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Research in our group is interdisciplinary, on the border between
theoretical physics and chemistry, applied mathematics and biology. We
study how complex behaviour emerges from the
interactions between many individual objects. Specific topics of interest
include biological systems such as virus self-assembly, DNA
nano-structure self-assembly or the evolution of gene networks, as
well as the properties of complex fluids/soft matter systems such as colloids
polymers, or proteins in solution. We primarily use the tools of
statistical mechanics -- especially analytic theories and computer
simulations -- to better understand the behaviour of these fascinating
systems. "Coarse-graining", where a subset of the (microscopic)
degrees of freedom are integrated out to yield a simpler and more
tractable problem, is a common theme in these descriptions.
Here at Oxford, we
work closely with members of the
Theory of Soft and Biological Matter group,
with whom we share many research interests. We're also members of
the StoMP Network between mathematical modellers and microbiologists.
A few recent topics (more detailed research page coming later)
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