My goals in research and scholarly work are the following. First, I am collaborating with Prof. Don Gabriel in the development of cell based assays. Current work is focused on the determination of the state of activation of platelet membranes. We are using electrophoretic light scattering (ELS) to monitor the surface charge density of platelets exposed to various agonists. The results can indicate the effectiveness of medications. Instrumentation is under development to automate our procedures. We are also using high-resolution NMR to monitor cellular components for platelets from patients in pilot studies involving anti-platelet and anti-coagulant medications and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Our aim is to obtain information permitting appropriate, individualized recommendations for dietary supplements and medication.

In my second project, I am researching the science behind photography at all levels. I am writing a book on science in photography from quantum mechanics to physiology and art appreciation. The aim is twofold. First, I am using photography as a vehicle to teach science, and second I am helping photographers understand limitations on their ability to acquire images that are imposed by the laws of nature. This work has taken me through the laws of optics, the physics of digital sensors, the physiology of the eye, the perception of color, and now to the psychology of art.