Research on GLP-1 Medications
Are you interested in the science of the “GLP-1s” (like Ozempic) and excited to get involved in biomedical research?
Project description
Are you interested in the science of the “GLP-1s” (like Ozempic) and excited to get involved in biomedical research? A new study led by Drs. Elizabeth Mietlicki-Baase, Katherine Balantekin, and Leonard Epstein is exploring how hydration impacts the side effects caused by GLP-1-based medications. They are seeking reliable undergraduates of any major to assist in this research project. Students must be able to work at least 6 hours per week in the lab on South Campus, and morning availability is essential.
If you are interested in applying for this opportunity, please email Dr. Elizabeth Mietlicki-Baase (em1@buffalo.edu). In your email, please include your resume and your Spring 2026 availability. The research team is especially looking to recruit undergraduate research assistants who are also interested in helping on this project through the summer
Project outcome
At the end of the research project, the student can be involved with presenting a poster at a local research day event.
Project details
| Length of commitment | Longer than a semester (about 6-9 months) |
| Start time | Spring, Summer |
| In-person, remote, or hybrid? | In-person |
| Level of collaboration | The student will interface with a lab manager, PIs, and other students working on this project. |
| Benefits | Potential academic credit |
| Who is eligible | Sophomores Juniors Seniors |
Core partners
- Dr. Katherine Balantekin. Website https://publichealth.buffalo.edu/exercise-and-nutrition-sciences/faculty-and-staff/faculty-directory/balantek.html
- Dr. Leonard Epstein. Website https://medicine.buffalo.edu/faculty/profile.html?ubit=lhenet
- Dr. Elizabeth Mietlicki-Baase. Website http://sphhp.buffalo.edu/exercise-and-nutrition-sciences/faculty-and-staff/faculty-directory/em1.html
Project mentor
Elizabeth G. Mietlicki-Baase
Assistant Professor
Exercise and Nutrition Sciences
Start the project
- Email the project mentor using the contact information above to express your interest and get approval to work on the project. (Here are helpful tips on how to contact a project mentor.)
- After you receive approval from the mentor to start this project, click the button to start the digital badge. (Learn more about ELN's digital badge options.)
Preparation activities
Once you begin the digital badge series, you will have access to all the necessary activities and instructions. Your mentor has indicated they would like you to also complete the specific preparation activities below. After you’re approved to begin the project, your mentor will send the relevant materials. Please reference this when you get to Step 2 of the Preparation Phase.
- Meet with lab manager to understand responsibilities of the project.
- Take relevant trainings in research ethics and human research.
Keywords
exercise, nutrition, GLP-1, ozempic, medication, obesity, hydration, biology, pharmacology