OUR MISSION

Proteins are key building blocks of biological systems. Our goal is to understand structure-function relationships of mechanoresponsive proteins and self-assembled protein-based materials. Besides obtaining a fundamental mechanistic understanding, we aim at the molecularly controlled bottom-up synthesis of self-healing and self-reporting 2D and 3D materials. Possible applications include hydrogels for cell culture as well as smart materials for sensing and medical diagnostics. Learn more about our ongoing research activities and publications.

OUR APPROACH

We use a multifaceted and integrative approach to identify mechanoresponsive proteins in biological systems, characterize them, equip them with additional functionality and finally utilize them for material synthesis. We employ a wide range of techniques, ranging from protein engineering and peptide synthesis, single-molecule and bulk mechanical methods, optical spectroscopy and cell culture. This holistic approach allows us to synthesize our molecules and materials, characterize them over all relevant length scales and test their potential application. Learn more about the methods used in the BiOM department and the available equipment.

OUR VALUES

To reach our goals, we focus on collaboration and communication by openly sharing ideas, protocols and data within the BiOM department and the scientific community. We are a diverse crowd and have collaborations all over the world to broaden our expertise and learn new ideas. We are working together to be a place where we can be ourselves, share our experiences, listen to and learn from each other and do our best work. We are equally committed to performing exciting high-quality research and contributing to an open and inclusive scientific community. Check our BSc and MSc projects as well as open PhD and PostDoc positions if you want to become part of our department.