Light and electricity interface with living systems in a variety of ways: The absorption of light is the crucial first step in photosynthesis. Neurons and other excitable cells communicate through electrical signals along their membranes and at synapses. Electron transport in the mitochondrial membrane is an integral part of respiration.
 

Our research group is interested in understanding how the human body responds to electromagnetic stimuli.  How are the physical principles that cells harness to convert electrochemical and photochemical signals into biological function? And what happens to the electrome as cells become diseased or dysfunctional? As scientists, we employ a molecular approach to understand these questions. As engineers, we seek to use this knowledge to develop therapeutic and diagnostic paradigms for various diseases. Working at the interface of biochemistry, cell biology and physical chemistry helps us empower the emergence of both noninvasive 'electroceuticals' for disease treatment, and develop electromagnetic biosensing paradigms.