Grand Challenge: Bridging the Bio-Nano Information Gap
Brief overview: We design and engineer real-time, multimodal molecular sensing platforms that seamlessly merge nanoscale photonics and electronics with complex biological and environmental systems. This interdisciplinary approach allows us to overcome the challenges of interfacing nanoscale technologies with the intricate world of living organisms and ecosystems, enabling us to extract meaningful information and exert precise control at the molecular level.
Core Research Areas
- Nanotechnology-Driven Bioinformation Engineering: We develop advanced nanomaterials and device architectures capable of capturing, processing, and interpreting biological data at the molecular and cellular levels. This involves designing and fabricating nanoscale sensors that can detect specific biomolecules, monitor cellular processes, and analyze complex biological signals in real-time.
- Multimodal Hybrid Optical-Electrical Interfaces: Our research integrates optical, electrical, and biochemical signals to achieve high-resolution sensing and actuation. By combining these modalities, we can create devices that not only detect and monitor biological events but also interact with and influence biological systems in a controlled manner.
- Wavelength-Multiplexed, Multiresonant Plasmonic Nanophotonics: We focus on engineering plasmonic nanostructures with tunable resonances to enhance light-matter interactions. This enables ultra-sensitive molecular detection, quantum-enhanced bioimaging, and signal amplification, pushing the boundaries of biosensing capabilities.
- Hierarchical Multiphysics Micro-/Nano-Optoelectrode Biosensors & Actuators: We emphasize the scalable fabrication of precision biosensors that combine optical and electrical functionalities for real-time biochemical monitoring and neuromodulation. These devices provide powerful tools for studying complex biological processes and developing innovative therapeutic interventions.
- Nonlinear Bio-Nanophotonics: Our research explores nonlinear optical phenomena, such as second-harmonic generation (SHG) and third-harmonic generation (THG), to enable high-contrast, label-free detection of biomolecular activities. This approach offers new possibilities for sensitive and specific biosensing without the need for external labels or markers.
- Machine Learning-Enabled Spatiotemporal Multimodal Bioinformation Processing: We develop and apply artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) tools to integrate and interpret large, diverse biosensing datasets. This enables predictive diagnostics, personalized health monitoring, and data-driven insights into complex biological and environmental processes.
Major Projects & Grants
- Wearable Bio-Nanophotonics for Wound Infection Management (CHRB)
- Key aim: Real-time detection of wound biofilms.
- Significance: Addresses antibiotic resistance and chronic wound care.
- On-Farm Biosensors for Mastitis Management
- Focus: Environmental/husbandry application for rapid pathogen detection.
- Impact: Improving livestock health and food safety.
- Precision Nanosurgery & Intracellular Monitoring (AFOSR)
- Goal: 2-tier nano-optoelectrode arrays for intracellular activity monitoring.
- Relevance: Intracellular real-time bioinformation at the subcellular level.
- Personal Real-Time SARS-CoV-2 Sensor (Wellcome Leap)
- Objective: Portable sensor for virus detection in indoor environments.
- Tie-in: Environmental stewardship & pandemic readiness.