UCLA PI Name: Keriann Backus
E-Mail: kbackus@mednet.ucla.edu
Division/Department: DGSOM/Biological Chemistry
Lab website: www.backuslab.com
Expected Weekly Time Commitment: 10-15h/week

Position Overview
We are looking for an enthusiastic and dedicated undergraduate researcher with strong computational skills who is interested in applying data science approaches to biological research. This position offers a unique opportunity for students with a coding background to gain exposure to bioinformatics, proteomics, and wet-lab molecular biology techniques.

Desired Majors
● Computational & Systems Biology
● Bioinformatics
● Computer Science
● Data Science or Statistics
● Biochemistry or Chemistry students with significant programming background

Required Skills
● Experience with Python and R programming
● Strong interest in data analysis and biological applications

Preferred Qualifications
● Coursework (taken or in progress) in data science, computational biology, biology, or chemistry
● Background or interest in bioinformatics, data visualization, or omics analysis
● Motivation to develop wet lab skills alongside computational training

Eligibility
● First- or second-year UCLA undergraduate students are strongly encouraged to apply.
● Expected commitment: part-time during the academic year with potential for expanded summer research. MUST have at least 2-3 blocks of 5 hour time in schedule to devote to research

Application Instructions

Interested students should send the following materials to kbackus@mednet.ucla.edu:
● A short statement of interest (max 1 page) describing relevant coursework, programming experience, and research interests
● A resume/CV (including GPA and coursework)
● Optional Supplemental Materials (Coding Project, Slide Deck Explaining Previous Experience)