Scanning probe and holographic micrscopy

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The research will apply Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) as well as, Fluorescence and Holographic microscopy to a variety of problems in condensed matter physics and biophysics. One objective is to understand the detailed molecular mechanisms that lead to cell division in bacteria. In particular, AFM will be used to obtain images of Min proteins on phospholipids membranes. This will show how molecules, that play a role in cell division, associate and bind to the inner wall of the bacterial envelope. The AFM will also be used to measure the binding of proteins on the surface of live bacteria with appropriate antibodies attached to the tip of the AFM, with the aim to produce maps of the distribution of proteins on the bacterial surface. Furthermore, high resolution imaging of the stress bearing layer in the bacterial wall will be performed in order to resolve the long standing questions concerning the detailed molecular architecture of this cell component. The layer gives the cell stability against the internal pressure but the layer must also allow molecular traffic through the cell wall. It is therefore important for an understanding of cell function and also for the development of antimicrobial agents to discover the correct architecture of this stress bearing layer. Digital in-line holographic microscopy (DIHM) with visible light has achieved sub micron resolution. Our research will extend DIHM measurements into the infrared which will open up potentially new application areas in soft matter research and medicine.