Elucidating the function of atypical PDR-type ABC transporters in the fungal pathogen Cryptococcus neoformans

We have 2 positions available for undergraduates to participate on biomedical research studying the pathogenic fungus Cryptococcus neoformans. Cryptococcus is an environmental yeast present worldwide and is one of the most common causative agents of invasive fungal infections, responsible for close to 300,000 cases of meningitis yearly, with 200,000 of them dying. Fungal pathogens have been neglected for decades, hence, there is an incomplete understanding of their pathogenesis. We have identified a gene, an ABC transporter of the PDR-type, that when deleted, makes the fungus hypersensitive to antifungals and, interestingly, alters the disease progression and the animals die of pneumonia rather than the typical meningitis. Notably, this gene is an atypical PDR gene, and Cryptococcus has 3 more of these atypical transporters, but none have been studied prior to our work. We are interested in elucidating the function of these other 3 atypical PDR genes. The student in this position will assist a graduate student carry out various assays with the hope that they will learn the methods and techniques in order to become independent later on. Hence, preference will be given to students that are interested on a research career and committed to spend at least 3 hours a week working in the lab. Because I envision the student taking ownership of the project, freshmen are highly encouraged to apply such that you can start in the laboratory during your second year, providing enough time to learn, grow, and become independent. Sophomore applicants will also be considered; however, junior applicants will have lower priority unless they have already considerable research experience.