BIOL 537 2013-14
Dr. I. Chin-Sang

Rm.:  2422a Bioscience Complex
Tel:   (613) 533-6124
E-mail:  chinsang@queensu.ca
Faculty web site:  http://www.queensu.ca/biology/people/faculty/chinsang.html

RESEARCH AREA/POTENTIAL PROJECTS
Our lab uses a combination of genetic, molecular, biochemical, and microscopy techniques to understand how cells move and change their shape. Our goal is to understand these cell behaviors at the molecular level.  We use the genetic model organism C. elegans to understand what molecules regulate cell and tissue morphogenesis. We have identified mutant worms that undergo abnormal morphogenetic movements during development. These worms have mutations in genes that encode ligands (ephrins) and a Receptor tyrosine kinase that function and are expressed in the nervous system. The student will help with genetic and biochemical experiments to further understand the signal transduction pathway of these molecules during development.  The student will carry out genetic screens designed to identify new genes in morphogenesis as well use molecular approaches to characterize how these genes function in vivo. The genes we study in C. elegans are also found in humans and have roles in nervous system and blood vessel development, and have also been implicated in cancer. Thus our research has implications in both the medical and basic sciences

STARTING DATE:September (or earlier if permitted)