Research

Autonomous Evolution

How can thermal gradients drive Darwinian Evolution? Can we host replication and selection on the molecular level in a single chamber? We experimentally probe disequilibrium scenarios of early evolution. This project is funded with an ERC Starting Grant.

Biomolecule Binding Assays with Thermophoresis

We use a thermal field to quantify the affinity of biomolecule binding. A wide range of concentrations and molecule sizes can be probed. See our Biotech Startup NanoTemper

In-Vivo Kinetics

How fast are reactions inside living cells? We invented an optical Lock-in method is used to image fast kinetics in living cells with optical resolution.

Opto-Thermal Molecule Trap (movie)

We showed that a moving laser can accumulate short DNA by combining thermophoresis and light driven microflow. The result is a molecule trap going far beyond optical trapping.

Light driven microfluidics (movie)

We invented a way to use a warm laser spot to move water with optical resolution (also in ice). This is the basis for light driven microfluidics. Fluids can be moved without mechanical contact.

Understanding Thermophoresis

We used a local equilibrium model to predict thermophoresis quantitatively for the first time. The model was applied equally well to polystyrene beads and DNA of various length.

Whispering Gallery Mode Detection

A circular light resonance is used to detect biomolecules on a glass sphere. This establishes a novel way for label-free binding detection on surfaces.

Imaging the thickness and resistance of a neuron on silicon

Standing waves and voltage sensitive dyes are used to specify the neuron-electrode contact. Both the thickness on the nanometer scale and the area resistance of the contact can be inferred.