Acoustofluidic Manipulation & Integration
I use acoustic excitation to manipulate individual cells and small organisms without direct physical contact, enabling 3D access for optical and mechanical characterisations. Current work aims to extend surface acoustic wave architecture towards programmable systems for on-demand adaptable manipulations across a wide range of interaction regimes.
Bioelectronics & Neural Networks
I develop bioelectronic approaches for monitoring the function of neuronal cells and networks over extended periods. By integrating microelectrode technologies with advanced biological models, imaging, and quantitative analysis, this work connects molecular and cellular changes with the activity of entire neural networks and disease dynamics.
Accessible Microfluidic Platforms
I develop microfluidic platforms around the practical needs of biological researchers, making advanced experiments easier to establish and operate. These devices create controlled environments for studying cellular growth, organism development, neuronal activity and disease progression. A central aim is to produce technologies that collaborating laboratories can use independently, without requiring specialist engineering expertise.
Characterisation of Molecular Dynamics
Fluorescence lifetime imaging reveals molecular interactions and cellular changes that conventional fluorescence measurements cannot resolve. I use this approach to study processes including protein aggregation, molecular condensation and altered cellular metabolism in living biological systems. I also develop accessible, open-source FLIM software that simplifies analysis and helps researchers extract meaningful information from complex imaging data.
In Vivo Modelling of Neurodegeneration
I use the model organism C. elegans to investigate how neurodegenerative diseases develop across the lifespan. By combining neuronal imaging, behavioural measurements and molecular analysis, I examine how disease-associated proteins and environmental factors affect nervous-system function before severe pathology appears. These whole-organism models also provide a powerful and accessible basis for evaluating potential interventions.
Advanced Micro- and Nanomanufacturing
I develop fabrication methods for biological devices containing precisely defined features across micro- and nanometre scales. This work improves the reliability, performance and reproducibility of microsystems while enabling structures that conventional manufacturing methods struggle to produce. I apply these approaches across acoustofluidic devices, microfluidic platforms, and high-aspect-ratio micro- and nanostructures.
Compound Screening & Therapeutic Discovery
I investigate how natural, dietary and pharmacological compounds influence molecular and neuronal health. By combining computational screening with experimental disease models and quantitative imaging, I identify compounds that reduce proteinopathy or promote healthy biological function. The broader goal is to discover interventions capable of modifying disease trajectories before irreversible damage occurs.
Biomechanics & Mechanobiology
I investigate how the mechanical properties of cells, plants and small organisms shape their structure, behaviour and function. By combining controlled manipulation with sensitive force measurements, my work has revealed mechanical variation between individual specimens and helped explain responses such as pollen deformation and rapid Venus flytrap closure.