Ankur Saxena
Email Address: saxenaa@uic.eduCollege: Liberal Arts and Sciences Department: Biological Sciences
Title: Assistant Professor
Office: MBRB 4118 Phone: 3124138137
Webpage: www.saxenalab.com
Participating in the Chancellor’s Undergraduate Research Awards program: No
Research Interest:
We investigate the dynamics of stem cell migration and differentiation and cancer metastasis in vivo. Specifically, we combine high-resolution live imaging with genetic, molecular, and physical perturbation in zebrafish embryos to determine how neurons form in vertebrates and how cancer cells migrate long distances. Our current work is focused on neural crest and olfactory stem cells and neural crest-derived neuroblastoma. Minimum time commitment in hours per week: 12 Qualifications of a Student:
For research-focused positions, at least a two-year commitment to the lab is essential, and we expect a minimum of 12 hours/week. We do not ask for any particular classwork, lab experience, etc. In fact, students who join us in the first year or two of being at UIC, often with no experience but with a strong motivation to learn and contribute to a research project, tend to do very well. Only a one-year commitment (and minimum of 5 hours/week) is needed if interested solely in zebrafish husbandry or other basic tasks (i.e., not a research project-based position). When contacting Dr. Saxena, please specify what type of position you are looking for, what your interests are, and provide a CV or resume that includes your overall UIC GPA, major or science GPA, high school GPA, educational stage/year, and any other details you think highlight your strengths. Listing one or two references w/ contact info. (e.g., teachers or professors) is a plus. Emails that are generic and/or do not follow these guidelines will not receive a reply. Brief Summary of what is expected from the student:
We look for enthusiasm, maturity, reliability, a strong work ethic, and a willingness to learn as part of a collaborative team. In return, we provide a fun, supportive, and highly collegial working environment and the opportunity to do cutting-edge research and earn authorship on publications.
NOTE: This researcher is currently not accepting applications for the Undergraduate Research Experience program.
