Brian Chen

Brian Chen, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor in the Department of Computer Science and Engineering. Dr. Chen's research focuses primarily on bioinformatics and the development of algorithms that make structural observations to elucidate the structural and chemical properties of interfaces formed by proteins. These algorithms focus specifically on the mechanics of binding with other molecules to extract information about function and specificity. He is interested in interactive, analytical algorithms that assist biologists seeking to better understand functional mechanisms in proteins, and also methods that automate the annotation of protein functions and functional components. Recent projects include identifying structural determinants of substrate specificity and structure-based annotation of protein functions.

 

As a key member of the NHI Initiative, Dr. Chen is engaged in research and software development activities. First, Dr. Chen is developing algorithms that enable electron microscopes to conduct fully automatic navigation and image acquisition procedures for crystalline materials samples. These techniques will image materials sample with limited operator intervention so that the samples can be examined offline. Chen also directs the NHI fellows, who collectively aim to develop a prototype Graphical User Interface for operating Lehigh’s atomic resolution microscope.