Diane M. Wiener

Ph.D. Student, Mechanical Engineering
M.S.E. Mechanical Engineering, University of Michigan
B.S. Mechanical Engineering, Gannon University
B.S. Mathematics, Gannon University

Hometown: Avella, PA
Contact: dwiener·'at'·umich·'dot'·edu

My research interests focus on the interdisciplinary research of the application of traditional engineering principles to nanoscale phenomena in molecular biology. I am interested in studying molecular motors from an engineering standpoint, specifically treating kinesin as thermodynamically efficient engines. To achieve that goal, my research integrates molecular biology, biochemistry, and instrumentation development. My research projects utilize various microscopy techniques, such as total internal reflection, optical trapping, gold scattering, and single molecule fluorescence to track the movements of kinesin during its mechanical cycle.