I’m a biophysicist working in systems biology who develops and applies computational methods to study single molecules, molecular machines and cellular behavior. At the molecular scale, my group extends the timescales observable in simulations, as well as to characterize mechanistic information that emerges from biophysical experiments. At the cellular scale, we quantify cell shape and motions observed in live-cell microscopy and connect these to RNA and protein behavior.   

In addition to research, I’m involved with initiatives to strengthen the role of quantitative biology at OHSU. I direct the Quantitative and Systems Biology Program, which brings together computational and systems biologists from across disciplines throughout the university.  I co-direct the Integrated Training in Quantitative and Experimental Cancer Systems Biology fellowship program which provides training and financial support to both postdocs and graduate students. 

I channel my passion for teaching and mentoring into writing textbooks, a blog and pedagogical articles. My goal is to help non-experts gain a rigorous grounding in the physics of biological systems. I also helped to start Living Journal of Computational Molecular Science devoted to pedagogically oriented articles. I’m proud that my trainees have gone on to successful careers in both academia and industry. I believe that trainees deserve respect, rigorous training, inspiration and a warm, welcoming environment. 

The Pacific Northwest is wonderful for exploring nature, and I love to be outside in any way possible.