Cytoskeletal Function in C. elegans Embryos

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Project Summary Alyssa will use molecular genetics and high resolution light microscopy to further advance her discovery that microtubules are an integral component of the C. elegans oocyte cortex, where they serve to stiffen the cortex and thereby limit the extent of membrane ingressions during oocyte meiotic cell division and polar body extrusion. Through additional training, Alyssa will acquire extensive new skills in molecular genetics (optogenetics, gene replacement and genome editing) and microscopy (near TIRF, Zeiss Airyscan, and Nikon Spinning Disk SoRa microscopy). She also will gain extensive experience in collaborative, interdisciplinary research with our Imaging Facility Dr. Adam Fries and senior research associates in my lab, and with the undergraduates that she will mentor during her thesis work. Alyssa also will focus more on networking, particularly by attending multiple science conferences over the next two years. Finally, Alyssa will gain extensive additional writing and speaking experience, as these are the areas in which she most needs improvement. By being able to devote all of her time to lab work, without having to teach due to my insufficient budget for the remaining year of my current MIRA funding, Alyssa will be far more likely to excel with multiple publications and improvements in writing and speaking that will greatly improve her ability to succeed in career as an independent investigator.