My research group is interested in the structure and dynamics of biological macromolecules - proteins, nucleic acids, lipids and carbohydrates - and the relationship of these to biological function. The primary tools we use involve computer modeling methods, but almost all of our research projects involve collaborations with experimentalists.

The combination of modern computational approaches with traditional methods of determining molecular structures (particularly x-ray crystallography, nuclear magnetic resonance, and electron cryo-microscopy) offers structural biologists incredible new opportunities to investigate macromolecular structure-function relationships. The results of such research form the basis for the design of new drugs, and for developing a wide variety of new techniques for the biotechnology industry.

We are tackling structure-function problems in very large macromolecular assemblies with emphasis on the ribosome and viruses.  Our interest in the ribosome is part of a NASA-funded project to determine the structure of "prebiotic" ribosomes before the emergence of the first cells.  With regard to viruses, we are involved in a combined experimental and computational effort at understanding the principles of viral assembly in small RNA and DNA viruses, with the long-range goal of identifying potential drug targets.

Georgia and its research universities clearly have an understanding of the role that basic science and education play in economic development and in the improvement of quality of life. The state's commitment to this vision, through the Georgia Research Alliance, the Hope Scholarships, and other programs, has attracted a large group of outstanding scientists to the faculties of several universities. Basic research is supported by state-of-the-art facilities and outstanding graduate programs, leading to one of the best collaborative environments for research and development of biotechnology in the world.