Overview of our research efforts      A current trend in materials development is to employ biological molecules and/or principles that are inspired by biology. Such materials are sometimes referred to as "biomimetic," indicating they have characteristics such as self-assembly, molecular recognition, specific chemical responses, and complex molecular architecture which lead to unique structural and/or functional characteristics. Chemically controlled biomimetic surfaces are essential components of biosensors, bioelectronics, biocatalytic systems, and many diagnostic devices.      Biomolecular materials thus influence diverse applications such as health care, environmental pollution monitoring, agriculture, and chemical manufacturing. An underlying need for these applications of biotechnology is the characterization and control of biomolecules at interfaces.   Please browse the projects listed on the right.

Projects   Supported model membranes Hybrid bilayers     High-res structure    Cell membranes mimics    Metrology for Tissue Engineering    Protein structure-function    DNA transport in pores Polymer-protein interactions Bacteriorhodopsin    Optical probes & simulations    Modeling infrared spectra    Kinetics of self-assembly    Nonlinear optics Statistical mechanics MD simulations    Sensing, screening, and enzyme applications     Metal ion sensors    Chemical/biological warfare agents High-throughput screening Enzyme electrodes