The Department of Biomedical Sciences is seeking applications from interested candidates for a summer research student position within cellular and biochemical toxicology projects. The successful candidate will work under the direction of the Principal Investigator (PI), Dr. Collins Kamunde.

This summer research position offers an opportunity for an undergraduate student to gain hands-on experience in cellular and biochemical toxicology. Working closely with the PI, a PhD student, and laboratory technician, the successful candidate will contribute to a project investigating how environmental stressors disrupt cellular metabolic and redox balance in fish. The research focuses on understanding how stressors alter cellular function and trigger adverse outcomes such as oxidative stress and cell death. The student will be trained in and actively participate in techniques including primary cell culture of fish hepatocytes, cytotoxicity testing, and metabolic and redox profiling. Additional exposure to biochemical assays and data analysis will provide a comprehensive introduction to experimental research.

This position is ideal for students interested in toxicology, physiology, or biochemistry, and will provide valuable experience in studying how environmental stressors impact organismal health at the cellular level.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Willingness to learn how to handle fish in a laboratory setting
• Assist in primary cell culture of fish hepatocytes, including isolation, plating, maintenance, and monitoring of cell health
• Support experiments investigating effects of stressors on cellular and mitochondrial function
• Conduct cytotoxicity assays to assess cell death pathways
• Participate in metabolic and redox profiling studies to assess impact of stressors
• Prepare reagents, buffers, and media following established laboratory protocols
• Operate and maintain basic laboratory equipment under supervision
• Assist with sample collection, processing, and storage
• Record experimental data accurately in lab notebooks and digital formats
• Perform basic data entry and analysis
• Follow laboratory safety procedures and maintain a clean and organized workspace
• Preparation of presentations or posters summarizing research findings

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Currently enrolled in an undergraduate program in biology, biochemistry, environmental science, physiology, or related fields at UPEI
• Interest in toxicology or cellular stress physiology
• Ability to follow protocols and maintain accurate records
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team under supervision
• Good written and verbal communication skills
• Good interpersonal skills
• Basic computer skills (e.g., Microsoft Excel)
• Commitment to maintaining a safe and professional laboratory environment
• Familiarity with general laboratory practices (previous research or laboratory experience is an asset)

Priority will be given to University of Prince Edward Island students in accordance with Recruitment, Selection, Hiring and Employment Policies and the Procedures manual.