Our lab investigates the dynamics of living organisms. Bacteria is one of the best systems in which to pursue this question due to its relative simplicity and the wealth of available tools. We explore how physical properties of a system (i.e., shear stress, advection, diffusion) impact the development of bacteria across multiple length scales, from single cell units into multicellular organisms. Our projects seek to understand the role of physical properties in the development of dense biofilm communities.
We design and fabricate microfluidic devices, perform cellular manipulation, and measure cellular dynamics using optical microscopy and computational analysis. The lab connects experiment and theory through the development of models and simulations.
Students are expected to conduct independent laboratory work, schedule and attend meetings with the instructor, and participate in weekly lab meetings. Students should have strong analytical and quantitative skills. Knowledge of biology, chemistry, or programming is helpful but not necessary.
Students should plan to commit at least 10 hours per week and are expected to participate in lab full time during the summer quarter. Successful students can continue for multiple quarters, including Summer, and can complete an undergraduate thesis with the lab.
Open for freshmen through juniors. Applicants should send a copy of their transcript and CV/resume.
Enrollment in PH195. Grading is based on attendance, lab work (quality, accuracy, analysis), communication (quarterly oral presentations), and good lab citizenship.
Albert Siryaporn, Reines 1118, asirya@uci.edu