Patrick Oakes

Patrick Oakes, PhD is an Associate Professor of Cell & Molecular Physiology at Loyola University Chicago's Stritch School of Medicine. His research focuses on cellular biophysics, particularly how mechanical signals regulate cell behavior through the cytoskeleton. He combines microscopy, micropatterning, computational modeling, and optogenetics to study adhesion, migration, and mechanosensing.

Research interests include mechanical interactions in fundamental processes like cell division, tissue formation, and force generation. The Oakes Lab investigates cytoskeletal dynamics and contractility mechanisms, with applications in understanding disease-related cellular mechanics.

Key methodologies include high-resolution imaging, quantitative analysis of actin/myosin networks, and optical control of cellular components. The lab's work bridges traditional biology with cutting-edge quantitative approaches to uncover principles governing cellular mechanobiology.

Contact information: Office CTRE 516, Health Science Campus, 2160 S 1st Ave, Maywood, IL 60153. Email: poakes@luc.edu.