Dr. Rong Wang’s Lab at UCSF is seeking outstanding undergraduates for a part-time, Research position to assist a
postdoctoral fellow studying molecular regulation of blood vessel regeneration in stroke. Candidates with an interest in
Nonlinear microscopy, imaging, optical physics, or laser physics, would be a great fit. In the past, many undergraduates
have successfully used this research experience to pursue honors theses. There are ample opportunities to contribute
significantly and earn authorship in publications. This position also offers mentorship for those aspiring to pursue a PhD
in Bioengineering and applied physics. For highly committed students, there is potential for training at partner
universities.
Our Research: Proper formation and function of the vasculature are crucial for health and survival, as the vasculature
supplies all cells in the body. A dysfunctional vasculature causes myriad diseases, including stroke, arterial occlusive
diseases, and vascular anomalies. Our long-term goal is to identify novel drug targets and to treat vascular diseases. Our
strategy is to understand genes crucial for angiogenesis (new vessel formation) in the normal and diseased states. We
employ cutting-edge mouse genetics to delete or express genes in a temporally controllable fashion in vascular cells. We
combine these molecular approaches with mouse models of diseases as well as live 5D two-photon imaging (3D + blood
flow over time) to uncover both the molecular mechanisms and hemodynamic signals in development and disease
progression. Our lab members come from diverse fields, including biology, bioengineering, and medicine, creating a
collaborative and exciting environment. We strive to advance multiple projects across disciplines.
Requirements:
• A major or background in Engineering or physics.
• A time commitment of minimum 12 hours/week during the semester and more in the summer
• Minimum of 1 year in this position. Longer is preferred.
• Ability to come to San Francisco on at least 2 days/week.
• Willingness to work with mice as a preclinical animal model
• MATLAB knowledge/ability to learn
• A career interest in biomedical research
Responsibilities after training:
• Operating the custom-built two-photon microscope
• Utilizing MATLAB software to command the microscope
• Collaboratively obtain imaging data
• Maintaining the microscope, including Laser, Chiller, filter, etc
• Optical maintenance
• laser tracing/alignment
• component assembly
• software hardware connections
• Guided trouble shooting
• Communicating with vendors and collaborators
Individuals who are highly responsible and motivated, with outstanding hands-on, organization, and communication
skills are encouraged to apply. Preference will be given to candidates who have taken upper division courses, can
commit more hours per week, and can engage more than 1 year.
Please submit your CV and the names of references with the subject title “Undergraduate Research” to:
rong.wang@ucsf.edu