Division/Department: Neurology
Lab website: http://mathewslab.dgsom.ucla.edu/
Expected Weekly Time Commitment: 10-15 hrs

Job Description

We study the neurobiology of ataxia-telangiectasia (A-T) and cerebellar circuit dysfunction, with the goal of developing gene-editing based therapies. Our work spans a self-developed mouse model of A-T, iPSC-derived neuron models, and a base/prime editing therapeutic program developed in collaboration with the Broad Institute. We use a range of techniques including cerebellar slice electrophysiology, high-density multi-electrode array (HD-MEA) recordings, behavioral phenotyping, oxidative stress assays, and molecular/histological analysis.

What You’ll Do

You’ll join a small team of undergraduates working directly under our technician and trainees on active experiments. Depending on interest and lab needs, projects may include:

Assisting with mouse colony maintenance, genotyping, and behavioral testing (motor phenotyping assays)
Supporting iPSC culture and differentiation into cerebellar neurons
Preparing samples for histology, western blot, or oxidative stress assays
Assisting with data collection and analysis from electrophysiology or MEA recordings
General lab support: reagent prep, equipment maintenance, protocol documentation

This is a hands-on training role. You will be mentored day to day by our technician, graduate student, and postdoc, with regular check-ins with the PI.

Who We’re Looking For
UCLA undergraduate (any year; sophomores and juniors preferred for continuity)
Coursework or strong interest in neuroscience, molecular biology, or a related field
Reliable, detail-oriented, comfortable with repetitive precision work
Prior wet lab experience helpful but not required — we will train
Able to commit to a consistent weekly schedule for at least two semesters

Application Instructions

Send a short email to pmathews@ucla.edu with:

Your CV or resume
Cover letter including:
Your class year and major
A few sentences on your research interest and availability (days/hours per week)