Single Molecule Biophysics with Optical Tweezers

We study DNA–protein interactions in genome organization, replication and repair using single-molecule optical tweezers. Our goal is to connect molecular binding and activity with changes in DNA mechanics and organization.

Our four-trap LUMICKS platform combines optical manipulation with confocal fluorescence microscopy and microfluidics. This allows us to control individual DNA molecules, introduce proteins or different biochemical environments, and relate fluorescence observations to mechanical measurements.

Together with molecular-biology collaborators, we investigate transcription factors and proteins that organize and maintain the genome. Collaborative research also addresses DNA topology and the processing of stalled topoisomerase II complexes.

We welcome projects that benefit from combining controlled molecular manipulation with direct observation of DNA-associated proteins.