Louise Darling
Associate Professor of Biological Sciences
Investigating membranes + membrane protein biology and dynamics in the context of human health
My interdisciplinary research progam examines interactions with and transport/communication across the plasma membrane including the actions of antimicrobial peptides, ion channels, and transport proteins. Our investigations leverage expertise and experience in bioengineering, cell biology, and quantitative fluorescence microscopy with project outcomes relating to regenerative medicine, rational design of peptides, and creative microscopy and analyses, all towards developing improved therapeutic approaches for a variety of human diseases and conditions. In the lab, we use classical biochemistry and cell biology techniques in parallel with fluorescence microscopy to study protein functions. Practically, we spend much of our time genetically or chemically labeling proteins with fluorescent molecules and then monitoring and quantifying their localization, mobility, and interactions in cellular systems.
I teach at all levels of the Wellesley curriculum with a focus on cell biology. I typically teach a lecture (and sometimes laboratory) section of introductory cell and molecular biology (BISC 110) as well as cell biology (BISC/BIOC 220). I also teach an upper-level course, biological microscopy with laboratory (BISC 329), which takes an interdisciplinary approach to examine how scientists address physiologically significant questions using microscopy and imaging approaches.
I am a member of the Wellesley Biological Sciences Department, the Advisory Committee for the Biochemistry Program, and the Engineering Studies Advisory board. I am dedicated to Wellesley's inclusive excellence initiatives and adopting pedaogical best practices in STEM. My professional interests also include science literacy and the public perception of science and medicine.
At home, I spend my time with Eric Darling (bioengineering faculty at Brown University), our two young children, and our dog, all of whom provide endless entertainment. I try to keep active as a “retired” competitive swimmer and go running and hiking. I also enjoy gardening, birding, and reading science-related nonfiction (when there is time!).
Education
- B.S., Johns Hopkins University
- Ph.D., Rice University
Current and upcoming courses
Cell biology was born in the microscope, which now allows us to visualize the dynamic processes of life inside cells. This course takes an interdisciplinary approach to examine how scientists address physiologically significant questions using microscopy and imaging approaches. The course’s main goal is to empower students to explore and evaluate the use of microscopy in cell and molecular biology. We study the development and utilization of qualitative and quantitative optical microscopy techniques, focusing on fluorescence microscopy. Theoretical and practical fundamentals are discussed, and student analysis of review and primary literature is integral to this course. Class meetings may include a combination of introductory lectures, literature discussions, student presentations throughout the semester, and hands-on experience in the laboratory where students work with research-grade microscopes. Student-designed investigations will incorporate the expression and assessment of fluorescent protein tags in mammalian cell model systems with an emphasis on experimental design and image analysis. Assignments and activities are designed to help students learn to collaborate successfully to solve problems in an interdisciplinary team.
The course has a waitlist which will operate on a first-come, first-served basis.