Research
The Computational Biology Laboratory is a studio for mathematical aspects of life science. We use mathematical modelling, computation and data analysis to investigate biological mechanisms, working across computational neuroscience, cellular biophysics, quantitative pharmacology, pattern formation and evolutionary genomics.
Our projects bring mathematical theory into conversation with experiments. Differential equations, probability, graph theory and statistical methods help us formulate mechanisms, work out their consequences and ask what biological measurements can distinguish. Students contribute to collaborations spanning applied mathematics, biology, neuroscience, data science and bioengineering.
Research areas
SynGAP and PSD-95 phase separation. With Sarah Sakly and Jennifer Bestman, we investigate the molecular organization of synaptic condensates through phase-separation models and an NSF-supported programme linking protein interactions to neuronal development.
Receptor allostery and cycle kinetics. We develop mathematical theory for multi-subunit receptors, connecting molecular interactions and thermodynamic constraints with binding, activation and nonequilibrium signalling. One-page summary (PDF).
Neural mechanisms of breathing. With Christopher Del Negro, we study how the preBötzinger complex generates normal breaths and sighs, and how μ-opioid receptor signalling changes the excitability of respiratory neurons. One-page summary (PDF).
Pattern formation and genome evolution. Work with Joshua Puzey, Arielle Cooley and colleagues combines models of floral patterning with studies of hybrid genomes, gene expression and transposable elements. One-page summary (PDF).
Students and collaborations
Graduate researchers in the lab are members of William & Mary’s Department of Applied Science in the School of Computing, Data Sciences & Physics. Undergraduate researchers often study Mathematics, Neuroscience or CAMS Mathematical Biology. The CBL repository offers examples and resources for students interested in the lab. We also participate in William & Mary’s biomathematics and data science communities.
Earlier projects
Calcium dynamics: intracellular calcium diffusion, buffering and stochastic release, from local signals to cell-wide waves.
Visual thalamus: models of thalamocortical relay neurons, neuronal populations and visual processing.