Biological systems use complex macromolecular nanostructure networks to mediate a range of cellular functions, such as biomolecule synthesis, signal transduction, and gene expression and regulation, all with high efficiency and specificity. Many of these macromolecular systems have evolved through the spontaneous self-assembly of components into highly organized spatial structures. Mimicking these structures outside of the cell requires methods that offer nanoscale control over the organization of individual network components. We aim to apply the self-assembled molecular scaffolds to the organization of biomolecular networks with the intention of understanding fundamental mechanisms for biochemical cascade reactions as well as developing novel regulatory biocircuits. Research themes in our lab include:
Synthetic and Bio-Mimetic Nanoreactors
Spatially Interactive and Regulatory Biomolecular Network
Molecular circuits for sensing and diagnosis
More information can be viewed at Dr. Fu’s lab website.
Keywords/Areas of Study: Bionanotechnology, self-assembly, nanobiosensing, nanomedicine, biochemistry
Minimum Requirements: Students will be asked to complete laboratory safety training and laser safety training upon joining the laboratory. You will be taught all of the technical skills needed for the project, however, basic laboratory experience is preferred.
Hourly Time Commitment (per week): 10 – 20 hours per week, hours will be determined depending on if the research is for course credit, pay, or a volunteer opportunity.
Length of Commitment: No fewer than two semesters, prefer a long-term research commitment more than one year.
Start Date: Ongoing
Modality: Face-to-face
Type of Opportunity:
- Credit- or course-based (e.g., independent study, capstone project)
- Paid (e.g., Federal Work Study, funded research assistant)
- Volunteer (e.g., research assistant)
Contact Faculty Lead:
Jinglin Fu
Professor
Department of Chemistry
Contact: jinglin.fu@rutgers.edu
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