Integrative Cryo-Imaging

Research Goal

The Integrative Cryo-Imaging Lab develops next-generation imaging technologies to connect molecular structure with biological function across scales. A central focus is the development and quantitative characterization of fluorescent probes and photonic measurements under cryogenic conditions, including detailed analysis of fluorophore behavior in cryo environments. By integrating advanced optical microscopy, cryogenic photonics, and cryo-electron tomography, the lab aims to establish a unified imaging pipeline that goes beyond traditional CLEM, enabling direct integration of structural, photonic, and functional information. To achieve this, we develop and combine single-molecule microscopy, fluorescence lifetime imaging, spectral and functional imaging, and super-resolution approaches such as DNA-PAINT, alongside AI-guided design of fluorescent proteins and biosensors. These technologies are applied to a range of biological questions, with a particular focus on viral entry and membrane fusion. As an example, we study Class I viral fusion proteins, including HIV-1 Env, Ebola GP, Nipah F, and coronavirus Spike. By integrating imaging modalities across single molecules, viral particles, cells, and tissues, the lab seeks to uncover the biophysical principles governing membrane fusion and other dynamic biological processes.