Research Activities Biophysics

Understanding the dynamics and evolution of biomolecular networks is a central problem in biology. From a physics perspective, these topics present many intriguing open questions: Can one follow evolutionary trajectories step-by-step? What constrains these trajectories? Selective pressures are not constant, which is particularly relevant for regulatory functions. How does this correlate with mutational steps? Does gene expression noise affect fitness?

We tackle these questions employing a wide array of techniques. Key elements are synthetic biology, experimental evolution, time-lapse fluorescence microscopy, and micro-fluidics. With an interest in generic questions, we focus on simple model systems. Our approach is measurement and data analysis intensive, combined with computer modeling.

In addition, we study the interplay between protein folding and molecular chaperones. Optical tweezers enable us to investigate this interplay at the level of a single molecule, revealing the dynamics and protein structural changes.

Past research topics include single-molecule studies on DNA packaging by bacterial viruses, and carbon nanotube-based electronics.