Professor Barber is offering a research
position for Summer 2012.
Description of Project:
Alzheimer’s disease is the
sixth-leading cause of death in this country. It is a progressive disorder,
whose hallmark symptoms are impaired memory and cognition. The fear of
acquiring Alzheimer’s has led to the use of herbal or dietary supplements
purported to enhance memory. The effectiveness of supplements is often based on
testimonial evidence. We research these supplements to determine if they are
actually effective. We produce amnesia in day-old chicks by administering a
drug called scopolamine. Previous studies show that ginkgo improves memory;
current studies are looking at phosphatidylserine (a fat similar to that found
in nerve cells). We now seek to understand the effects of a curcuminoid
compound most commonly called turmeric. Turmeric is traditionally used as a
healing medicine in South Asia, and studies suggest that it may be effective in
treating Alzheimer’s disease. Experiments will assess the ability of turmeric
to ameliorate scopolamine-induced amnesia in our paradigm.
Terms of Employment
The terms of
employment are for 8 weeks during the summer (from June 4th, 2012 to
July 27th, 2012). Students receive a stipend and living
accommodations on campus.
Application Procedures
If you are interested in applying for this position, please
make an appointment to talk with Professor Barber. When you come for the
appointment, please bring a one page resumé that describes the courses you have
taken that prepare you for this position, a description of other activities
that may be relevant, and a paragraph describing why this research position
would be valuable to your education. You
may make an appointment through email (barber@dickinson.edu).