Research
We are interested in different types of cellular and molecular movements, from the swimming of flagellated bacteria to the diffusion of proteins in solution and in membranes. We use different model systems (fly embryos, magnetotactic bacteria) and a number of experimental and computational approaches to address questions related to the influence of Brownian motions on cellular processes. Our research is by design interdisciplinary and collaborative. We build most of our microscopes.
Scroll down for more information on our current areas of research and favourite experimental techniques.
Current Projects
Diffusion in Crowded Media
We are looking at the effect of crowding on diffusion processes
Morphogen Gradients
Using the fruit fly embryos as a model system, we investigate the formation and interpretation of morphogen gradients
Magnetotactic Bacteria
We are studying the swimming motion of magnetotactic bacteria placed in magnetic fields
Techniques
Fluorescence correlation spectroscopy
The best way to catch fast particles in situ.
Single Particle Tracking
Optimal for characterizing the dynamics of heterogeneous populations of particles.
Lightsheet microscopy
A great way to achieve background-free fluorescence imaging.