Research interests: 
The lab focuses on computer-guided protein and DNA engineering, particularly the engineering of crystals. Methods of particular interest include directed evolution, macromolecular crystallography, protein structure prediction, and new algorithms for reliable computational protein engineering. The lab works on designing and experimentally testing a new class of self-assembling crystals composed of both protein and DNA building blocks.

Summer project:
This project aims to realize one of the most transformative goals of nanotechnology – the ability to engineer complex macroscopic materials in which the constituent atoms are nonetheless positioned precisely. Precise control of the 3-D position of functional molecules will open the door for materials with unprecedented performance for diverse applications including biosensing, catalysis, energy conversion, biomedicine, and biotechnology. For example, enzyme positioning will enhance catalysis, chromophore positioning will enhance photonic materials, nanoparticle positioning will lead to superior hybrid materials, and conditional release of fluorescent and/or therapeutic proteins will lead to new biosensor and drug delivery materials.

Contact: For additional information and to apply, please contact Prof. Christopher Snow (Christopher.Snow@colostate.edu)