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Erin SchumanView profile

Research Professor

• Neuroscience
• Cell Biology
• Molecular Biology
• +3 more

Erin Schuman is a Director at the Max Planck Institute for Brain Research in Frankfurt, leading the Department of Synaptic Plasticity. She holds a BA in Psychology from the University of Southern California (1985) and a PhD in Neuroscience from Princeton University (1990). Her research focuses on the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying synaptic function, emphasizing protein synthesis and degradation in neurons. Key contributions include discovering local protein synthesis in dendrites (1996), developing BONCAT/FUNCAT techniques for tracking protein synthesis, and studying synaptic diversity via proteomics. Schuman has been recognized with prestigious awards, including the Körber Prize (2024) and Brain Prize (2023). She has mentored numerous students and postdocs, advancing understanding of neurodevelopmental disorders and neural circuitry. Her lab uses zebrafish models to explore social behavior and employs advanced imaging and proteomic methods. Education: BA Psychology (USC, 1985), PhD Neuroscience (Princeton, 1990) Key Roles: Director at Max Planck (2009–), HHMI Investigator (2004–2010) Techniques: BONCAT/FUNCAT, single-cell sequencing, super-resolution microscopy

Richard TaylorView profile

Research Fellow

• Nanophotonics
• Biological Nanotechnology
• Optical Microscopy
• +4 more

Richard Taylor is a Research Fellow at the Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light, specializing in nanophotonics and interferometric scattering microscopy (iSCAT). He holds a Master's (1st Class Honors) in Physics from the University of Birmingham (2009) and a PhD from the University of Cambridge (2013), where his doctoral work focused on plasmonic nanoparticles and led to a patent for plasmonic junctions in surface-enhanced spectroscopy. Since 2013, he has worked in Prof. Vahid Sandoghdar's group, developing iSCAT microscopy for live-cell applications and became a Humboldt Postdoctoral Fellow in 2015. His research interests include visualizing nanoscale biological dynamics, particularly membrane organization and cellular function. He has pioneered tools like nanofluidic delivery systems for precise molecular manipulation in live cells. His work bridges plasmonics, microscopy innovation, and single-molecule biophysics. Education: BSc (Hons), Physics, University of Birmingham, 2009 PhD in Nanophotonics, University of Cambridge, 2013 Key research contributions include high-precision protein tracking, iSCAT microscopy development, and SERS-based analysis of nanoparticle clusters. He co-organized the inaugural international workshop on iSCAT microscopy in 2020, advancing scientific outreach and collaboration. Awards: Humboldt Postdoctoral Fellowship (2015) Grants/Advising: Not explicitly listed; focus on experimental and theoretical nanoparticle systems. His lab develops microscopy tools for studying biological systems at unprecedented spatiotemporal resolution, with applications in biophysics, nanomedicine, and materials science.

Femius KoenderinkView profile

Professor

• Nanophotonics
• Plasmonics
• Metamaterials
• +4 more

Prof. Femius Koenderink is a prominent academic in nanophotonics and plasmonics, serving as a Professor at the University of Amsterdam and Group Leader at AMOLF, a leading research institute. His research focuses on resonant nanophotonics, metamaterials, plasmonic systems, and quantum optics. He leads the Resonant Nanophotonics group at AMOLF, founded in 2008, which explores subwavelength resonators, nanoscale light manipulation, and hybrid photonic-plasmonic systems. Education: PhD in Experimental Physics (Cum Laude, University of Amsterdam, 2003), Masters in Applied Mathematics and Physics (both Cum Laude, Utrecht University). He has held academic positions since 2008, including Department Head roles at AMOLF. Research Interests: Controlling single photons, plasmonic metamaterials, dielectric nanophotonics, and nanoscale optical metrology. Key projects include developing metasurface-based devices, plasmonic lasers, and quantum optics platforms. His work bridges fundamental physics with applications in sensing, energy, and optoelectronics. Selected Achievements: Over 150 peer-reviewed publications, NWO grants (Veni, Vidi, Vici), and prestigious awards like the ACS Photonics Lectureship. He teaches advanced nanophotonics courses and supervises a team of PhD students/postdocs. His group’s innovations include novel plasmonic lasers, hybrid cavity-antenna systems, and nano-optical sensors. Labs/Teams: Resonant Nanophotonics Group at AMOLF, collaborating with institutions globally. Active in editorial roles (ACS Photonics, Physical Review A) and academic committees (NWO, Dutch Physical Society).

Keith LidkeView profile

Professor

• Atomic, Molecular, and Optical Physics
• Biophysics
• Fluorescence Imaging
• +4 more

Keith Lidke is a Professor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of New Mexico (UNM). His research focuses on advancing fluorescence microscopy techniques to study cellular dynamics at molecular scales. Key areas include Atomic, Molecular, and Optical Physics and Biophysics , with a primary emphasis on Fluorescence Imaging , Single Particle Tracking , and Superresolution techniques for analyzing protein-protein interactions in living cells. Education: Dr. Lidke earned his PhD from the University of Minnesota in 2002. His lab develops technologies such as fluorescence superresolution , single-particle tracking , and high-speed hyperspectral microscopy to address biophysical questions about cellular structures and dynamics. Research highlights include creating MicroscopeControl.jl (Julia-based microscopy hardware control) and SMITE (Single Molecule Imaging Toolbox Extraordinaire in MATLAB). These tools enable precise imaging and analysis of molecular interactions in complex biological systems.

Eric van GenderenView profile

Researcher

• Electron Diffraction
• Protein Structure
• MicroED
• +2 more

Eric van Genderen is a Scientist at the Paul Scherrer Institute, specializing in electron diffraction and structural biology. His work focuses on developing methods for protein structure determination. Research Interests: His expertise includes 3D electron diffraction (3D-ED/MicroED), machine learning applications for diffraction data, and protein nanocrystal analysis. Current projects investigate hydrogen storage nanomaterials and computational refinement techniques. Publications: Recent work demonstrates advances in AI-driven diffraction phasing, detector technology, and peptide engineering. Publications emphasize interdisciplinary approaches to structural analysis. Laboratories: Leads hardware development for electron diffractometers at the Laboratory for Multiscale Bioimaging. Facilities include specialized TEMs with cryo-stages and hybrid detectors. Advising: Supervises Master's students in projects related to diffraction classification algorithms and nanocomposite characterization.

Eric BetzigView profile

Professor

• Super-Resolution Microscopy
• Cell Biology
• Biophysics
• +5 more

Eric Betzig is a Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) Investigator and Professor of Cell Biology, Development, and Physiology. His research focuses on advancing microscopy technologies to study biological systems at high spatiotemporal resolution. He leads a lab pioneering innovations like lattice light-sheet microscopy and super-resolution imaging, enabling real-time observation of dynamic cellular processes in living organisms. His work bridges physics, cell biology, and biophysics to decode complex biological phenomena. Research interests include developing imaging tools to visualize subcellular dynamics, organelle interactions, and cellular mechanisms in multicellular contexts. Betzig’s contributions have revitalized microscopy as a cornerstone of biological discovery, particularly in studying live tissues and embryos. His Nobel Prize in Physics (2015) recognizes breakthroughs in super-resolution microscopy. Key collaborative applications span immunology, neurobiology, and developmental biology, with studies on T-cell dynamics, endocytic pathways, and ER organization. Articles emphasize high-resolution imaging techniques and their application to unravel cellular processes like actin-myosin interactions and Huntingtin aggregate formation. Awards include the Nobel Prize and HHMI Investigator status. Betzig’s lab continues to address challenges in data analysis and large-scale imaging, fostering interdisciplinary approaches to biological discovery.

• Super-Resolution Microscopy
• Cardiac Physiology
• Nanoscale Biology
• +3 more

David Baddeley, PhD, is affiliated with the Yale School of Medicine at Yale University. His research focuses on advancing super-resolution microscopy techniques and applying them to study cellular structures, particularly in cardiac and neuronal systems. He holds a PhD from the University of Heidelberg (2007) and an MSc from the University of Auckland (2003). Research interests include nanoscale imaging of protein clusters, cardiac excitation-contraction coupling, and the development of integrated microscopy platforms. His work bridges biophysics, cell biology, and biomedical engineering, with a focus on understanding molecular organization in health and disease. Key publications highlight innovations in super-resolution microscopy, 3D cellular imaging, and the analysis of cardiac tissue structure. Collaborations with colleagues like Joerg Bewersdorf and Karla Neugebauer underscore interdisciplinary approaches to imaging challenges.

Peter UnrauView profile

Professor

• RNA Chemistry
• RNA Evolution
• RNA World Hypothesis
• +5 more

Peter J. Unrau is a Professor in the Department of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry at Simon Fraser University (SFU), Canada. His research focuses on RNA biochemistry, particularly the RNA World hypothesis and RNA catalytic activities. He leads the Unrau Lab, which investigates RNA polymerization, ribozyme evolution, and fluorogenic RNA aptamer technologies like RNA Mango for RNA detection and imaging. He holds a B.Sc. in Physics/Mathematics from McMaster University (1992) and a Ph.D. in Theoretical Physics from MIT (1996), transitioning to RNA research post-doctorally at the Whitehead Institute. He is a Michael Smith Foundation Senior Scholar and Faculty of 1000 member. His lab develops tools such as fluorogenic aptamers (Mango/Bea/Peach) for live-cell RNA tracking and rapid viral detection. Notable achievements include isolating the first RNA nucleotide synthase ribozyme and advancing processive RNA polymerization systems. He teaches graduate courses in MBB (e.g., MBB 806, MBB 803) and contributes to SFU’s research infrastructure, including facilities like the Tissue Culture Facility and Microscopy Lab. His work bridges biochemistry, molecular biology, and biotechnology with implications for diagnostics and understanding life’s origins.

Jerome MertzView profile

Professor

• Biomedical Optics
• Microscopy Development
• Volumetric Imaging
• +5 more

Jerome Mertz is a Professor in the Department of Biomedical Engineering at Boston University, where he leads the Biomicroscopy Lab developing novel optical techniques for biological imaging. His research focuses on advancing microscopy capabilities for deep tissue and high-speed applications. Research innovations include: Advanced volumetric imaging techniques for capturing dynamic biological processes Adaptive optical systems for aberration correction in complex media Novel approaches for imaging through scattering tissues including oblique back-illumination microscopy High-speed imaging technologies enabling kilohertz-rate voltage imaging in vivo Dr. Mertz has received significant recognition including the Aimeé-Cotton Prize (2002) and Fabry-de-Gramont Prize (2001). His recent publications (2024-2025) demonstrate strong focus on developing scattering microscopy techniques, voltage imaging in thick tissues, and super-resolution methods. Earlier work established foundations in adaptive optics and interferometric approaches. Current projects involve three-photon subcortical imaging, optical scan multiplier development, and HiLo microscopy enhancements. The Biomicroscopy Lab maintains active collaborations with neuroscience groups for in vivo applications.

Martin KrögerView profile

Senior Lecturer

• Polymer Physics
• Computational Physics
• Applied Mathematics
• +3 more

Prof. Dr. Martin Kröger is a Senior Lecturer at the Department of Materials, ETH Zurich. His research focuses on polymer physics, computational physics, applied mathematics, stochastic differential equations, coarse-graining, and biophysics. He leads courses such as Computational Thinking Labs and Polymers I , and serves as the D-MATL Research Integrity Advisor. His work bridges theory and simulation, addressing complex systems like polymer dynamics, nanocomposites, and epidemic modeling. He has pioneered studies on polymer confinement, nanoparticle interactions, and chromatin conformation. His research tools include molecular dynamics simulations and analytical models for epidemics. Key Projects: Computational Polymer Physics, NOVA & POLYHUB initiatives. Roles: Course coordinator, research advisor. Publications span Soft Matter, Physical Review, and interdisciplinary journals. His lab develops models for material behavior under extreme conditions and biological systems.

Leslie YingView profile

Professor

• Medical Imaging
• Deep Learning
• Biomedical Engineering
• +3 more

Leslie Ying is a Professor holding dual appointments in the Department of Biomedical Engineering and Department of Electrical Engineering at the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, University at Buffalo . His research focuses on advancing medical imaging technologies through deep learning and hardware innovations, with particular expertise in MRI reconstruction, RF coil design, and federated learning applications in healthcare. Key research areas include: Accelerated MRI using deep learning frameworks RF coil array design for ultrahigh field imaging Medical imaging denoising and enhancement Federated learning for multi-modal healthcare data Single-molecule localization microscopy Recent work explores transformer-based models for MRI fingerprinting, plasmonic spectrometers for lab-on-chip systems, and self-supervised reconstruction techniques. His publications reflect a strong emphasis on bridging computational methods with hardware innovations to address clinical imaging challenges.

Priya R. BanerjeeView profile

Associate Professor

• Single-molecule biophysics
• Intrinsically disordered proteins
• Phase transitions in biomolecules
• +3 more

Priya R. Banerjee is an Associate Professor in the Department of Physics at the University at Buffalo's College of Arts and Sciences. Her research focuses on single-molecule biophysics and intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs), investigating their phase transitions and functional roles in cellular processes. She employs advanced single-molecule fluorescence spectroscopy, microscopy, and computational modeling to study how IDPs contribute to diseases like neurodegeneration and cancer. Education: BS from University of Calcutta (2005), MS from West Bengal University of Technology (2007), PhD from University at Albany (2011), and postdoctoral training at The Scripps Research Institute (2012-2017). Research interests include understanding IDP-driven biomolecular condensates, phase separation mechanisms, and material properties of these dynamic systems. Her work bridges biophysics and bioengineering, with implications for disease treatment and bioinspired materials. Key Awards: NSF CAREER Award (2023), Meyerson Award for Teaching (2024), and Biophysical Society Young Faculty Award (2023). Grants and advising: Active in interdisciplinary research collaborations, though specific grant details are not listed. Mentors students in experimental and computational biophysics, with a focus on training the next generation of scientists. Labs/Teams: Leads a lab dedicated to single-molecule biophysics and biomolecular condensates, emphasizing collaborative, multidisciplinary approaches to tackle complex biological questions.

Jennifer Flanagan-NatoliView profile

Lecturer

• Instrumentation & Method Development
• Vibrational Spectroscopy
• Physical Chemistry
• +3 more

Jennifer Flanagan-Natoli is a Lecturer and Instrumentation Specialist in the Chemistry Department at Union College. She holds a B.S. from Marist College, a Ph.D. from the University of Texas at Austin, and completed a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Michigan. Her research focuses on vibrational spectroscopy of biological membranes, non-equilibrium spectroscopy, and super-resolution microscopy, alongside pedagogical innovations in STEM education emphasizing equity and community outreach. She teaches introductory chemistry courses (CHM 101, CHM 102L) and the advanced Chemical Instrumentation Lab (CHM 340L). Her work bridges fundamental physical chemistry principles with advanced instrumental techniques, particularly in lipid-water interface dynamics and membrane protein studies. Flanagan-Natoli’s pedagogical research explores evidence-based teaching strategies to enhance student engagement and inclusivity in STEM classrooms. She maintains an active research program involving undergraduate students in spectroscopic method development and biophysical analysis.

Manyu DuView profile

Assistant Professor

• Gene Regulation
• Imaging Biochemistry
• Single Molecule Biophysics
• +4 more

Manyu Du is an Assistant Professor of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology at Penn State University, affiliated with the Eberly College of Science and the Huck Institutes of Life Sciences. He joined Penn State in February 2025 after completing postdoctoral research at MIT (2020–2021) and the Max Planck Institute of Immunobiology and Epigenetics (2021–2024). His doctoral studies in Biochemistry, Molecular and Microbiology were completed at Penn State in December 2019, following a bachelor's degree in Life Sciences from Wuhan University (2013). Dr. Du's research focuses on understanding how transcription machineries and regulatory DNA elements organize in 3D nuclear structures to regulate gene expression. His lab investigates super-enhancers (SEs) and their roles in oncogene activation and developmental gene expression, leveraging cutting-edge techniques like single-molecule super-resolution imaging, lattice light-sheet microscopy, and biochemical assays. Key areas include transcriptional condensates in mouse embryonic stem cells and erythroid leukemia cells, as well as the interplay between phase separation and gene regulation. His recent work spans topics such as chemically induced chromosomal interactions (CICI), LacI protein binding mechanisms in vivo, and long-distance gene regulation in yeast. These studies integrate experimental and computational approaches to unravel fundamental principles of gene expression dynamics and their implications in health and disease. Dr. Du has not yet been listed as having advisory roles or grants in the provided text, but his lab actively collaborates across disciplines to advance biophysical and genomic methodologies. His work contributes to understanding both basic biology and translational applications in cancer and developmental disorders.

Udo D. SchwarzView profile

Professor

• Nanomechanics
• Materials Science
• Surface Physics
• +5 more

Udo D. Schwarz is a Professor of Mechanical Engineering at Yale University with additional appointments in Chemical & Environmental Engineering and Materials Science. He leads the Yale Nanomechanics Group, focusing on atomic-scale interactions in materials science, nanotribology, and metallic glass characterization. His research employs advanced scanning probe microscopy and nanoindentation techniques. Education: PhD in Physics from the University of Basel, Switzerland. He holds a German 'Habilitation' and Venia Legendi from the University of Hamburg, Germany. Research Interests: Atomic-scale force measurements, nanomechanical properties of materials, heterogeneous catalysis, and nanoindentation-based methods development. His work bridges fundamental physics with applied materials science, emphasizing local characterization of mechanical and chemical interactions. Recent Publications (2021–2024): Focus on metallic glass heterogeneity, single-molecule analysis via scanning probe microscopy, and structural studies of bulk metallic glasses under varying thermal conditions. These contributions advance understanding of material behavior at the nanoscale. Awards: Magister of Arts (Yale, 2009), Heisenberg Fellowship (2000), Gaede Award (1999). Students/Alumni: Over 20 researchers, including prominent figures in academia and industry such as Prof. Jiaxin Yu and Dr. Chao Zhou. Labs/Teams: Operates specialized labs for Low Temperature Probe Microscopy, Ambient Condition Force Microscopy, and Nanoindentation.