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Research

We are part of the Chemistry Department at Yale University.

Quantification of the physics and chemistry of biomolecule interactions inside cells is challenging due to the complex environment, fast timescales of motions, and difficulties in controlling reactions. The unifying theme of our research is the development of new quantitative spectroscopic imaging techniques to elucidate the relationship between function and dynamics of proteins and nucleic acids inside living cells. 

Our research lies at the intersection of traditional chemistry, physics, and biology disciplines, with an emphasis on quantitative physical characterization of biological systems. Our efforts combine elements of physical chemistry (thermodynamics, kinetics, spectroscopy), molecular biology (mutation, proteins, RNA), cell biology (live-cell microscopy, mammalian cell culture, zebrafish model), and theoretical chemistry (simulations and modeling).

Our research is divided into three areas:

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Bio-condensates

How does organization by phase-separation impact cellular activities?

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Whole Organism

How does thermal adaptation and acclimation by organisms change protein behaviors?

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Protein Folding

What is the physicochemical code to protein folding? Do classic folding principles translate to cells?

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