Sasha's main scientific interests cover non-equilibrium structural transition in proteins and their role in function of biomolecules.  Among the currently studied systems are the photosynthetic reaction centers, photosynthetic oxygen evolving systems, cytochrome oxidases, and bacteriorhodopsins. These macromolecules, although different structurally and functionally, seem to obey the same physical principles in their function.  In particular, our recent studies indicated the prime importance of non-equilibrium dynamic effects and non-equilibrium phase transitions in function of these biomolecules.

Email address : goushcha@citrus.ucr.edu

Darcy Tarrant
(B.S. M.S. Chemistry, California State University, Sacramento)

My proposed research includes the photochemical investigation of the decomposition of polyacene dimers in perdeuterated dimer hosts. Laser induced fluorescence, one-and two-photon fluorescence excitation spectroscopy, fluorescence anisotropy measurements, as well as two color photochemical hole burning will be employed to study these systems. The information obtained in the interchromophoric coupling will be used to determine the type of interaction existing between chromophores and will aid in the development of a theoretical model to explain these interactions. The experimental and theoretical information will be used to assign the excited state energy levels in the molecules. These studies will lead to a more thorough understanding of the excited state interactions of aromatic dimers.

Anthony Manzo
(B.S. M.S. Physics, Cal. State Univ., Northridge)

Currently I'm working on experiments to measure photoexcitation and charge recombination kinetics in photosynthetic reaction centers with the intent to better understand the coupling of these events to the protein dynamics in these biomolecules. Such proteins are macromolecular complexes and can reveal physical principles behind the behavior of similar complex systems in general. Such studies may also lead to important technological uses of proteins as complex adaptive materials.

Email: manzoa01@student.ucr.edu

Sherlyn Ann Benois-Green

Sherlyn is currently an undergraduate here.  She is studying charge transfer and charge recombination in the protein cytochrome oxidase within sol-gel glasses. With this method charge recombination in an intramolecular system can be studied through immobilized proteins opposed to an intermolecular system where proteins are allowed to interact with one another in aqueous solution. Proteins that are encapsulated within the caverns of the sol-gel matrix will not be able to come in contact with other macromolecules in that environment, so viewing how this particular protein will adapt to those conditions will be viewed as well.

Email:  benois01@student.ucr.edu