UROP Research Mentor Project Submission Portal: Submission #745

Submission information
Submission Number: 745
Submission ID: 14351
Submission UUID: 0a3cf505-a050-4d87-bbe7-0897a0e81fce

Created: Mon, 08/12/2024 - 11:25 AM
Completed: Mon, 08/12/2024 - 12:19 PM
Changed: Thu, 09/12/2024 - 11:23 AM

Remote IP address: 146.201.201.227
Submitted by: Anonymous
Language: English

Is draft: No
Primary Research Mentor Name Shinho Cho
Research Mentor Preferred Pronouns Dr. Cho
When potential research assistants are reaching out via email, what is your preferred honorific? scho@magnet.fsu.edu
Contact Email (FSU Email if affiliated) scho@magnet.fsu.edu
Position Title Faculty
FSU College (if applicable) N/A
FSU Department or Non-FSU Organization Affiliation National High Magnetic Field Laboratory
Headshot (optional) unnamed.jpg
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from above)
Research Assistant Supervisor Preferred Pronouns
Research Assistant Supervisor Preferred Honorific?
Contact Email (FSU Email if affiliated)
Name of Other Faculty/Collaborator(s) (if applicable)
Other Faculty/Collaborator(s) Preferred Pronouns
Other Faculty/Collaborator(s) Preferred Honorific?
Contact Email (FSU Email if affiliated)
Title of the Project Mapping functional networks in rat brain using ultra-high-field 21.1 Tesla magnetic resonance imaging
Project Keywords Central nervous system, functional connectivity, 21.1 Tesla fMRI
Are you currently looking for research assistants? No
Number of Research Assistants Needed 1
Relevant Research Assistant Major(s) STEM, but not limited
Project Location: National High Magnetic Field Lab, 1800 E Paul Dirac Dr, Tallahassee, FL 32310
If the project location is off campus, does the research assistant(s) need to provide their own transportation? Yes
Please select the choice that most accurately describes your expectations for the research assistant(s): In-person
Approximately how many hours a week would the research assistant(s) need to work? At least 10 hours a week
Roughly what time frame do you expect research assistant(s) to work? During business hours
Overall Research Project Description Small animal MRI is crucial in preclinical research. It enhances our understanding of neural behavior, cognition, and CNS-targeted drug testing while aiding in tumor diagnosis and treatment. Recent technological advancements have improved the study of live animal brains, deepening insights into brain functions such as sensation, perception, memory, and higher-order cognition. In my lab, we use a rat model to explore the mechanisms of sensation and perception through stimulation-evoked functional activation in the somatosensory system, employing various MRI techniques. Our goal is to understand how brain networks process sensory information and form memory, ultimately translating these findings to better understand neurological disorders like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and Obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Research Tasks In my lab, students engage in various research-related tasks, gaining hands-on experience and developing essential skills.
- MRI Operation: Students will learn to operate the world's strongest magnet (21.1 Tesla) and participate in brain imaging studies with rats and mice. They will assist in facilitating imaging sessions and, ultimately, gain the expertise to operate the MRI independently.
- Technical Development for MRI Acquisition and Data Analysis: Students will be introduced to the fundamental theories and techniques of high-speed, high-resolution imaging sequences. They will then have the opportunity to develop novel imaging sequences by modifying and enhancing existing sequences.
In data analysis, students will work on analyzing data from ongoing imaging research, utilizing basic statistical software to conduct studies, develop research hypotheses, and improve data interpretation.
- Animal Surgery and Handling: Students will receive hands-on training in essential animal brain surgery, including implanting various biophysical sensors in animal brains. They will learn how to anesthetize animals and perform basic surgical procedures, supporting crucial experimental activities. Ultimately, students will learn to independently conduct surgeries such as intracerebroventricular fluid extraction, injection, and intravenous drug infusion.
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Required:
Computer programming (e.g., Matlab, C/C++, Python, or R)
Excel & PowerPoint skills
Communication and scientific writing
Recommended:
Basic knowledge in biology, neuroscience, chemistry, electrical engineering and/or physics
Mentoring Philosophy As a mentor, I am dedicated to fostering an environment that supports my mentees' personal and professional growth. Recognizing that each student has unique goals and talents, my role is to guide them in identifying these attributes, setting meaningful goals, and developing the skills necessary to achieve them. Safety is crucial, especially in the National High Magnetic Field Lab. I prioritize teaching students the fundamental safety rules and ensuring they are implemented consistently. Given the lab's high-voltage, high-magnetic field equipment, I am committed to maintaining a safe and productive research environment, always mindful of potential risks.
- Understanding and Developing Goals and Talents: I help mentees identify their goals and build on their strengths, empowering them to take ownership of their work and develop confidence in their abilities.
- Mutual Respect and Accountability: I foster an environment of mutual respect, open communication, and accountability, encouraging mentees to take responsibility for their learning and growth.
- Sharing Experience and Encouraging Inquiry: I share insights from my experiences while promoting inquiry and critical thinking, encouraging mentees to explore, ask questions, and challenge assumptions.
Motivation and Encouragement: I understand each mentee's motivations and provide support and encouragement, helping them stay driven and overcome obstacles.
Finally, our research aims to develop technologies that benefit humanity and improve the environment. I emphasize ethical practices in studies involving nature and animals. By fostering a balanced understanding of science, humanity, and nature, we aim to cultivate individuals who can contribute to science and society.
Please provide a link to your publications, a video clip, or a website for your research project (if applicable): https://nationalmaglab.org/user-facilities/nmr-mri-s/
Please add any additional information here (if applicable):
Are you interested in participating in the UROP Research Mentor Roundtable? Yes
Roundtable times and Zoom links Shinho Cho, Ph.D. is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.

Topic: Roundtable, MagLab MRI Research
Time: Friday, Sep 6, 2024 12:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Join Zoom Meeting
https://fsu.zoom.us/j/9026558468?omn=98248872516

Meeting ID: 902 655 8468
Roundtable Info
Mentor Handbook, FAQs, and Communication Yes
UROP Performance Evaluation Yes
Materials Grant Yes
UROP Poster Presentation Yes
Year 2024
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