Chemical & Biological Engineering Research

Discover, formulate and manufacture therapies made from DNA/RNA, proteins, nanoparticles, and cells. By understanding biomolecule structures and therapeutic function, we can predict how therapies might interact with biological barriers within the human body to improve drug delivery in different tissues and organs. We also use computational simulations to study a variety of components, including blood flow to better understand and treat disorders, such as Sickle Cell disease.

Model biological systems and their components to understand how they function and perform. Then use synthetic biology to design new biological parts, devices and systems or re-design existing living systems. Put together, we can engineer bacteria for bioremediation, develop technologies for biocomputing, and understand how microbes in the gut interact to promote healthy gut function.

Design and engineer protein structures to create new or improved enzymes, antibodies, and molecules. With innovative protein function using both experimental and computational approaches, we can develop new antibodies as anti-cancer therapeutics, or enzymes for bio-catalysis.

Design metabolic pathways within living organisms, including plants, to optimize the production of desired substances. We can use metabolic engineering to produce therapeutics, biofuels, flavor and fragrance molecules, and chemical compounds.