CSDC Seminar – Professor Robert Endres (Imperial College London, UK)
Wednesday, 09 December 2026 at 14:30
CSDC Seminar
Event details
Speaker: Professor Robert Endres (Imperial College London, UK)
Date: December 09, 2026
Time: 14:30–15:30
Location: Harrison Building, Room 170
Title: Mechanical intelligence in chemotaxis: How morphodynamics supports accurate sensing
Abstract: Chemotaxis, the ability of cells to sense and migrate toward chemical signals, is a well-studied phenomenon, yet fundamental questions remain about its underlying physical principles. In particular, understanding the physical limits of chemical sensing, how cells can approach these limits, and how accurate sensing translates into effective migration remains challenging. While chemical detection occurs at the level of individual receptors, the resulting chemotactic behaviour emerges from the coordinated dynamics of the entire cell. In this talk, I will present recent work from my group exploring how receptor organisation, cell shape, and pseudopod dynamics contribute to accurate sensing and migration, revealing how simple physical mechanisms can give rise to remarkably effective chemotactic strategies.
Organiser
Mathematics and Statistics
Location
Harrison 170, Streatham, Campus