Using Zebrafish to Detect Developmentally Neurotoxic Chemicals Research

Using Zebrafish Embryos/Larvae to Assess Developmental and Neurodevelopmental Toxicity

Ecosystems, Human Health Risk Assessment, Safer Chemicals

Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, Office of Research and Development, Safer Chemicals

Research Triangle Park, North Carolina

National Science Foundation Non-Academic Research Internships for Graduate Students (INTERN) Supplemental Funding Opportunity (6 months maximum)

There are tens of thousands of chemicals that are currently in commerce, with hundreds more introduced every year. Many of these chemicals find their way into the environment, and only a small fraction has been adequately assessed for potential risk to humans and the environment. The EPA uses alternative approaches, including small organisms like zebrafish, to screen chemicals for the potential to cause various types of toxicity. One or more of the following research topics could be included: screening chemicals for developmental toxicity, screening chemicals for neurodevelopmental toxicity, developing new behavioral tests, developmental immunotoxicity, lipid analysis of the developing zebrafish, or the interaction of early life stress with chemical exposure.

Goal not to Exceed One Sentence

Goal:  The fellow will use zebrafish embryos/larvae to explore toxicity profiles of selected chemicals or scenarios.

Learning Objectives:

• Reading and interpreting relevant scientific literature
• Hands-on participation in experimental research and data interpretation
• Active participation in meetings of the project team, branch, and division
• Preparing reports, presentations, and summaries of the data
• Opportunity to present research at professional meetings

Authoring manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals

Preferred Skills:

• Strong verbal and writing skills
• Ability to work both as a part of a team and independently
• Knowledge related to biology, chemistry, biochemistry, developmental biology or related field
• Experience working with small fish models would be desirable, but not essential.

Stephanie Padilla (Padilla.stephanie@epa.gov)