MRI: Acquisition of an Atomic Force Microscope for Research and Education in Cellular and Molecular Biophysics at Johns Hopkins University

Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore MD

Investigators

Abstract

An award has been made to Johns Hopkins University under the direction of Dr. Jan H. Hoh to acquire an atomic force microscope for the study of cellular and molecular biophysics. The new instrument will replace several aging microscopes and provide increased capability for a large group of users on the university campus. Research facilitated by the microscope, which allows scientists to study single molecules and very small forces acting upon them, include work on nanomechanics of cell structure, mechanisms of cell division in bacteria, and the nanomechanics involved with protein unfolding. The new instrument will be housed in a microscopy center and will be used by undergraduate and graduate students in coursework and research. A new course in atomic force microscopy will take advantage of the new microscope, and other courses and workshops in biophysics and chemistry will also benefit. The instrument will be used by students participating in several ongoing programs to increase involvement of underrepresented groups in science.