Ching-Hwa Kiang

(presenting on November 19, 2025)

Listening to Molecules and Cells: Force Spectroscopy as a New Paradigm for Decoding Life's Secrets

Abstract

What if we could listen to the unique "voice" of a molecule or a cell? The mechanical response of these systems, measured through force spectroscopy, provides a distinct signature that can reveal their condition. Using an atomic force microscope (AFM), we are developing a new method to classify the state of biomolecules and cells based on their mechanical properties. This approach has the potential to surpass traditional biochemical assays by introducing a new class of mechanical biomarkers. In this talk, I will share our research on a diverse range of systems, from protein folding to the unique mechanical signatures of cancer cells. Our work aims to utilize these "force signatures" to categorize the condition of a molecule or a cell, ultimately offering a powerful new tool for personalized medicine.

Speaker Bio

Professor Ching-Hwa Kiang is a faculty member in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at Rice University. She is a co-discoverer of single-walled carbon nanotubes, whose groundbreaking contributions have significantly advanced modern nanotechnology. Dr. Kiang's current research employs advanced force spectroscopy techniques to tackle fundamental questions in biological physics, with potential applications in medicine and space exploration. Her work offers insights into several areas, including protein and DNA mechanics, virus binding, and cancer cell mechanics. She is actively pioneering a new approach to utilizing force spectroscopy, aiming to integrate artificial intelligence to develop a new generation of medical diagnostics. Dr. Kiang is also an elected fellow of the American Physical Society and a recipient of the 2007 Best of Small Tech Researcher of the Year award.