Degrees:
- AB Dartmouth College, Biology
- PhD University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Biology
Other Involvement:
- Biochemistry Program faculty member
- Pre-Health Advisor
Overview of current research:
We are currently investigating the nature of the adhesive secretions of a variety of molluscs. These are gels: they consist of a dilute, tangled network of polymers. These adhesives are neither truly solid, like a cement, nor fluid, like the water under a sucker. For lack of a better term, they are often referred to as mucus. The structure of these gels varies widely, however, and the catch-all term "mucus" is probably inappropriate. The function of these gels varies widely as well. Some gels are outstanding lubricants. Some are excellent adhesives. Intriguingly, it appears that many molluscs can convert a slippery gel into a powerful adhesive. Thus, we are comparing the structure of different adhesive gels with the goal of determining the functional significance of structural features.
My contribution to the development of a novel medical glue was highlighted this summer by articles in the Smithsonian Magazine, Science News, PBS and The Washington Post. (See articles below.) Other involvement is included on my Research page.
