Using CRISPR/Cas9 and other genomic tools to study genes in host-microbe mutualism

Please apply as soon as possible, as I aim to accept students by add/drop.

The Dong Wang Lab, located in the Life Science Laboratories, studies the mechanisms behind beneficial host-microbe interactions.  Our experimental system is the symbiosis between legumes and nitrogen-fixing rhizobia, with important economic and environmental relevance, as well as similarities to pathogenic interactions.  We continue to recruit talented undergraduate students interested in life science research.  The BUA student will be engaged in dissecting the genetic basis of the nitrogen-fixing symbiosis using cutting-edge research tools, such as CRISPR/Cas9 and NexGen sequencing.

The lab has worked with many undergraduate researchers.  Accomplishments by past undergraduate students include Fulbright fellowship (2024), Goldwater scholarship (2019), UMass Rising Researcher (2017), university and national fellowships, admissions to graduate schools at Columbia, Cornell, Johns Hopkins, MIT, UC Davis, UC San Francisco, UNC Chapel Hill, UPenn, as well as authorship in publications such as PNAS.

The applicant should have a strong academic record.  Prior experimental skills and genetic knowledge are a plus but not necessary.  This is not a one-time, short-term appointment.  Long-term commitment to the project (till graduation) is expected.  A CV/Resume and personal statement will be helpful in assessing applicants.  STUDENTS WHO APPLIED IN PREVIOUS ROUNDS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY AGAIN.  We are always looking for talented students; new research projects are possible for every round of recruitment. Members of the Commonwealth Honors College are expected to apply for research-based fellowships and research grants.