Research in my lab centers on the surface
and interfacial properties of polymers and their
interactions with proteins. My students and I have
investigated the effect of structural changes in the
side-chains of a family of acrylic polymers on the behaviour
of the monomolecular films that they produce on the surface
of water and buffered solutions. We have studied these films
on their own and in the presence of several different
proteins that are commonly found in blood and tears. Our
studies are designed to elucidate the molecular interactions
between polymers and proteins with the goal of developing
synthetic biomedical devices with enhanced surface
properties. Recently, we've begun studies that show that
these polymers may be successfully used to extract proteins
from aqueous solutions.
Research Opportunities for Students
Research opportunities exist for students
in my research lab. If you're interested in collaborating with
me on any of my research projects, please contact me to find out
if there is room for one more student.
