Biophysics
Prof. Ghosh's work is in the area of theoretical statistical mechanics of biopolymers. He is particularly interested in developing theoretical models for thermodynamics and kinetics of protein folding and protein aggregation to better understand the origin of several neurodegenerative diseases and help in the formulation of protein therapeutics. His other interest is to model non-equilibrium systems where fluctuations are important. This is particularly important in the study of dynamics in the fields of nano and bio-science, where small number fluctuations can determine macroscopic behaviors. The focus of his work is both to lay the foundation for dynamical processes where fluctuations are significant, and more importanly, to apply the theory to the types of single molecule experiments that are beginning to appear routinely in biology.
Prof. Shaheen's work in biophysics currently focusses on interactions between proteins and nanoparticles for the purpose of modulating protein-protein interactions and self assembly. This work is being carried out in collaboration with Prof. David Patterson in the Eleanor Roosevelt Roosevelt and Prof. Christina Coughlin in Biological Sciences. Shaheen's group also examines the complex dynamics of neuronal networks with the aim of understanding the role of network topology on learning rates and plasticity. In general he is interested in studying the physics and dynamics of the rich behaviors of complex biological, ecological, and social systems. Futher information can be found on his group homepage.
Research into biophysics, biological statistics, and biological complexity will soon be growing as a result of the establishment of the Integrated Molecular Life Sciences and Biophysics program at DU and the current department search for new faculty members in biophysics.
July 21, 2008