Research
Using state-of-the-art approaches, undergraduate, graduate, and postdoctoral students in research labs in the WPI Biology and Biotechnology Department work side by side with faculty members and biotech companies to address critical problems that impact human and environmental health.
Utilizing cutting-edge technology, and enabled by world-class research infrastructure at WPI's Life Sciences and Bioengineering Center, our faculty explore diverse research interests that include topics ranging from cancer biology, neurobiology and microbiology research to studies of brain plasticity and pollinator decline. Student-driven research benefits from close mentorship by dynamic faculty who encourage creativity and inquisitiveness. Driven by interdisciplinary teams of WPI faculty and industry partners, research at WPI is making an impact.
Biology Meets Physics
Assistant professor Luis Vidali describes his collaboration with assistant professor Erkan Tuzel of the Department of Physics to investigate cell biology and help develop a more active biophysics program at WPI.
Cells to Rebuild the Body
Associate professor Tanja Dominko is investigating plasticity of cells—manipulating skin cells, for example, to help wound healing. She discusses her NIH-recognized research.
Cultivating a New Malaria Treatment
With malaria still raging as one of the most prevalent and deadly infectious diseases of the developing world, hope for a long-lasting and effective treatment moves ahead. Professor Pam Weathers found that whole plant therapy derived from the Artemisia annua plant was more effective than conventional malaria drugs.