November 4, 2016 @ 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm
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Recent Breakthroughs in Molecular Biology, Physics, Nanoscience, and Chemistry and the Emergence of Novel Biocentric Technologies
Dr. Banahalli R. Ratna, Center for Bio/Molecular Science and Engineering, Naval Research Laboratory
Recent breakthroughs in molecular biology, physics, nanoscience, and chemistry have led to the emergence of novel biocentric technologies, which offer significant solutions to a number of critical Navy problems. In particular, the ability to harness the function and specificity of biologically derived materials is leading to the development of ultra-smart filters, fast, reliable, and sensitive CBW detectors, new types of sensors for mine detection, improved fuels, new energy sources, protective films, and materials with enhanced electronic, mechanical or optical properties. In my presentation, I will focus on research that utilizes the principle of self-assembly to develop bioderived multifunctional materials. For example, the self-assembling property of the double helix can be taken advantage of to build intricate networks of patterns that can be utilized as scaffolds to co-assemble a variety of molecules and nanoparticles to develop novel functionalities and devices. I will also discuss how recent advances in molecular biology and the capability of large-scale and culture-independent biomolecular measurements aid in deconvoluting the inherent complexity of physically associated multi-species microbial communities. For example, a detailed understanding of the fundamental electron transfer pathways in microbial consortia of robust marine biofilms has enabled development of Microbial Fuel Cells (MFCs) that produce uninterrupted power in the ocean.
Seminar will be held at 3:30 PM in Malone G33/35.
