Hore group

Dennis K. Hore
Assistant Professor

biophysical chemistry, materials science

The conformation of proteins is well-recognized as being of paramount importance to their function in living systems and synthetic bio-devices. We are interested in the interaction of proteins with hydrophobic solid surfaces. Does the protein change its structure upon adsorption on the surface? What are the molecular-level chemical features of the protein and surface that are responsible for these changes? An increased understanding of these questions is vital to ensure the continued development of biomaterials such as implants and biosensors. Our group tackles these questions using a combination of experimental and theoretical approaches.

Our efforts are focused on:

1. developing spectroscopic instruments & techniques that reveal detailed structural information about biomolecules adsorbed on biologically-relevant surfaces;
2. developing computational techniques for modeling these biomolecule-material interactions

Check out some more detailed information about our area of research interest.

There are currently great opportunites for graduate and undergraduate students in our award-winning group.