaining lab equipment, organizing samples, and assisting with experimental setups.
Gaining practical skills: This role is all about providing you with valuable, hands-on experience in a real wet-lab environment. You'll have the opportunity to learn and practice basic lab techniques.
This foundational experience will equip you with the skills and confidence to pursue more in-depth UROP projects and research training in the future.
Observing and learning: You will witness firsthand the day-to-day operations of a research laboratory, observing experimental procedures and scientific discussions.
Providing general assistance: You will support the postgraduate student in various lab tasks, which could include preparing solutions, maintaining lab equipment, organizing samples, and assisting with experimental setups.
Gaining practical skills: This role is all about providing you with valuable, hands-on experience in a real wet-lab environment. You'll have the opportunity to learn and practice basic lab techniques.
This foundational experience will equip you with the skills and confidence to pursue more in-depth UROP projects and research training in the future.
Applicant's Learning Objectives
This UROP project is designed to be a highly enriching learning experience. Upon completion, you will have gained:
Hands-on Laboratory Experience: You will develop practical proficiency in essential wet-lab techniques.
General Molecular Biology and Biochemistry Techniques: You'll become familiar with core procedures such as molecular cloning, plasmid construction, cell culture basics and protein biochemistry.
Scientific Communication and Teamwork: You'll learn to communicate effectively with senior researchers and collaborate within a lab environment.
Hands-on Laboratory Experience: You will develop practical proficiency in essential wet-lab techniques.
General Molecular Biology and Biochemistry Techniques: You'll become familiar with core procedures such as molecular cloning, plasmid construction, cell culture basics and protein biochemistry.
Scientific Communication and Teamwork: You'll learn to communicate effectively with senior researchers and collaborate within a lab environment.
Complexity of the project
Moderate