Gillespie Lab - Neuroscience Undergrad Info

So You're Interested in Neuroscience...

Although neuroscience is fundamentally biological, it has always been an extremely interdisciplinary field. Thus, BSc's and even PhD's in Biochemistry, Bioengineering, Math, Physics (or Biophysics), and Physiology can all be excellent preparation for further work in neuroscience. In particular, many of the tools of physics are quite helpful both for general experimental science and for neurophysiology especially. Regardless of major, we recommend a strong general science foundation that includes 2 years of math (e.g., applied math with differential equations and linear algebra), physics (including electricity and magnetism), and chemistry (including organic and physical chemistry), together with preparation in computer programming, cell biology/physiology, biochemistry, and -- of course -- lab experience. Most important, though, is that you find something you care about and pursue that where it leads you.

To learn more about educating yourself for biomedical research in the 21st century, read the National Research Council's BIO 2010 report to find out how leading researchers recommend that undergraduate students prepare for work in this field.

Laboratory Courses

The laboratory has a limited number of openings for highly motivated undergraduates with strong backgrounds and/or interest in science. Projects available to students with biology backgrounds most often involve neuroanatomical studies of cell morphology and/or protein expression. Additional opportunities exist for students with good preparation in math, physics, and/or computer science.

Before applying, please note:

This is a "hardcore" neuroscience laboratory; students seeking psychology lab experience can find many other opportunities within the department.

This lab does not perform any human clinical work; students interested in clinical testing can find many other opportunities on campus.

Students interested in laboratory projects must make arrangements well in advance in order to complete several university-required courses prior to beginning work in the lab.

The senior thesis is recommended only for students who can gain experience in the lab before the official course start date. This is necessary to allow time to complete required safety courses and to acquire basic competence with required lab skills.

To apply:

Submit an email inquiry, including the following information, at least 2 months before your proposed start date:

a brief description of your research interests and why you want to join the Gillespie lab
a brief description of your goals
a copy of your transcript (unofficial ok)

Please use the subject heading "thesis query," "lab practicum query," etc., as appropriate, and send your email to dgillespie at mcmaster.ca.

Independent Study/Library Courses

Before applying for an independent library study course, students must have completed at least 1 yr physics, 1 yr chemistry, and coursework in molecular biology, biochemistry, cell biology, and cell or integrative physiology, with marks of at least A- in these courses.

To apply:

Submit an email inquiry with the following information at least 1 month before your proposed start date.

a brief outline of your proposed library study
a copy of your transcript (unofficial ok)

Please use the subject heading "independent study query," and send your email to dgillespie at mcmaster.ca.

Work-study

The laboratory occasionally posts work-study positions for highly motivated undergraduates in science or engineering. Interested students should register with the Oscar site, search for positions listed as "neurobiology lab technician," and follow the instructions provided.

Volunteering

The laboratory currently has no openings for undergraduate volunteers.