Undergraduate Research Opportunities
Are you an undergraduate student excited about stem cell biology, regenerative medicine, or pancreatic islet transplantation? The Odorico Research Lab is committed to mentoring the next generation of scientists through immersive, hands-on research experiences.
We welcome highly motivated and organized undergraduates to join our dynamic research team, where you’ll contribute meaningfully to ongoing projects while gaining valuable skills that extend beyond the classroom.
What You’ll Learn
As a student researcher in the Odorico Research Lab, you’ll have the opportunity to:
- Develop Core Wet Lab Skills
Learn and practice essential techniques including lab maintenance and inventory, cell culture, microscopy, immunostaining, ELISA, and flow cytometry under the guidance of experienced researchers. - Work on Cutting-Edge Projects
Contribute to projects at the forefront of stem cell and diabetes research. Work with pluripotent stem cells, develop scaffolds for islet encapsulation, and explore strategies to improve islet survival and function. You’ll be paired with a project that fits your interests and experience level. - Gain Experience in Animal Handling.
Students may receive training in rodent-based diabetes models, including safe handling, blood glucose monitoring, and daily care. All work is conducted under strict regulatory guidelines and ethical standards, ensuring animal welfare while advancing our understanding of disease and therapies.
- Participate in the Scientific Process
From literature review and hypothesis generation to data analysis and interpretation, you’ll be involved in multiple stages of the research process. Advanced students may have the opportunity to present their work at poster or podium sessions and to co-author publications. - Build Professional and Academic Skills
We emphasize the importance of scientific communication. Students are encouraged to participate in lab meetings, journal clubs, lab tours for community partners, and scientific writing and presentation opportunities.
Who Should Apply?
We’re looking for curious, dependable, and proactive students-preferably freshmen, sophomores, or juniors-who have a strong interest in biomedical research. Prior lab experience is helpful but not required. Strong organizational skills are essential. Our lab provides mentorship tailored to each student’s goals and level of experience.
How to Get Involved
If you’re interested in joining our team, please send Dr. Odorico and/or Dr. Chamberlain a brief statement of interest, your resume or CV, and your unofficial transcript. We typically accept students during the fall, spring, and summer terms.
Contacts:
Jon Odorico, MD
Professor
(608) 263-0388
jon@surgery.wisc.edu
Connie S. Chamberlain, PhD
Principal Scientist
(608) 217-1560
chamberlain@surgery.wisc.edu
Scholarship Opportunities
Undergraduates engaged in research are encouraged to apply for campus-wide scholarships that support their training and academic development:
- Sophomore Research Fellowship – Provides sophomore students with funding to pursue a faculty-mentored research project. SOPHOMORE RESEARCH FELLOWSHIP – Undergraduate Academic Awards – UW–Madison
- Hilldale Undergraduate/Faculty Research Fellowship – Supports collaborative research between undergraduates and faculty with funding for both student and mentor. HILLDALE UNDERGRADUATE/FACULTY RESEARCH FELLOWSHIP – Undergraduate Academic Awards – UW–Madison
- Biochemistry Undergraduate Research Award – Offers financial support for biochemistry majors conducting independent research projects. Scholarships & Awards – Department of Biochemistry – UW–Madison