Dr. Liphardt's lab is a biophysics lab that investigates biological spatial organization on the mesoscale (10 nm - 10 microns) and the role of mechanical cues in cellular decision-making. Current research directions include studies of the mechanobiology of tumor progression, super-resolution imaging of protein clustering in membranes, and single-molecule measurements of transport through biological pores and channels.

The lab also invents and refines tools for precision control and characterization of cells and tissues. Control technologies include light-powered proton pumps, which allow them to optically manipulate the proton-motive-force (pmf) within living cells. Characterization technologies include super-resolution light microscopy.