Using fluorescence and imaging approaches to explore and develop new technologies for quantifying biomarkers and disease targets in biological samples.

Core research performed in the Molecular Binding Characterization group of Diagnostics Research.

Biophysical and biochemical approaches to studying membrane-protein interactions and membrance remodeling phenomena, particularly Drp1 and its adaptor proteins, responsible for driving mitochondrial fission in humans.

Fluorescence fluctuation spectroscopy using two-photon laser excitation. The emphasis in our lab was the development of new techniques and protocols, so that we could use fluorescence spectroscopy to ask new and exciting biological questions. I’ve conducted feasibility studies, envisioned potential issues, and developed processes and controls to surmount those issues. The overall goal of the research is to develop a better understanding of cell mechanisms by quantifying protein-protein and… Show more Fluorescence fluctuation spectroscopy using two-photon laser excitation. The emphasis in our lab was the development of new techniques and protocols, so that we could use fluorescence spectroscopy to ask new and exciting biological questions. I’ve conducted feasibility studies, envisioned potential issues, and developed processes and controls to surmount those issues. The overall goal of the research is to develop a better understanding of cell mechanisms by quantifying protein-protein and protein-DNA/RNA interactions using a statistical technique called brightness analysis. We conducted experiments in solution, in living cells, and in the intermediate environment of cell free systems. I collaborated on a multiple-laboratory, multiple-university project, applying fluorescence fluctuation spectroscopy techniques to the study of an HIV-1 immune activity protein. I co-authored five peer-reviewed papers, co-wrote two book chapters with my advisor, acted as primary editor for group members’ publications, and contributed to the writing of grant proposals. I also mentored newcomers and visiting researchers with their projects in our laboratory. Show less

Science of Complex Networks Group – Dr. Albert-László Barabási • Characterized minimum spanning trees on scale-free networks via simulations to determine efficiency and scalability of real (e.g., metabolic, communication) networks resulting in a publication• Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU) project initially, continued as senior thesis research and resulted in a publication

Nonlinear Dynamics Group – Dr. John F. Lindner • Modeled a global class of perturbations to Abelian sandpile automata with possible application for data protection and encryption; resulted in a publication.