Chromosome Research: Yeast Genetics and Imaging Data Analysis

This project investigates the molecular and physical mechanisms of meiotic homolog pairing in budding yeast. We integrate yeast genetics and live-cell imaging approaches to understand how chromosomes search for and pair with their homologous partners during meiosis, a fundamental process in genetics and reproduction.

We are recruiting undergraduate researchers for the Fall-Winter seasons (≥8 hours per week, ≥2 credits). Preference will be given to students who can work during the winter season (except during holidays) and who have a strong interest in chromosomes and genetics.

Yeast Genetics Position

Students in this position will focus on how protein mutations affect meiotic homolog pairing and how meiotic homolog pairing occurs in polyploid cells.

Required Skills

  • Basic molecular biology techniques (PCR, bacterial transformation, DNA extraction).
  • Prior lab experience (including lab courses) is essential.

Application Materials

  • Please describe your independent lab experience.
    • If you have the experience of manual tetrad dissection in budding yeast, please highlight this experience.
  • Please complete the attached genetics problem set (260805_PROPEL_Q.pdf). Submit a PDF of your handwritten work, including your reasoning process.
  • If possible, please provide your transcript.
Name of research group, project, or lab
Nozaki Lab
Representative publication or further information
Logistics Information:
Field(s) of Study
Biology
Student ranks applicable
Sophomore
Junior
Time commitment
8-10 h/wk
11-14 h/wk
15+ h/wk
Position Types and Compensation
Credit for Research and Teaching
Number of openings
1
Techniques learned

Yeast genetics, Basic molecular cloning, Live-cell imaging, Quantitative data analysis

Project start
September 2026
Contact Information:
Mentor
tnozaki@umass.edu
Principal Investigator
Name of project director or principal investigator
Tadasu Nozaki
Email address of project director or principal investigator
tnozaki@umass.edu
1 sp. | 15 appl.
Time commitment
8-10 h/wk (+2)
8-10 h/wk11-14 h/wk15+ h/wk
Field(s) of Study
Biology