Research summary
Biological systems—from single cells to complex organisms—have amazing dynamic and adaptive mechanical properties. These properties allow them to adapt to change, respond to stimuli, and remain remarkably tough. Understanding the mechanics behind how these systems function or fail is essential when developing new materials and trying to understand and potentially manipulate cell behaviour.
As Canada Research Chair in Biological Mechanics, Dr. Allen Ehrlicher is examining and exploiting the principles of biological mechanics by pursuing two interrelated themes. First, he and his research team will study the interplay between physical forces and cell biology. Second, they will engineer synthetic biology and new materials that build on the robust mechanics of biological systems. By leading to new insights into biological mechanics, Ehrlicher’s research will have applications in areas like medicine and materials science.