# Programmable evolution of optogenetic systems

> **NIH NIH R21** · STANFORD UNIVERSITY · 2022 · $22,853

## Abstract

Project Summary: This project is specifically tailored for the candidate, Nhu Dao, to conduct biomedical
research. Nhu’s research involves evolving novel proteins that can be photo-cleaved using light, allowing for
uses in biological imaging, studying cellular and developmental biology, optically controlled 3D printing, and
more. Using a system that enables a gene to continuously evolve, only cells containing a gene that responds
to specific wavelengths (colors) of light will grow. This process can rapidly evolve this new class of proteins
at an unprecedented pace. Proteins resulting from this evolution will be characterized using techniques from
an undergraduate “Biochemical Techniques” course previously taught by the PI. The project uses hardware
from the parent grant with minor modifications, making the timing and feasibility ideal for undergraduate
research.
 In addition to the research training experience, the candidate will undergo extensive training in ethics,
project management, learning/teaching-related skills, writing, presentation skills, interpersonal skills, and
more. This training will initially take place in a “boot camp” setting and then be expanded upon throughout the
year. Finally, this training and research will culminate in writing about the research in manuscript form and in
a poster that will be presented in several poster symposia. Combined, this experience will boost the
candidate’s career, preparing her for success in biomedical research in a 4-year program, graduate school,
and beyond.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10623650
- **Project number:** 3R21GM143806-02S1
- **Recipient organization:** STANFORD UNIVERSITY
- **Principal Investigator:** Todd P Coleman
- **Activity code:** R21 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2022
- **Award amount:** $22,853
- **Award type:** 3
- **Project period:** 2021-09-15 → 2024-08-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10623650

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10623650, Programmable evolution of optogenetic systems (3R21GM143806-02S1). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-26 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10623650. Licensed CC0.

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