معرفی
Elisa Franco is a Professor in the Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering and Bioengineering departments at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where she integrates structural biology, dynamics, and control systems through specialized biomolecular frameworks.
Education:
- University of Trieste (2007)
Her research pioneers the convergence of structural biology and control theory using nucleic acid systems, with emphasis on synthetic gene cascades and DNA nanotechnology for programmable assembly processes. She develops biomolecular frameworks that enable timed control of DNA nanotube formation, bridging engineering principles with biological systems to create dynamic molecular architectures.
Scientific Awards:
- NSF CAREER Award (2015)
- Hellman Family Foundation Fellow (2013-2014)
Professor Franco leads the Dynamic Nucleic Acid Systems Lab and directs research funded by the NSF CAREER award. Her work on synthetic gene cascades controlling DNA nanotube assembly was featured in Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology News (November 2024), demonstrating real-world applications of biomolecular timing mechanisms. She actively mentors graduate students while advancing foundational research in biomolecular control systems.
Her laboratory focuses on engineering dynamic nucleic acid systems for applications in biotechnology, nanomedicine, and programmable materials, maintaining strong interdisciplinary connections between engineering and life sciences.
