Dr. John Pollock's research lab at Duquesne University focuses on understanding how pain is processed differently in male and female rats at a molecular level. By studying specific genes and their variations, the lab aims to uncover why treatments for pain relief can vary based on sex, which could lead to more effective therapies for chronic pain and reduce reliance on opioids. Undergraduates will engage in hands-on research using advanced techniques to explore this topic further.

David J Lampe's research lab at Duquesne University focuses on combating malaria by engineering bacteria that can live in mosquitoes and help prevent the transmission of malaria parasites. The lab is developing new bacterial strains that do not have antibiotic resistance traits, aiming to make them safe and effective for release into the environment. By studying how these bacteria interact with mosquito gut microbiota, the lab seeks to enhance the natural defenses against malaria while ensuring that the bacteria persist in the wild without disrupting local ecosystems.