Brandeis REU @ Brandeis University
The research in our center concerns the combination of materials science with biology. We have very strong programs in the physical sciences and the life sciences, which we have combined to study this fascinating area. Here are some examples of our research topics, involving theory, experiments and computer simulations:
- how long polymer molecules like DNA behave when highly confined to the tiny volume of a cell
- how "chiral" objects, ones that have a twisted shape, pack together to make interesting structures, like twisted ribbons and spiral shaped filaments
- how assemblies of self-powered microscopic objects cluster together to make organized structures called "active matter," that moves under its own power, like a cell crawling over a surface.
We are also "reverse engineering" elements of living cells to see how they are constructed and what elements of their structure are necessary for their function. An example is the cilia on the surfaces of cells in our lungs, which constantly work to sweep pollutants out of our lungs. We want to understand the structure and dynamics of these self-powered oscillating filaments, by observing their internal structure by three-dimensional electron microscopy, by genetic modifications to change their structure, and by mechanical experiments on single cilia, to measure their physical properties.
Brandeis REU program includes:
- a stand-alone, substantive research project, appropriate for a 10-week period for each student
- $3,800 stipend plus all costs for travel and housing
- interaction with a faculty member and daily interaction with a graduate student mentor
- weekly faculty-led seminars on various research topics and ethics in research
- emphasis on professional development, including written and oral skills and preparing for a career in science and engineering
- end-of-summer REU seminar series in which students present research results and conclusions
- final written report
- social activities and visits to local research institutes and area attractions
