Prof. Assaf Gal
Plant and Environmental Sciences
Very simple organisms evolved an amazing ability to form complex inorganic materials at ambient physiological conditions. These intracellular processes proceed under strict biological control, giving rise to spectacular morphologies that are superior to any man-made material. We strive to understand the biological and chemical toolbox that cells use in order to form these extraordinary structures.
Our main tool is state-of-the-art electron microscopy that allow to follow these intracellular processes in 3D and with nanometer scale resolution.
Field
Biomaterials, cryo electron microscopy
Research Focus
We use advanced electron microscopy to understand the cellular processes of mineral morphogenesis
Model Organism
Major Methods