Antibody and enzyme engineering with an emphasis on creating better methods for improving protein function. Several new technologies have been developed and patented. Recent successes include (a) the production of improved antibodies capable of neutralizing toxins from pathogens such as anthrax and (b) altering the substrate specificity of an E. coli protease. These projects are carried out in collaboration with Dr. George Georgiou.

Artificial macromolecules with defined higher order structure, including the first class of DNA threading polyintercalators and a unique molecular scaffold that folds into a novel pleated secondary structure. These projects examine large molecule structure and function from an organic chemistry perspective.