URSA Engage Program 2013
Position Descriptions for Students to Apply For

Faculty Name & Department/School: Dr. Balz Frei, Linus Pauling Institute

Research Project Title:  Inhibition of Lipase Activity by Grape Seed Extract

Project Overview: 

Various flavonoid molecules isolated from the seeds of grapes have already been shown to inhibit enzymes involved in carbohydrate metabolism. The goal of this study is to examine the effects of grape seed extract and its components on pancreatic lipase, which is important in the absorption of fatty acids from the diet. The effects of the natural compounds from grape seed extract will be evaluated against synthetic inhibitors of lipase activity with in vitro assays.

What skills will students obtain in this project? 

Laboratory pipetting, analysis of enzyme kinetic data, multi-well fluorescence plate assays, and basic molecular biology techniques.

Student research tasks: 

Maintenance of a laboratory notebook, preparation of buffers, serial dilution of test compounds in appropriate concentrations, assembling components for enzyme reactions, analysis of fluorometer data

Period of work - Spring and Fall

Number of hours per week expected of student:     8-12

Preferred Faculty Contact Information:

Email: balz.frei@oregonstate.edu

(note - applications are NOT sent to mentors - see instructions)

 

q Yes    x No:   Human Subjects 

q Yes    xNo:   Live Vertebrate Animals

q Yes    x  No:   Recombinant DNA Molecules Transgenic Plants or Animal, and/or Infectious Agents of Plants, Animals, or Humans

q Yes    x  No:   Ionizing Radiation

q Yes    x  No:   Chemical Carcinogens

q Yes    x  No:   Scuba Diving, Free Diving

q Yes    x  No:   Small Boating Operations

If you are interested in applying for this position, you MUST complete the student application HERE and email it to Dr. Kevin Ahern at ahernk@onid.orst.edu

Do NOT email your application to the faculty mentor.