Research projects

We develop theoretical models for the physics of neurons, investigating questions such as: 

• How do physical forces mediate correct “wiring” of nerve axons during nervous system development?

• How is the internal structure of axons organized, and what goes wrong in neurodegenerative diseases?

Collaborators: Dr. Peter Baas, Drexel University; Dr. Kyle Miller, Michigan State University; Dr. Nathan Kuwada, Central Washington University 

Student designed projects in Computational Biophysics, Physics Education, or related topics. Recent examples:

• Computational model of pattern formation in plant growth

• Computational investigation of prion disease propagation

• Developing tactile graphics for visually impaired students in STEM

• Teaching mechanical energy concepts through video analysis of kangaroos

• Designing and building analogous circuits to model excitable nerve membranes

Recent collaborators: Dr. Michael Braunstein, Central Washington University; Dr. Derek Ricketson, Central Washington University; Dr. Tim Sorey, Central Washington University