Molecular Motion and Sensing
We study the modalities by which biomolecular systems, at all scales of life, sense and respond to their environment. By determining the fundamental principles of these processes, we aim to understand and control the behaviour of living systems and to create novel biosensing technologies. New technologies are needed to answer questions in biology that cannot be addressed with current tools. We are advancing the frontiers of spatial resolution with light microscopy, temporal resolution with millisecond hydrogen/deuterium-exchange mass spectrometry, and sensitivity with novel label-free detection methods.
Grand challenges in biology, health and disease require conceptual advances in our understanding of how living systems process and respond to information. We are engaged in research and innovative technology development to define these behaviours and how they are connected between all levels of biological complexity.
By combining biosensing and mechanistic modelling we will achieve a deeper understanding and ability to engineer living systems. The interplay between scientific exploration and the creation of novel technology will generate new tools, such as quantum optics based sensing, protein spectroscopy and switchable antibodies. These will provide insights that will drive future advances, such as quantum biosensors and responsive protein drugs for personalised medicine.