Welcome to the Gerton Group!

Welcome to the nano-optics and molecular biophysics group in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Utah.

Currently, our laboratory is pursuing two main research thrusts:

• Pushing the limits of nanometer-scale optical microscopy techniques, with the goal of studying molecular-scale biological systems.
• Investigating the fundamental interactions between light and matter at the nanometer scale.

Our research uses a number of state-of-the-art techniques including atomic force microscopy (AFM), single molecule/particle fluorescence microscopy, and single photon counting. Our world-class facilities also include several electron microscopes, a carbon nanotube growth system, a confocal Raman/near-field optical microscope, femtosecond and picosecond pulsed lasers, and much more.

We are also involved in various science outreach activities including developing elementary school science modules, lecturing on science in public venues, and organizing science workshops for K-12 students. More information on these and other educational activities can be found on Prof. Gerton's teaching and outreach website.

Our laboratory is located at the foothills of the Wasatch Mountains in beautiful and vibrant Salt Lake City, just several-hours drive from spectacular National and State Parks, 40 minutes from 7 world-class resorts, and just a 10-minute walk from the beautiful hiking and biking trails. We invite you to explore our website to learn more about our team and its activities. We are always looking for talented students and postdocs, so please contact Prof. Gerton to inquire about research opportunities. We look forward to seeing you here soon.