23 August 2024 marks an exciting milestone as our lab(Finzi/Dunlap Lab) is finally up and running at Clemson University! After months of planning, packing, and setting up, everything is ready. It’s a big step for us as we transition from Emory University to this new space. The journey here wasn’t easy, but it’s been worth it. Seeing the once-empty benches now filled with equipment and buzzing with activity feels incredible.
What We Do
In our lab, we study one of life’s most important processes: how DNA is transcribed into RNA. This step is vital for cells to function properly. When something goes wrong, it can lead to diseases. We’re working to figure out how this process is regulated and how forces at the molecular level play a role.
We use some fascinating tools for our research, including:
- Tethered particle motion (TPM): to watch tiny DNA movements
- Magnetic and optical tweezers: to apply and measure forces on molecules
- Atomic force microscopy (AFM): to explore surfaces at the nanoscale
- Single-molecule fluorescence: to see how molecules interact
In addition to these advanced tools, we also use traditional lab techniques to give us a well-rounded understanding of what’s happening. And when we need something specific, we build our own equipment and develop software to analyze the data.
Our work covers some pretty interesting topics, like:
- Liquid-liquid phase separation in cells
- How genetic switches turn on and off
- What happens when transcription encounters obstacles
- The mechanics of DNA supercoiling
- How enzymes like topoisomerases work
Looking Ahead
Our lab is more than just a place for experiments—it’s a team of people passionate about solving big questions. There will be challenges along the way, but we’re ready for them. Each step forward brings us closer to discovering something new.
Welcome to our lab—a place where curiosity and discovery come together every day.