UROP Project

Translational Aging Research

Aging, Alzheimer's disease, dementia, lifestyle, cardiovascular, nutrition, sleep, physical activity, psychology, adherence

Research Mentor: Dr. Julia Sheffler, She/her
Department, College, Affiliation: Center for Translational Behavioral Science, BSSM, Medicine
Contact Email: julia.sheffler@med.fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:

Looking for Research Assistants: Yes
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: Psychology, Biology, Neuroscience, IMS, and others
Project Location: Innovation Park - 2010 Levy Ave, Research Building B, suite 0266
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Yes
Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 10, Flexible schedule (Combination of business and outside of business. TBD between student and research mentor.)
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Not participating in the roundtable

Project Description

The primary goal of this course is to provide students with an opportunity to develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for research as a means to make positive societal progress and become well-informed clinicians or clinical scientists. Students are given opportunities to gain hands-on experience in the design, implementation, and reporting of scientific research studies. Topics of research include examination of neurobiological, psychosocial, and behavioral correlates relevant to lifespan health and cognitive functioning. Students will work with the instructor to develop their own research projects and identify appropriate course goals based on their prior experience and long-term academic and professional plans.

Research Tasks: Students are required to carry out research related to psychology, biology, aging, and translational science. Prior to beginning research, all students will complete a certificate in basic Human Subject Research (HSR) and Good Clinical Practice (GCP) through the CITI program in order to engage with research participants and their data. Students will assist the instructor as research assistants on multiple ongoing projects to develop a foundation in research practices, professionalism, and scientific procedures. Through hands-on research training, discussion in group lab meetings, and individual meetings with the instructor, students will develop their own project. Their research topic and specific research product (e.g., presentation, manuscript, annotated bibliography) is determined by the instructor and the student. Students may also use pre-existing data, or develop ideas as they work on ongoing lab projects.

Skills that research assistant(s) may need: professional, interested in aging research, organized, motivated, with good communication skills. Interest in pursuing research in medical or graduate school is preferred.