| Project Title | Principal Investigator (First) | Principal Investigator (Last) | Can be done remotely (Y/N/TBD) | Type of Research | General Project Description or a General Descript | Tasks Student Will Perform/Learn During Internship | Minimum Requirements for the Project | Seattle Children's Research Center | ||||
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| 1 | Analysis of mouse models of human birth defects. | David |
| No | Basic Science/Bench Research | We have identified a cohort of genes that are potential causes of human birth defects. Many of these have been “knocked-out” in mice using genome engineering methods. We are examining a number of these by breeding heterozygous carriers and collecting homozygous embryos at mid-gestation and late-gestation. The mutant embryos will be assessed by morphological analysis, RNA sequence analysis, and micro-CT analysis. Review of these results will assess the potential role these genes have in mammalian development and human congenital disorders. | Mutation genotyping by PCR. Mouse handling and husbandry. Mouse embryo collection (under supervision). Morphology assessment. Tissue preparation for RNA analysis. Embryo preparation for microCT analysis. Evaluation of RNA sequencing and microCT data. | Lab courses in Biology or Chemistry. Experience with computer programs such as MS Word and Excel. Experience with PCR preferred. Prepared to work with mice and mouse embryos. | Center for Developmental Biology and Regenerative Medicine (CDBRM) | |||
| 2 | Molecular diagnosis of vascular malformations | James |
| No | Basic Science/Bench Research | Vascular malformations are due to mutations in genes well known to cause cancer., and clinical trials for targeted inhibition of certain growth promoting pathways may benefit children with vascular malformations The Bennett lab is developing methods to more precisely diagnose these lesions to improve our understanding and management of individuals with vascular malformations. | Assist with DNA extraction and PCR analysis, some data analysis too. | Be able to hold a pipette, follow instructions and take good notes of what happens in the lab | ||||
| 3 | the impact of trained immunity on SARS-CoV-2 and Mycobacterium tuberculosis co-infection on disease progression and immunopathology | Rhea |
| Yes | Basic Science/Bench Research | The unexpected emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted an important gap in our understanding of the potential immunological consequences resulting from Mtb and viral co-infections and how this could impact clinical treatment decisions. Moreover, the impact of innate or trained immunity on the outcome of thee co-infections is unknown. The potential impact of SARS-CoV-2 co-infection on global TB deaths is alarming to the global health community, given there are currently no defined treatments for COVID-19, with severe patients being administered anti-inflammatory medication to regulate the robust immune response]. We hypothesize co-infection of SARS-CoV-2 and Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) will lead to dysregulation of the immune system and exacerbate immunopathology of Mtb infection, as well as enhance progression of SARS-CoV-2 infection. In contrast, controlled lung inflammation mediated by therapeutic treatment prior to co-infection will provide partial protection and dampen damaging effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection in a co-infected state. | Evaluation of innate immunity in preventing an exacerbation of pathology and inflammation in co-infected animals Measurement of Mtb burden and SARS-CoV-2 infection progression ELISA, cytokine/chemokine assays Pseudoneutralization assays to measure neutralizing potential | 2 years wet lab/bench experience Tissue culture, sterile techniques | Center for Global Infectious Disease Research (CGIDR) | |||
| 4 | Monocytic pro-inflammatory modulation for the improvement of immunotherapy | Heather |
| No | Basic Science/Bench Research | Seattle Children’s Research Institute (SCRI) is harnessing the power of a child’s own immune system to treat pediatric cancer, developing a world-renowned research program in engineered T-cells. This program has revolutionized the treatment of pediatric leukemia, leading to 94% remission initial rates in children with stage 4 acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). However, engineered T-cells present with challenges, 50% of these children who initially responded to engineered T-cells will undergo relapse. Additionally, in a small percentage of patients, engineered T-cells can present with serious side-effects that can lead to death. Unfortunately, there is currently no way to predict which patients will present with these side effects and which patients will relapse. Up till now, research has focused on engineering the T-cell, a major component of the child’s immune system. However, there are other components to a child’s immune system; this proposal focuses on engineering a component called a macrophage. Macrophages talk to T-cells, using a protein called a cytokine, helping to boost T-cell effects and eradicate a child’s cancer. Macrophages within children who respond to engineered T-cells long term (do not relapse) are able to release cytokines or talk with T-cells more effectively. On the reverse side of that same coin, those small percentages of patients who present with serious side-effects have macrophages that are too effective at talking to T-cells, or are releasing too many cytokines. We are developing a new technology that predicts how effective macrophages will be at talking to T-cells. This technology can be used to prevent toxicity and reduce relapse, allowing for more kids to live healthy cancer-free lives. | The student will learn the following methods: enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, cell culture, fluorescence-based amyloid and imaging assays. | A positive attitude, willingness to work hard, and love science. | Ben Towne Center for Childhood Cancer Research (BTCCCR) | |||
| 5 | Engineering more efficatious cells for solid tumor immunotherapy | Michael |
| No | Basic Science/Bench Research | Solid tumors have been historically difficult to treat, and current immunotherapy approaches have had limited efficacy. There are a number of different ways that our lab is better understanding these limitations and utilizing different methods to better engineer our T cell products. The current project area we are focusing on is using small molecule drugs in conjunction with synthetic promoters to investigate whether an oscillation method of T cell activation can yield better pre-clinical results. | Mammalian sterile tissue culture, molecular cloning (eg PCR, ddPCR, DNA purification, cellular based assays (eg. staining for flow cytometry, cytotoxicity assays) | Strong knowledge of cell biology, immunology, or molecular biology. Previous lab experience in bench research is a plus. | Other | |||
| 6 | Role of interneurons in the mechanisms of Leigh syndrome | Franck |
| Yes | Basic Science/Bench Research | The student will examine the vulnerability of interneurons when carrying a gene mutation that causes Leigh syndrome, the most common form of mitochondrial disease in children. | The student will use immunohistochemistry to label and count interneurons in different brain regions of a mouse model of Leigh syndrome. The student will learn how to genotype mutant mice used as disease models in the lab. If possible (depending on animal access approval), the student will learn how to evaluate motor coordination using horizontal beam behavioral test. | Brain slicing Knowledge of brain region Previous exposure to IHC. | Center for Integrative Brain Research (CIBR) | |||
| 7 | Investigating signaling within Plasmodium-infected hepatocytes | Alexis |
| TBD | Basic Science/Bench Research | We are trying to describe how the malaria parasite interacts with the host hepatocyte during liver-stage infection. We are using quantitative fluorescent microscopy to investigate how protein levels change within and around infected cells and how this might effect parasite survival and the host immune response. | Staining of tissue slides, antibody optimization, fluorescent microscopy, quantitative image analysis, and compiling and presenting their findings. | Familiarity with pipetting is preferred but not required. | Center for Global Infectious Disease Research (CGIDR) | |||
| 8 | Testing new treatments for Ewing sarcoma | Beth |
| No | Basic Science/Bench Research | Our lab studies the biology of Ewing sarcoma, an aggressive bone tumor, to find new and less toxic therapies. By understanding the genes and proteins that drive cancer growth, we are better able to develop targeted approaches that selectively kill the tumor. Summer interns will work on these projects to help move lab-based discovery science forward towards the clinic. | Under the direct supervision of a senior graduate students or fellow,, the student will learn how to culture cancer cells, measure gene expression, and test the efficacy of drugs and proteins as new therapeutics. Specific techniques will include: RNA and DNA isolation, PCR, Western blot, drug treatments, measuring cell proliferation and cell death using direct and indirect biochemical assays. They will be introduced to genomics, and epigenomics, and exposed to next generation sequencing. | At least one semester in a wet laboratory environment with standard biosafety training. Prior summer internship or part-time research role during the school year preferred. | Ben Towne Center for Childhood Cancer Research (BTCCCR) | |||
| 9 | Zebrafish models of muscular dystrophy and congenital heart defects | Lisa |
| No | Basic Science/Bench Research | My lab has 2 potential projects for students. Both of these projects offer strong opportunities for the student to have an independent role, potential for publication, and potential to extend the research beyond the summer program. The first project uses a zebrafish model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy to identify new drug therapies for DMD. In particular we are testing drugs affecting epigenetic modifications. We are also using RNA-seq on DMD zebrafish to identify novel mRNA biomarkers that are affected by these drug treatments. The student will test new drugs for beneficial effects on DMD fish and test how the drugs affect gene expression and chromatin. The second project uses CRISPR to engineer zebrafish models of congenital heart defects. In particular we are using CRISPR to screen a large set of novel genes in zebrafish, to determine their roles in formation of the heart during embryonic development and potentially link these genes to heart defects in humans. The student will use molecular, genetic, and imaging approaches to determine how gene mutations lead to heart defects. | In these projects, the student will learn zebrafish breeding and genetics, and animal genotyping and microscopy techniques, and molecular biology such as PCR and in vitro RNA synthesis. | Interest and motivation in lab bench experience and working with animal models of human disorders is required. Previous course work in biology and genetics and skills in pipetting are helpful. | Center for Developmental Biology and Regenerative Medicine (CDBRM) | |||
| 10 | “Characterizing Experiences with Feeding and Surgical Treatments among Parents of Children with Oral Clefts” | Christy |
| Yes | Basic Science/Bench Research | These will be two inter-related projects using the same research data, which has already been collected and is awaiting analysis. The first project will be a qualitative data analysis of over 500 excerpts that parents made about feeding their child born with an oral cleft. The second project is to examine the parent experiences of the treatments their child received in order to obtain a greater understanding of the variation in treatments and parent and child experiences (assistance with quantitative analysis will be provided). Most information about feeding and family experiences of surgical treatment in this population is anecdotal and relies on small samples. We have a rich, high quality, existing source of data that can add new information on these topics. The goal of both projects is to have the student write up a paper for publication. | Learn about oral clefting and conduct a brief literature review, draft and iterate on a project plan to develop the specifics of their project, including the development of a specific aims and a short protocol for study execution. Conduct data analysis. The qualitative project will be conducted by the student. The treatment study, which involves quantitative analysis, may be supported with additional analysis with the student developing ‘dummy tables’. Both students will learn how to write each section of a manuscript and draft their findings for publication in a peer reviewed journal. | Strong writing skills are a must. Critical thinking, strong analytical skills, and logic oriented is needed. Detail oriented. Self-starter. A course in statistics would be great, but not required. Interest in nutritional, oral cleft desirable. | Center for Child Health, Behavior and Development (CHBD) | |||
| 11 | Elucidating the evolutionarily-derived cellular and molecular innovations of the spiny mouse’s (Acomys cahirinus) central nervous system underlying its enhanced ability to withstand and recover from severe systemic inflammation | Kathleen |
| TBD | Basic Science/Bench Research | In humans, neuroinflammatory insults cause irreversible damage to the central nervous system (CNS) from severe immunological responses, particularly to the neural stem cell niche of the adult hippocampal dentate gyrus (DG), a region of the brain critical for regulation of memory, cognition and emotion. Regenerative repair of traumatic human brain injuries has been a long-standing goal of medicine, including strategies aimed at ameliorating brain injuries from systemic inflammation. Acomys cahirinus, also known as spiny mouse, has emerged as a mammalian model of regeneration that has evolved the remarkable ability to evade predation by shedding large patches of skin when attacked and healing through regeneration instead of fibrotic scarring. Our studies have also shown that Acomys are resilient to severe neuroinflammation, which normally leads to death or severely suppressed adult neurogenesis in lab mice. Additionally, Acomys appear to exhibit resiliency to DG damage following severe systemic inflammation. Acomys’ increased capacity for neural resiliency could stem from evolutionary innovations in cell populations and molecular responses, including differential modulation of the local immune response. One goal of the Millen lab at SCRI is to uncover the evolutionary innovations that led to Acomys’ increased fitness by defining the basic cellular and molecular features of Acomys’ CNS, particularly in the adult neural stem cell niche of the hippocampus. Our goal is to define the cell types, molecular responses and recovery dynamics of the CNS following neuroinflammation using histological, molecular and microscopy techniques. | During this project, students will perform or learn how to process mammalian tissue, perform molecular and cellular analysis of tissue, imaging through microscopy and image/data analysis and interpretation. Techniques will include but not necessarily be limited to tissue histology (cryostat sectioning, immunohistochemistry), imaging (confocal microscopy), transcriptional analysis (qPCR), image/data analysis (ImageJ, Imaris, Graphpad or Excel). | Prospective students should be passionate about learning, have great organizational/written skills, willing to work both independently and collaboratively and be open to constructive feedback. Students should be familiar with some basic cellular and molecular biology, any knowledge of stem cell biology or immunology a plus. Familiarity with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Powerpoint) is required while familiarity with Adobe Suites (Photoshop, Illustrator) is a plus, but not necessary. Prospective students should be comfortable working with mammalian tissue. | Center for Integrative Brain Research (CIBR) | |||
| 12 | Engineering immune cells with lentiviral gene vectors | Rimas |
| No | Basic Science/Bench Research | Our lab focuses on creating gene vectors to transduce T cells and NK cells for the immunotherapy of cancer. Your project will consist of creating and then testing a novel gene vector and testing for its ability to mediate anti-tumor effects. | Molecular Cloning of plasmid DNA Gel electrophoresis PCR tissue culture flow cytometry | Candidates with mammalian tissue culture, flow cytometry and molecular cloning experience are preferred, but not required. | Ben Towne Center for Childhood Cancer Research (BTCCCR) | |||
| 13 | Synthesis and identification of novel compounds for the treatment of tuberculosis | Tanya |
| No | Basic Science/Bench Research | Synthesis of organic molecules using various reaction conditions and procedures toward developing new agents for inhibiting Mycobacterium tuberculosis. | Students will learn how to setup chemicals reactions, purify organic compounds using auto purification techniques, and learn uses of HPLC and mass spectrometer for analyzing purity and mass of synthesized organic molecules. Student will also learn how to analyze organic molecules by Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) and how to interpret data to confirm chemical structures. Students will learn how to search chemicals using database call SciFinder. In addition, students will learn to how to write experimental procedures, write project report and prepare power point presentation. | Second year in a college or university completing organic chemistry courses. | Center for Global Infectious Disease Research (CGIDR) | |||
| 14 | Signal transduction in Neurons or T cells | Stephen |
| No | Basic Science/Bench Research | The SEPS lab studies molecular signal transduction networks in neurons and T cells (separate parts of the lab). We use a combination of molecular biology, imaging and computational approaches in mouse and human models. We focus on CAR T cell biology and the neurobiology of autism. The PI of the lab is willing to work with applicants to design individualized summer projects that fall within our interest areas, based on student interests and prior experience. | possibilities include: -flow cytometry -co-immunoprecipitation -western blotting -PCR/RTPCR/RNASEQ -confocal imaging -2-photon (live cell) imaging -working with genetic mouse models of autism | prior experience in a lab setting is preferable, including familiarity with PCR, western blotting, immunohistochemistry and/or mouse handling. | Center for Integrative Brain Research (CIBR) | |||
| 15 | Immunofluorescence microscopy used to reveal mechanisms of liver disease during HIV/SIV infection | Don |
| No | Basic Science/Bench Research | Liver disease is currently the most common cause of non-AIDS illness and death in developed countries amongst HIV infected people. Indeed, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is more prevalent in HIV infected individuals than in age and lifestyle matched controls, even when the individuals are successfully treated with combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) with undetectable viral levels. In the context of HIV infection, the precise drivers and mechanisms of liver disease are not well defined. The Sodora Laboratory assesses liver changes associated with HIV as well as SIV infection (monkey model for HIV) in the presence and absence of cART. One important way to interrogate liver samples is through the use of immunostaining of fixed tissue sections, looking for specific cell types and proteins, visualized by fluorescence microscopy. Findings to date have determined that during SIV infection T cells accumulate in the liver, around interesting localization and proliferating patterns. The project proposed for the 2021 URM Internship will use immunostaining and fluorescence microscopy to evaluate changes in key immune cells including macrophages, dendritic cells and different T cell subsets in livers of SIV-infected macaques as well as HIV-infected people (samples acquired after death). Furthermore, the project will evaluate how the frequency, location, and activation/proliferation state of these cells is altered by cART treatment. The long-term goal of this project is to use knowledge obtained to identify an immune therapeutic strategy that will reduce incidence and/or severity of liver disease in HIV-infected and cART-treated individuals. | Interns will utilize formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded liver tissue sections on glass slides along with antibodies to identify specific immune cells. These antibodies are coupled to a fluorescent dye to allow for visualization on a microscope. Interns will learn to image the stained slides on a Keyence fluorescence microscope and to analyze the images using ImageJ software. Interns will present the data using graphs and create presentations of their findings. | Interns should be inquisitive and patient with high attention to detail, good note-taking skills, and ability to follow instructions. Those that are visual learners or have photography skills are encouraged to apply. | Center for Global Infectious Disease Research (CGIDR) | |||
| 16 | Studying Genetic Causes of Blindness | Cherry |
| Yes | Basic Science/Bench Research | Our lab studies visual disorders including childhood blindness. We have discovered that a specific gene is involved with a common visual disorder called Macular Degeneration. We have engineered mice to have the same genetic variant that people with the disease have. The goal of the experiments are to understand if anything goes wrong in the visual system of these mice. In particular is anything wrong with the the structure or cell types of the retina -- the part of the visual system that detects light, color, shapes, and movement. The student(s) will work directly with members of the Cherry lab to understand how the gene variant is leading to blindness. | The student(s) will learn how to use computer programs to measure and quantify images of the retina taken by a microscope and the biology of how the visual system works. | We are committed to teaching the students all of the necessary skills to succeed in this project. | Center for Developmental Biology and Regenerative Medicine (CDBRM) | |||
| 17 | Systems cell biology of peroxisomes and infectious disease | John |
| Yes | Basic Science/Bench Research Other: development of data visualization tools | Systems cell biology melds high-throughput experimentation with quantitative analysis and modeling to understand critical processes that contribute to cellular organization and dynamics. Merging technology and computation offers an opportunity to objectively address unsolved cellular mechanisms, and has revealed emergent properties and helped to gain a more comprehensive and fundamental understanding of cell biology. The approaches developed to understand complexity of cells through a systems cell biology approach are broadly applicable in the context of pathogens and host cells responding to infection. Thus, we develop and apply these approaches in yeast to study nuclear organization and organelle biogenesis (nuclear pore complex structure/function and peroxisome biogenesis and function). We extend these approaches in the context of infectious disease, studying nuclear organization and organelle biogenesis in Plasmodium falciparum and trypanosomes. Similarly, network interrogation and modeling are applied to understand the complexity of cellular responses to pathogens. | cloning, high throughput microscopy, lentivirus knockdown, image analysis - there are a couple of projects available that can be tailored to an individual student | Training will be provided onsite, but students should expect a steep learning curve. | Center for Global Infectious Disease Research (CGIDR) | |||
| 18 | Prototype Robotic Devices and Systems to Improve and Accelerate Malaria Research | Alexis |
| Yes | Basic Science/Bench Research Other: development of data visualization tools | Researchers in the Kaushansky lab study host pathogen interactions, with a focus on the malaria. This research has involved isolating the parasite by dissecting mosquitoes by hand. We have built robotic devices to automate this process, and we are excited to use this internship as an opportunity to share what we have learned and continue using engineering and technology to improve and accelerate infectious disease research. | Learn about product design and prototype a device or system to improve malaria research. Gain experience with computer aided design and 3D printing. Explore basic circuitry and micro-controller programming. | Ability to work well independently and collaboratively. Critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Strong work ethic. | Center for Global Infectious Disease Research (CGIDR) | |||
| 19 | WCC Redesign | Tumaini |
| Yes | Behavioral Research | This study compares a typical well child check up visit to a parent coach-led well child check up visit. The new model of well-child care (WCC) is called PARENT (Parent-focused Redesign for WCC Encounters with Newborns, Infants, and Toddlers). The Parent Coach provides anticipatory guidance, psychosocial and social needs screening/referral, and developmental and behavioral surveillance, screening, and guidance at each WCC visit, and is supported by parent-focused pre-visit screening and visit prioritization, a brief, problem-focused clinician encounter for a physical exam and any concerns that require a clinician's attention, and an automated text message parent reminder and education service for periodic, age-specific messages to reinforce key health-related information recommended by Bright Futures national guidelines. The research staff will ask parents/legal guardians questions about their experiences in getting care so that we can compare the two types of well-child care. We will recruit potential study participants at the clinics (over the phone during COVID) and complete the enrollment process and baseline survey the same day. We will conduct follow-up surveys at 6-month and 12-month post enrollment and at the end of survey data collection, we will collect chart review data of the child. | Conducting phone surveys, data entry, and data cleaning. | Some experience working and interacting with parents and families. | Center for Child Health, Behavior and Development (CHBD) | |||
| 20 | Building Respectful and Trusting Research Relationships | Stephanie |
| Yes | Behavioral Research | This project is a qualitative interview study aiming to understand barriers and facilitators for research staff in building trusting relationships with research participants and their families. The project involves empirical and conceptual analyses related to how to improve interactions between research teams and potential participants. | The student may be involved with one or more of the following: qualitative analysis of previously collected interview data; literature review to support manuscript and/or grant development; development of a conceptual framework for building respectful relationships in pediatric research; and ethical analysis of topics related to this project's aims. | No prior experience required, but an interest in bioethics and strong writing skills are preferred. | Treuman Katz Center for Pediatric Bioethics | |||
| 21 | Fit 5 Kids/StepByStep | Jason |
| Yes | Behavioral Research | We have two studies in our lab that students may be able to work with us on. The Fit 5 Kids study & the StepByStep study: Fit 5 Kids - This study evaluates an intervention, called "Fit 5 Kids" (i.e., fit by age 5 years), a preschool curriculum designed to decrease TV viewing/screen time, which we have adapted for Latinx families. The goals are to teach participants to decrease their TV watching, and encourage alternative activities such as family meals and active playtime. StepByStep - We are examining the effectiveness of using activity tracking devices, setting physical activity goals, and leveraging social media to promote the physical activity of adolescent & young adult cancer survivors. Participants will follow a private Instagram page to share physical activity experiences and motivate each other. | Students will learn about the conduct of behavioral interventions that aim to promote healthier lifestyles. Both of these studies have had adaptations to facilitate their conduct during the COVID pandemic, so students would learn about the original design of these studies and the adaptations we have done. | Some experience and/or interest in behavioral research and/or public health. Spanish speaking skills are helpful, but not required. | Center for Child Health, Behavior and Development (CHBD) | |||
| 22 | Treating Parents with ADHD and their Young Children with Telehealth | Mark |
| Yes | Behavioral Research | We are comparing the effectiveness of treating parent ADHD with medication and a child treatment strategy for ADHD symptoms versus a child treatment strategy alone. Research has shown that many children who have ADHD also have a parent who has ADHD. Families can participate if a parent has ADHD that is not being treated with medication and a young child has ADHD symptoms that have not been treated with medication. The child treatment strategy is to provide a therapy called behavioral parent training (BPT) to the parent before recommending treatment of the child with stimulant medication if needed. | Supporting scheduling and running study visits (in person and/or virtual), supporting screening potentially eligible study participants. | Experience working with parents and their children. | Center for Child Health, Behavior and Development (CHBD) | |||
| 23 | ACE Multisite Study of Adolescent & Adult Transitions | Sara |
| Yes | Behavioral Research | It has been repeatedly observed that autism spectrum disorder (ASD) disproportionately affects males relative to females. Although there have been many attempts to explain this bias, no clear answers have emerged because of small sample sizes. This project aims to understand more about gender-related differences in autism by studying behavior, brain structure and function, cognitive abilities, as well as genetics during transition periods from adolescence to adulthood. Once we learn about these sex differences in ASD, we might be able to discover better ways for diagnosing, treatment, and outcomes for individuals with autism. Participants enrolled in the study are between the ages of 12 and 30, with or without a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder. Opportunities for a summer project include examining cognitive, mental health, and language differences in individuals with ASD, compared to their siblings and individuals with typical development. | Behavioral data entry, behavioral and EEG data analysis, development of individual project focus, abstract writing, observing research sessions with participants, literature review, introduction to autism spectrum disorder. | We are looking for individuals who are responsible, self-directed, and comfortable with computers and learning new computer programs. Some experience with individuals with autism, children with developmental delay, or gender diverse children is also preferred. | Center for Child Health, Behavior and Development (CHBD) | |||
| 24 | Retinopathy of Prematurity in Premature Infants | Michelle |
| Yes | Clinical Research | Students will support the goals of the "Handheld Swept Source Optical Coherence Tomography with Angiography Capability as a Tool to Identify Advanced Retinopathy of Prematurity in Premature Infants" Study. Our hypothesis is that an algorithm combining key ROP biomarkers from images acquired with this investigational device can diagnose advanced ROP (referral-warranted ROP)(Ells et al., 2003) with similar or better accuracy than currently accepted screening methods. This study has the following aims: Specific Aim 1: Develop and optimize the handheld swept source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT) device and software for use in identifying ROP pathology in premature infants. Starting with a highly functional prototype, we will use predetermined benchmarks to achieve successful awake preterm infant imaging. Specific Aim 2: Identify and validate SS-OCT and SS-OCT angiography (A) biomarkers of ROP severity. Biomarkers associated with ROP severity will be identified and incorporated into an algorithm to predict referral-warranted ROP. We will validate that algorithm and compare its performance to wide-field retinal fundus photography. The overarching goal of this proposal is to create a novel approach to ROP screening that utilizes innovative handheld OCT technology and angiography methods for improved accuracy, objectivity, and safety over current screening methods. | complete Good Clinical Practices Training complete Human Subject Protections Training learn and implement IRB approved protocol analyze images review medical charts compile data prepare abstract for undergraduate symposium attend research planning meetings learn about continuous process improvement | word processing use of Excel customer service experience consistent schedule | Center for Clinical and Translational Research (CCTR) | |||
| 25 | Levering health information technology to improve coordinated care for children with medical complexity. | Arti |
| Yes | Clinical Research | We will have two projects for students to work on this summer. Project #1: Using a cloud-based care coordination tool to improve team-based, coordinated care for families experiencing language barriers. Project #2: Using a cloud-based care coordination tool to improve team-based, coordinated care for families after hospital discharge. Both projects are focused on reducing disparities in outcomes such as action item completion rates, missed appointments, telehealth access, and readmissions. | Students will participated in: -Review of the literature (but not a systematic review) -Survey data collection -Data cleaning -Participation in qualitative data analysis -Writing an abstract at the end of the summer | -Strong skills in navigating MS tools (Excel, Word, powerpoint) -Qualitative analysis experience would be beneficial -Interest in technology (patient-facing applications), art, and design would be beneficial | Center for Child Health, Behavior and Development (CHBD) | |||
| 26 | Differential Referral Timing For And Patient Outcomes in Bladder Health Concerns | Kathleen |
| Yes | Clinical Research | Urinary complaints, such as incontinence and recurrent UTIs, account for about 40% of new referrals to pediatric urology. While these concerns may not appear serious, they are significant contributors to differentials in quality of life, and differentially impact underrepresented populations; we have performed prior research showing that families in less-affluent areas pay more for diapers (as an example). Anecdotally, fewer patients who are Black or LatinX are referred for these concerns, and fewer follow up and receive the same course of treatment as White patients. This study will investigate the care trajectory of patients and compare Native, LatinX, Black, and Caucasian patients. We will also investigate geographic location and socioeconomic considerations. | The student will be involved in the deign and execution of the project, specifically: identification of key variables, collection of data, construction of an abstract, and ultimately, generation of a manuscript. All of these tasks will be performed with oversight and assistance. | Students must have a willingness to learn, be receptive to constructive criticism, be able to work independently and seek assistance when appropriate, and be willing to meet with PI 30 minutes/week. | Center for Child Health, Behavior and Development (CHBD) | |||
| 27 | Family/caregiver perspectives on quality of communication during their PICU hospitalization and impact of a PICU continuity provider | Katie |
| Yes | Clinical Research | The majority of parents of critically ill children prefer to share decision-making with their physicians. Prior studies have shown that only about half of families of critically ill children reported an understanding of the plan after family-centered rounds or family conferences. Families with limited English proficiency (LEP) were much less likely to understand the plan of care for their critically ill children than their English proficient counterparts. In an effort to improve communication and continuity of care, the Seattle Children’s Hospital created a new provider role, entitled PICU continuity attending, for any patient hospitalized in the PICU for at least 14 days. We have no data to determine whether continuity attending assignment improves family communication. The goal of this qualitative study is to understand whether PICU continuity attending assignment affects the quality of communication between the PICU provider team and family members/caregivers of critically ill children. We will perform a qualitative analysis to report the experiences of family members/caregivers of critically ill children related to communication in the PICU. We will conduct semi-structured interviews with family members/caregivers of 40 patients who are hospitalized in the PICU for at least 14 days. The patients will be divided into four groups – 10 patients with a PICU continuity attending and English proficient caregivers, 10 patients with a PICU continuity attending and LEP caregivers, 10 patients without a PICU continuity attending and have English proficient caregivers, and 10 patients who did not have a PICU continuity attending and have LEP caregivers. Analysts will immerse themselves in the transcripts and perform line-by-line coding in order to identify themes. | 1. Help distribute surveys to families with critically ill children to better understand communication preferences (ongoing QI work that informs current project). Student will learn basic QI principles and gain skills in survey administration and data entry. 2. Help conduct semi-structured interviews. Student will observe (and potentially perform) semi-structured interviews of family members, gaining skills in qualitative interviewing. 3. Participate in qualitative analysis. Student may participate in qualitative analysis of transcripts (if available) and learn qualitative analysis skills. | 1. Good communication skills essential 2. Experience with data entry desired, but not essential | Center for Clinical and Translational Research (CCTR) | |||
| 28 | Mechanisms of Skill Uptake and Maintenance in Psychosocial Treatment for Adolescent ADHD (R21 MH116499) | Margaret |
| Yes | Clinical Research | This project analyzes 1700 audio recordings of family therapy for adolescents with ADHD to detect barriers to and facilitators of positive treatment outcome. We will be analyzing therapist factors, parent factors, and youth factors that predict success in therapy for adolescents with ADHD. | The students will be trained to use a qualitative coding scheme to classify parent and youth statements during therapy into broader categories. They will learn to summarize the data and will be co-authors (with the PI) on a manuscript that summarizes the results of the study. They will be trained to conduct literature reviews, describe the study methodology, and interpret results. | This opportunity is a fit for students who are studying psychology or a related field and have an interest in improving treatments for children and adolescents with mental health disorders. Spanish language skills are a plus because this project was initially conducted in a pan-Latinx community, and many of the recordings are in Spanish. However, Spanish language skills are not necessary. | Center for Child Health, Behavior and Development (CHBD) | |||
| 29 | Identification of Firearm Ownership and Storage in Families of Patients Presenting to a Pediatric Emergency Department with Mental Health Complaints | Neil |
| Yes | Clinical Research | This is a retrospective study examining firearm ownership and storage practices in families presenting to the ED with mental health complaints, as well as differential strategies in identification of this information. It will utilize data extracted from the electronic health record (EHR) as well as a pre-existing research database. Specific study objectives are: 1) To examine rates of identified firearms exposure in children presenting to the Emergency Department with mental health complaints 2) To compare the characteristics of children with firearms exposure presenting to the ED with mental health complaints to those without firearms exposure 3) To examine changes in documented firearms exposure rates over time in the context of changes in interview support tools 4) To compare firearm security data obtained by the mental health team versus research data | The student's primary responsibilities will be in database management and data extraction from the EHR. The student will also be privy to and have the opportunity to contribute to study design and data analysis. The student will have the opportunity to interface with the ED research team and learn about other studies occurring in the ED. | The student will require access to the EHR and have comfort with software applications such as REDCap and Excel. | Center for Clinical and Translational Research (CCTR) | |||
| 30 | The Promoting Resilience in Stress Management (PRISM) Intervention: a multisite randomized control trial in adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes (R01) | Joyce |
| Yes | Clinical Research | The “Promoting Resilience in Stress Management” (PRISM) intervention is a manualized, brief, skills based intervention delivered in 2, 45-60 minute one-on-one sessions, followed by a family meeting and supplemented by booster sessions and a digital app. PRISM was developed from Stress and Coping theory and targets skills in stress-management and mindfulness, goal-setting, positive reframing, and meaning-making. All of these skills are associated with improved patient outcomes in diverse groups of adolescent populations with chronic/serious illness, and findings from a feasibility trial in adolescents with T1D showed PRISM to be highly feasible and desirable in this population. Further, a recent pilot randomized controlled trial among adolescents with cancer suggest PRISM is associated with improved perceptions of resilience, lower psychological distress, and higher QOL. This application proposes to build on our prior experience and fill three critical knowledge gaps: (1) PRISM’s impact on A1C among adolescents with T1D; and (2) PRISM’s impact on diabetes distress, self-reported adherence, and other patient-reported outcomes including resilience and QOL. This funding opportunity seeks to test interventions targeting diabetes distress for impact on glycemic control. Thus, we propose a multi-site randomized controlled trial among N=160 adolescents (n=80 PRISM, n=80 Usual Care; ages 13-18) with the primary trial outcome of glycemic control 6-months post- enrollment. Time-in-range will be evaluated for participants on continuous glucose monitors as an exploratory aim. Secondary outcomes will include diabetes-distress, and patient-reported adherence, resilience, and quality of life. We hypothesize PRISM will promote better glycemic control, improved diabetes distress, and be more costeffective than usual care. This application offers an opportunity to expand the body of knowledge regarding methodologically rigorous and evidence-based interventions for adolescents with T1D. Ultimately, this research has the potential to offer a practical, skills-based curriculum designed to improve outcomes for this high-risk group. | We would be delighted to include the contributions of students to help our team with the following: chart reviews, data cleaning, study participant tracking, data analysis, and literature reviews related to our findings. Students will be included in all of our operational and lab meetings, which occur weekly. | Microsoft Suite, particularly Excel, excellent communication skills via Zoom, Web-ex and email, and willingness to learn! We can train on Redcap and Smartsheet, and EPIC. | Center for Clinical and Translational Research (CCTR) | |||
| 31 | Prevalence of cystic fibrosis related diabetes by race and ethnicity | Amalia |
| Yes | Clinical Research Other: Systematic Review of Scientific Literature (Academic Writing) | Diabetes is known to be more prevalent in black and Hispanic populations in the United States. And there is evidence that diabetes-related outcomes also differ by race and ethnicity. We plan to determine whether these differences in diabetes prevalence and outcomes, by race/ethnicity, are also evident among persons living with cystic fibrosis. | Data handling, including merging variables from different sources and checking for consistency and errors. Basic data analysis, including making tables, simple plots, and computing summary statistics like means and standard deviations. Assistance with statistical testing will be available. | Any course in statistics, could be high school level, would be useful. The ability to manipulate data in any software will be needed: Excel, Stata, R, or SAS, for example. Writing skills are a plus. | Center for Clinical and Translational Research (CCTR) | |||
| 32 | Assessment of potential racial disparities in cystic fibrosis-related, clinical trial participation over the past 20 years | Amalia |
| Yes | Clinical Research Other: Systematic Review of Scientific Literature (Academic Writing) | Persons self-identifying as non-whites were less likely than whites to participate in cystic fibrosis research conducted between 1992 and 1998, as described and published by our group at Seattle Children’s Research Institute. Other differences observed at that time included a higher research participation rate among those with private insurance and among those with lower lung function at enrollment. Since trial participation was found to be associated with slower lung function decline, clinical trial enrollment may have health benefits for participants. We would like to assess whether these trends are still present in more recent cystic fibrosis research. | Data handling, including merging variables from different sources and checking for consistency and errors. Basic data analysis, including making tables, simple plots, and computing summary statistics like means and standard deviations. Assistance with statistical testing will be available. | Any course in statistics, could be high school level, would be useful. The ability to manipulate data in any software will be needed: Excel, Stata, R, or SAS, for example. Writing skills are a plus. | Center for Clinical and Translational Research (CCTR) | |||
| 33 | Migration Heath, Resilience and Multilingual Research Collaborative | Elizabeth |
| Yes | Public Health Research Health Services Research | Migration Heath, Resilience and Multilingual Research Collaborative focuses on community and public-health partnered research primarily with children and families who have experienced migration. Current projects include developing a tool with communities focused on identifying strengths and stressors in family wellbeing, and ongoing work related to supporting public health with the COVID response among immigrants, refugees and migrants in partnership with CDC. | -Qualitative coding -Qualitative analysis -Literature review -Bringing research to policy | None Experience speaking a language other than English is a plus: Spanish, Somali, Arabic | Center for Child Health, Behavior and Development (CHBD) | |||
| 34 | Sleepazoid/SHIP/SOPHOS | Michelle |
| Yes | Public Health Research Health Services Research | Garrison lab is a sleep lab with three active projects. Sleep Health In Preschoolers (SHIP) is examining the SHIP program for its effectiveness at helping behavioral sleep problems in preschoolers. SOPHOS is an extension of SHIP and examines health behaviors like eating and exercise as well as the effect COVID has had on families and their sleep. Sleepazoid is examining the effectiveness of a mind-body awareness exercise and its ability to mitigate the effects media has on sleep in teens. Students would work on 2-3 of these studies in different capacities. Please email elliott.wills@seattlechildrens.org for more information | - Assist staff with participant reminders calls and participants assessment visits - Data management (Both day-to-day with staff and overall concepts with myself) - Device tracking and device data collection - Data cleaning - Mailing of study materials - Literature reviews - Learn and receive hands on experience with Datstat - Experience with study devices and software such as the Actiheart. - Survey entry | (Any level) Previous coursework in public health, psychology, or other relevant fields Very detail oriented Ability to quickly learn new technology | Center for Child Health, Behavior and Development (CHBD) | |||
| 35 | Shared decision-making in pediatrics | Doug |
| Yes | Public Health Research Health Services Research | This is a 2 part study in which we 1) have videotaped about 30 visit between doctors, parents and patients, then interviewed participants about their experiences around the decision-making process, and 2) will be convening focus groups of a second set of doctors and parents to finalize a framework on how to do shared decision-making in pediatrics. | Data analysis, convening and participating in focus groups, manuscript preparation | Experience interacting with research participants | Treuman Katz Center for Pediatric Bioethics | |||
| 36 | SeaSAW Secondary Analysis | Brian |
| Yes | Public Health Research Health Services Research | We would like to have our students conduct some secondary analysis of our SeaSAW study data. SeaSAW was a community based survey project in which we investigated beverage consumptions changes in low income communities before and after the Seattle Sweetened Beverage Tax went into effect. We gathered a lot of other data in the process- height and weight data, attitudes about the tax, etc. We would love to have students conduct analyses on these other data. | Data processing and cleaning Data analysis Interpreting the findings of data analysis | Experience with Microsoft Office software (Word, Excel, etc) Experience with data processing software is preferred, but not required | Center for Child Health, Behavior and Development (CHBD) | |||
| 37 | TIDES & ECHO PATHWAYS | Sheela |
| Yes | Public Health Research Health Services Research | This is part of a large NIH-funded study called ECHO PATHWAYS; the overall aim of this study is to determine how multiple exposures in utero to multiple chemical and non-chemical (i.e. psychosocial) stressors are related to childhood neurodevelopment and airway health. We will be conducting study visits with healthy children ages 4 – 9 over the next several years. We also serve as the Coordinating Center for the TIDES study and manage an extensive longitudinal data set and biorepository. | Examining environmental exposures in relation to child health outcomes in an urban and rural population within Washington State. Students will help with contacting families, obtaining data, and tracking. They will also contribute to answering research study questions related to disparities in environmental exposures and health outcomes. | Intro to Psychology, Sociology, public health, or research methods Basic computer (Word, Excel) skills and experience navigating the internet for research-related projects Some experience with data entry, surveys, preparing and organizing study materials, or website creation/management | Center for Child Health, Behavior and Development (CHBD) | |||
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