Programmable Biomaterials Laboratory

The Programming Biomaterials Laboratory (PBL) at EPFL, led by Maartje Bastings, specializes in DNA-nanotechnology, supramolecular polymer self-assembly, and cellular particle uptake. They focus on developing nanomaterials with programmable binding affinity profiles by leveraging the spatial organization of molecules, particularly DNA. Research projects include selective multivalent targeting, nucleation and growth of semi-crystalline surfaces, and geometry-based immune-engineering. PBL's work aims to advance the design of next-generation targeting nanoparticles and biomaterials through precise control over material parameters and spatial organization. The lab heavily relies on quantification of binding kinetics and fundamental theories of physical polymer behavior to understand the impact of molecular control on macroscopic performance.