The Wendy Thomas lab specializes in the biomechanics of host-pathogen interactions, including both bacterial and viral infections. We have a myriad of interests within this field, and collaborate with microbiologists, biophysicists, biochemists, physicians and veterinarians as well as other engineers to approach scientific questions holistically. We approach these problems with a mixture of molecular, cellular, and systems level experimentation that is often complemented by computational modeling.
One focus of our lab is the multi-scale systems biology of the mechanics of biological adhesion. Another focus of our lab is how antibodies can regulate the conformation of adhesive proteins that allow bacteria or viruses to bind to host cells.
For more information, check out our Research Page!
The Thomas lab seeks to be an inclusive place where lab members can bring our whole selves to work, and can learn and grow as scientists and engineers with lots of feedback. If you are interested in joining the lab, check out our Opportunities page and the News feed.