Psychoneuroimmunology Research Exploration Program (PREP)
BeCOME A SUMMER RESEARCH INTERN IN OUR LAB!
WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT HOW SOCIAL EXPERIENCE IMPACTS HEALTH? JOIN US THIS SUMMER!
The Social Neuroscience and Health lab (SNH lab) at the University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill invites you to apply to our summer internship program in Psychoneuroimmunology (PNI). We intend to use this program to recruit a culturally and socially diverse class of interns to assist with summer research and learn more about the field of psychoneuroimmunology. The application for this program is due on April 5th. To apply, please fill out this form. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to Natalie at nantenucci@unc.edu
(application form: https://forms.gle/3F3Uzt4UdDCU4CyQ8 )
What is Psychoneuroimmunology (PNI)?
One primary focus of our research is to learn about how our social world influences the way our brains and immune systems work. To assess the connections between the brain and social experience, we use neuro-imaging methods (fMRI) to look at how brain activity may change relating to social tasks. To assess the immune response to the social world, we use bio-sampling methods, such as blood draws, to monitor how levels of immune proteins change in response to social tasks. Overall, we hope that our work contributes to the understanding of how social experience can impact a person's health.
What is the Psychoneuroimmunology Research Exploration Program (PREP)?
The PREP program is supported by an award from the National Science Foundation to support four summer interns in the Social Neuroscience and Health lab at the University of North Carolina- Chapel Hill. The program is intended to give students exposure to the growing field of psychoneuroimmunology. Summer interns will gain experience running human subject research studies within our lab. As research assistants, you will gain experience implementing study protocols, collecting survey and biological data, and learning more about the logistics of running human participant studies. This program will offer interns the opportunity to work collaboratively with graduate students and other research assistants at UNC. We plan to host social and research events to forge a strong community throughout the program. Additionally, interns will attend two weekly meetings which focus on scientific research and professional development skills. Interns will have regular, one-on-one meetings with their mentors throughout the program. Mentors will work with interns to create and present research posters.
What is the time commitment and compensation for the program?
The program is scheduled to be Monday, June 3rd- Friday, July 26th. Throughout the eight week program, interns will work from 25-30 hours per week. This is a fully in-person internship and interns will be expected to be available weekday mornings/afternoons. Interns admitted into the program will receive a $3,000 stipend.
Are all students eligible?
Graduating seniors are not eligible for this program. Diverse students from UNC are welcome to apply, but priority will be given to non-UNC students.
Is research experience required?
No, no prior research experience is required. We intend this program to be geared towards interns with little to no prior research experience. Some of the questions on the application ask you to tell us about skills you have developed through your coursework, outside jobs, and extracurricular activities. Some skills to consider highlighting when describing your experiences are: Teamwork and collaboration, Leadership, Mentoring/Teaching, Project Management, Independent Learning, Clear and concise writing, Presentation skills/public speaking, Data organization/management, Problem solving, etc.
When will program decisions be made?
We plan to send out interview requests on Wednesday, April 10th. Interviews will be scheduled for Friday, April 12th and Monday, April 15th. Admission decisions should be released on Monday, April 15th.
Does the program offer housing and/or relocation costs?
Unfortunately, this program cannot offer housing or cover relocation costs.
Interns who would need to relocate can consider finding a summer sublease in the area or taking advantage of the University of North Carolina’s Guest Housing.
The university’s guest housing allows students to choose between a shared room ($26/night) or a individual room in a shared apartment ($52/night). Guest housing is offered on a first come first serve basis. For more information on this, contact Natalie at nantenucci@unc.edu.
Summer subleases are most readily available on Facebook. Currently, there are many options in the $600-800 range with a few more expensive options for $1000-1200. Many of these locations are in walking distance to campus and/or on bus lines (all buses in the city are free).
I do not need to relocated, but I will be commuting. Is there parking?
There are several parking garages around UNC’s campus that can be utilized for pay. Additionally, there are commuter lots and community buses that tend to be more affordable options. Please reach out to Natalie (nantenucci@unc.edu) if you have questions about which option is best for you.
What if I have more questions before applying?
Please reach out to the SNH Lab Manager, Natalie, at nantenucci@unc.edu