Matthew John Lang

Matthew John Lang, PhD, is a Professor in both the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering and the Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics at Vanderbilt University. His research focuses on probing molecular and cellular machinery through functional measurements, employing methods like optical tweezers, single-molecule fluorescence spectroscopy, and molecular simulations. Key areas include T-cell receptor (TCR) mechanobiology, cellulose degradation mechanisms, and protease dynamics. He holds dual faculty appointments and has pioneered techniques to study mechanical signaling in immune cells and enzymatic systems. Contact: matt.lang@vanderbilt.edu.

Research interests emphasize understanding how mechanical forces influence molecular interactions, particularly in T-cell activation and antigen recognition. His work integrates engineering, biophysics, and immunology to unravel fundamental biological processes. Recent studies highlight the role of mechanical load in TCR-pMHC interactions, asymmetric TCR framework motions, and cellulase processivity mechanisms.

Publications span biophysical mechanisms of immune receptors, enzymatic degradation pathways, and protease function. His lab develops innovative tools like combined optical trapping and fluorescence imaging for single-cell analysis. Collaborations bridge disciplines, addressing challenges in cancer immunotherapy and bioenergy applications.