My research interests center on visualization of molecular and supramolecular ordering in complex fluids, interfaces and biomaterials. Visualizing an ordered fluid requires the ultimate in combined microscopy techniques such as fluorescence and Brewster angle optical microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, scanning tunneling microscopy, and atomic force microscopy. My lab is one of the few in the world that combines state-of-the-art equipment and expertise in all types of microscopy. Research is organized along two broad lines: developing new experimental techniques to make complex fluids and biomaterials compatible with high-resolution microscopy, and using these techniques to create and characterize new biologically inspired materials. We use our technology to explore the relationships between the physics, chemistry and physiology of diseases including cancer, respiratory distress, and multiple sclerosis.
