Ido Braslavsky is a biophysicist. Bio-mineralization and the control
of proteins in crystal growth are Braslavsky's research thrusts. He
is especially interested in the control of ice growth by antifreeze
proteins. These proteins, naturally found in arctic fish
and in over-wintering insects, have the potential to protect crops
from frostbite, extend the viability of heart transplants, and
improve ice cream. Braslavsky also performs research in biotechnology
involving single molecule detection and manipulations, and in
inventing new methods for DNA sequencing.
His experimental projects involve the use of techniques such as fluorescence microscopy, optical tweezers and microfluidics. For example, he investigates how antifreeze proteins interfere with ice growth by visualizing them on ice using fluorescence microscopy and fluorescently tagged proteins; one can actually visualize how these tiny proteins stick to ice.
His experimental projects using fluorescence microscopy manipulate small particles with optical tweezers. The development of the required microfluidic devices, in which a very small amount of liquid can be manipulated, is an important part of his research.
If not at his desk or lab, you may find him strolling with his daughters, playing his flute or saxophone, or riding his yellow mountain bike on Strouds Run State Park trails.
