Ultrananoscale Materials to Probe and Perturb Biological Processes

Nathan Gianneschi — nathan.gianneschi@northwestern.edu

Cassandra Callmann — ccallmann@utexas.edu

Biological processes are orchestrated by molecular interactions that unfold on the nanometer length scale. To both observe and manipulate these processes with precision, synthetic materials that match the size and complexity of subcellular machinery are required. Many of the most successful and effective therapeutics are biomacromolecules, such as antibodies, peptides, and nucleic acids. These biosynthetic and synthetic constructs function, in part, because they engage targets of the same size regime, unlike small molecules. It is now possible to construct macromolecules and molecular assemblies with the spatial resolution and functional complexity required to interface directly with biological machinery, operating at the sub-1 to ~10 nanometer scale; here defined as the “ultrananoscale” regime.

This workshop will bring together researchers working at the interface of synthetic polymer chemistry, inorganic chemistry, materials science, bioengineering, and chemical biology to define the principles that govern material function at the ultrananoscale in biological contexts. Topics will include the chemical synthesis and folding of precision macromolecules, design rules for macromolecules that directly interface with cells, and strategies for engaging specific proteins, nucleic acids, and subcellular environments using ultrasmall materials. By focusing on systems that operate within the dimensional space of biology itself, the workshop will explore how synthetic design can unlock new ways to understand and control the molecular basis of life.

We wish to ensure an intimate workshop setting, with no more than 20 to 25 participants. If you are interested in attending but have not received an invitation, please contact the workshop organizer before registering.

Sessions typically run mornings and late afternoons, leaving mid-day free for informal collaboration.

Travel to Telluride can be expensive; please assess your own potential travel costs before registering.

Please book your travel plans! The Montrose Regional Airport (MTJ) is the most reliable and convenient airport for Telluride.

Telluride Science can provide lodging starting as low as $215/night during off-peak weeks and as low as $250/night during peak-season at the Mountainside Inn. These affordable lodging options are limited and available first-come, first-serve. To encourage participants to secure affordable lodging, we offer a $100 discount on lodging provided through Telluride Science that is secured before the Early Bird deadline. Additionally, we work with many lodging providers in Telluride and Mountain Village to offer discounts between 10-15% off your total lodging balance. Additional information provided with registration.

If you have more questions about lodging, reach out to Sara at sara@telluridescience.org.

Registrations may be refunded less a $25 cancellation fee. If cancelled before the lodging cancellation deadline, lodging payments are refundable less a $100 cancellation fee. It is each participant's responsibility to confirm and understand their own lodging cancellation deadline. Travel insurance is highly recommended.