Research Opportunity Number: (MOL-03)

Project Title: Examining sexual dimorphism in response to stress in a Drosophila model

Project Summary Drosophila (the fruit fly) engage in complex behavioral phenotypes and these can be altered by various stressors such as isolation or crowding. Male and female flies may respond differently to the same stress, and these differences in behavior can be recorded and quantified. We are interested in examining the biochemical correlates of these different behavioral responses. What signaling pathways are involved in these sexually divergent responses? Using a combination of genetic, molecular (RNA sequencing) and behavioral assays, the student will explore this question.

Student Roles and Responsibilities: The student will work with the PI and senior graduate student to develop a focused project to examine one behavioral response to stress, extract RNA and monitor changes in fly brain mRNA abundance. This will involve recording and analyzing the results of behavioral assays, preparing samples for RNA analysis, and performing Qpcr

Additional Considerations: Start and end dates are flexible, but the student should be available essentially full-time (at least 30 hours/week)

Department/Institute: Molecular Biology

Faculty Sponsor: Daniel Notterman

Participation Dates: 6/1/2024 to 8/15/2024

Stipend Offered: $0

Number of Internships Available: 0-2

Application Deadline: March 15, 2024, midnight eastern daylight time