Solving Life's Smallest Problems

Using high energy femtosecond light sources it is now possible to ‘watch’ at the molecular level how enzymes work in health and biotechnology.

From their intricate structures to their pivotal roles in health, disease, venture into the complexities of life and proteins use in the development of novel drugs.

The microscopic world has captivated people since the invention of microscopes in the 17th century. However, microscopes using visible light are limited in what they can resolve. To study life on its smallest scales electron microscopes were invented. Modern electron microscopes can resolve the atomic details of human cells, viruses and even single molecules such as proteins. In this short talk I will present the fascinating story of the development of modern electron microscopy and how it has revolutionised our understanding of human health and disease.