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The Yan Lab at Stanford University focuses on the mechanical aspects of cells, directly measuring and exploring forces and tensions that contribute to biological interconnectivity and the physiological operation of life, which remains largely undetected by existing experimental approaches. The lab bridges molecular and cellular biology, biophysics, and biochemistry, employing cutting-edge tools and instrumentation to innovate high-resolution optical tweezers and fluorescence microscopy imaging techniques for probing live cell force dynamics. This research addresses questions such as the role of forces in spindle anchoring during cell division and the mechanical crosstalk through cellular components like the spindle, cortex, and cell membrane. Through their work, the group aims to unravel the mechanical dimensions of biology, exploring how external physical stimuli affect intracellular processes and signaling pathways that dictate cell differentiation and fate.
The Computer Science department emphasizes research potential. GRE General is currently optional but recommended for some tracks.