Job Description

Dr. Shabnam Shalapour at MD Anderson Cancer Center is offering a unpaid College Student research trainee appointment in the department of Cancer Biology.

The Shalapour Lab conducts basic cancer immunology research using lifestyle-induced cancer models. We investigate how obesity, dietary macronutrient composition, and alcohol consumption influence aging, host metabolism, and immune function-factors that collectively contribute to the development of metabolic dysfunction-associated hepatocellular carcinoma (MASH-HCC). Our studies examine the gut-liver and gut-brain axes, chronic inflammation, and adaptive immune responses in tumor initiation and progression. The overarching goal is to identify mechanisms that drive cancer development and immune evasion, ultimately informing preventive strategies and combination immunotherapies.

All duties and responsibilities are carried out in compliance with institutional policies, ethical research standards, and applicable federal and state regulations.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES
Students will receive hands-on training in basic cancer immunology using preclinical models such as mouse models, organoid cultures, and cell culture systems. The internship includes opportunities to learn and apply key laboratory techniques, including:
• RT-PCR
• Flow cytometry
• Western blotting
• Tissue culture
• Histology
• Multiomic : scRNA-seq, spatial transcriptomic
• Mouse handling and care
• Experimental design and data analysis

No prior experience is required, but applicants must be eager to learn cancer biology, immunology, and essential research skills.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
Applicant must be currently enrolled in an undergraduate degree program
Applicant must be at least 18 years of age by the appointment start date
The appointment is not part of a clinical training program

ADDITIONAL APPLICATION INFORMATION
Students are appointed by semester:
Fall: 9/1-12/31
Spring: 1/1-5/31
Summer: 6/1-8/31

POSITION INFORMATION
Part-time, without compensation.

Job Tags

Traineeship, Summer work, Internship,

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