About the Nanobiology Training Program (NBTP)

Nearly 50 years ago molecular biology began as a convergence of structural and biochemical methods allowing biologists to probe living systems at the molecular level. Nanotechnology and nanobiology are emerging from a similar convergence of tools and methods in surface science, synthesis and biology, but our emphasis is on living systems and biomaterials at the nanoscale level. Nanoscale structures and properties are increasingly important. Biological molecules acquire unique properties when used in conjunction with other nanoscale structures and patterns. At the nanoscale level, natural and manmade nanoscale systems are not well described by simple extrapolation of molecular or macroscopic phenomena. As a result, new structural, computational and chemical tools have been developed by nanoscientists to address specifically the unique material properties in these systems not easily captured through conventional analysis.

Nanobiology, thus formulated, does not displace traditional biochemistry, since many systems can be described using conventional molecular tools; instead, this emerging discipline focuses on the properties and structure of complex assemblies of biomolecules, such as biochips, molecular motors and membrane assemblies in conjunction with the distinctive surfaces, rods, dots and materials of nanoscience. Conversely, constructed materials of nanobiology cannot be described simply as molecules. This new interdisciplinary field will develop the tools, ideas and curricula that will enable students to transfer their knowledge and skills to new systems whose properties are not easily extrapolated from molecular phenomena. The mission of this nanobiology training program (NBTP) is to integrate the principles of nanoscale science and biology in research and coursework in the development of the first generation of nanobiologists.

To realize our mission of training a generation of scientists in Nanobiology, the NBTP envisions a tightly integrated research and training program to include coursework, group activities, and original research. A portfolio of high-quality collaborative projects will provide students with the capacity to use the principles of nanobiology in creating and analyzing both natural and manmade structures. We envision the traditional science and engineering disciplines as contributing to our core Bionano areas of Modeling, Imaging and and Materials. These in turn provide the substrate necessary to forge the new discipline of nanobiology.

Nanobiology is the conjunction of themes from materials, imaging and modeling
focused on problems of biomedical research. These themes have roots in traditional disciplines.

The NBTP is designed to train a new type of scientist in the emerging field of nanobiology. The unique constellation of resources in Houston and the infrastructure provided by the Keck Center/GCC create fertile ground in which to grow this new discipline. The Nanobiology Training Program curriculum will benefit from the input of our students, motivated by their creativity and excitement in this enterprise. Dual mentorship and a sabbatical period in the co-mentors laboratory ensure effective cross-training and immersion in the complementary fields that will come together in nanobiology. The quality of science pursued in the laboratories of the training faculty coupled with the enthusiasm that surrounds this nascent area will provide the essential elements for a first-class program.

For information about the Gulf Coast Consortia (GCC), other Keck Center Training Programs, and the GCC Research Consortia, please go to GCC Home