Sachal Shaikh

Mary Gates Research Scholar, Autumn 2024

Research Project: Impacts of Chlorine Counterions on the Electronic Properties of Metal-Modified DNA

Project Description: Understanding the impact of the solvent environment on the electronic properties of modified DNA is essential for their use in nanoelectronics and in medicine. We modeled the impact of counterions in metal-modified DNA (mmDNA) using ab-initio density functional theory to model wet and dry conditions. The orbital wavefunctions and charge transport properties were compared for a variety of test conditions, looking at effects for a single basepair as well as a longer DNA chain (7TG6), using the Thymine-Mercury-Thymine mmDNA basepair as a case study.

What have you learned throughout your research project? This quarter, I have had the opportunity to take over as lead contributor for my research project. I have learned how to manage my time properly by balancing my research with school and extracurricular activities. I have learned how to think big picture and tell a story through my research. I have learned how to determine which trends and variables need to be investigated. I have learned how to present my technical research in a manner that is easy to understand but still tells a moving story through the process of writing a research paper and designing a research poster. I have learned the importance of collaboration by working with my PI as well as with my colleagues in the Quantum Devices Lab.

What piece of advice do you have for future applicants? A simple research project is just as valuable as a complex one if you can tell a compelling and useful story with it.