My primary research interests revolve around basic science questions in the field of cell mechanics, and more specifically, inquiries into the mechanobiological behaviors of human epidermal keratinocytes and fibroblasts in the context of blistering skin diseases and wound healing. In collaborative work with Dr. Edward Sander from the Department of Biomedical Engineering (University of Iowa), we have demonstrated that keratinocyte motility is affected by mechanosensation of substrate deformations. Building from this work, we have more recently begun to explore how extracellular matrix stiffness can affect the motility of epidermal keratinocytes within a model of wound re-epithelialization in vitro. In parallel work, my lab has been developing rheological assays to explore the mechanobiological function of collagen VII in wound healing through a collaboration with Dr. Mei Chen and Dr. David Woodley from the University of Southern California. In another collaborative project with Dr. Anton Kruger from the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering (University of Iowa), we have been working to build an experimental platform that integrates an electromagnetic microneedle with traction force microscopy for probing the biophysical mechanisms of blister formation in bullous pemphigoid and pemphigus vulgaris (human blistering skin diseases). Clinically, I have a special interest in complex medical dermatology, including the diagnosis and management of psoriasis, eczematous dermatitis, and psychoneurogenic dermatitis. In sum, I believe that interdisciplinary research done at both the bench and the bedside will have a profound impact on the ways in which we will treat human skin disease in the years to come.