Chromatin organization and dynamics, HP1 proteins, Nucleocytoplasmic transport
Centrosomes and Spindles, Actin bundling, Crosslinked cytoskeletal networks, Cytoplasmic flows
Swimming and proliferating bacterial colonies, Linked cytoskeletons in tissues, Viscoelastic deformations
Colloidal chiral fluids, Magnetically driven vortlets, Rotating membrane inclusions
PDEs in complex geometries, Slender bodies in fluid, Collision-resolution, Inference techniques
To transform empirical observation to theoretical understanding, we apply a multi-faceted approach:
We begin by gathering high-quality data through experiments, performed either in-house or by our collaborators. This step is critical for identifying patterns, proposing hypotheses, and pinpointing the key constituents driving the biological phenomenon.
Using state-of-the-art computational tools and high-performance computing resources, we translate our observations into detailed simulations. These allow us to explore complex, multi-scale phenomena with biologically-relevant particle numbers.
Insights from microscopic simulations are distilled into coarse-grained models that encapsulate the core mechanisms of the systems under investigation. These models strike a balance between complexity and interpretability, enabling robust predictions and theoretical advancements.
We rigorously analyze both simulations and models to uncover new insights, identify critical parameters, and validate results against experiments. The latter often involves advanced statistical methods, machine learning techniques, and collaboration with domain experts.
By studying how specific biological systems function and developing appropriate methods, we often gain insights into broader biological and physical principles.
Our paper about the physical consequences of sperm gigantism is published in Nature Physics and featured in the New York Times.
Our paper about dynamical arrest in defect-free active nematics and the consequences of defect proliferation is published in Phys. Rev. Research.
Our paper about the mechanics of the bacterial flagellar motor and its ultrasensitive response to external cues is published in Nature Physics.
Biophysical Modeling and CCB are hiring! We are looking for excellent postdoc candidates (apply here).
