Summary

The Division of Molecular and Human Genetics is seeing a Intern/Aide who will receive training in the design and synthesis of pyrrole-imidazole polyamides, small molecules that target specific DNA repeat sequences. Training will include organic chemistry techniques for solid-phase synthesis, HPLC purification, and mass spectrometry characterization. The intern will also learn mammalian cell culture, drug treatment protocols, and molecular/cellular assays to evaluate polyamide efficacy in contracting disease-associated trinucleotide repeat expansions.

Education objectives of the internship:

• Learn the principles and practice of pyrrole-imidazole polyamide design and synthesis for targeting trinucleotide repeat DNA sequences.
• Gain hands-on experience in mammalian cell culture and drug treatment assays to evaluate repeat-contracting therapeutics.
• Develop skills in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication in a translational research context. 

Job Purpose

Provides temporary administrative or laboratory support to a department while gaining practical work experience.  

Job Duties

• Synthesize pyrrole-imidazole polyamides using solid-phase synthesis methods.
• Purify and characterize compounds via HPLC and mass spectrometry.
• Culture mammalian cell lines and perform drug treatment experiments with polyamide compounds.
• Assess polyamide efficacy using PCR-based repeat sizing, gene expression assays, and cell viability assays.
• Participate in weekly lab meetings and journal clubs.
• Present findings at lab meetings and departmental symposia. 
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Education: Must be enrolled in high school, trade/vocational school or higher education institution.