Julie Biteen

Molecular-scale details help us understand the macroscale world

Molecules and their chemical interactions lie at the heart of the world around us. We are understanding biology, physics, and materials science on the molecular scale by bridging the gap between the scale of molecules and the traditional limits of light microscopy. Our research group addresses this fundamental challenge by developing single-molecule fluorescence imaging as a flexible, general technology for ultrahigh-resolution, real-time imaging.

Single-molecule methods have had high impact across the disciplines because they enable high-sensitivity measurements, eliminate heterogeneity in characterization, resolve positions on the nanometer scale, and characterize motions and features in situ—even in live cells. With these approaches, we are answering fundamental, topical questions in microbial cell biology and metal nanoparticle plasmonics. 

Furthermore, the Biteen Lab is committed to defining what it is to be a scientist in the 21st century. The lab is a safe space in which members with a diversity of backgrounds and goals develop as scientists and as community members. We are committed to establishing a welcoming place for all and a culture in which people from marginalized groups can thrive.