UCL Institute for the Physics of Living Systems Annual Symposium 2025

Our goal in organising this symposium is to showcase the depth and breadth of research at the interface between physics, mathematics, computer science, and biology in UCL. We aim to spur new collaborations within UCL and across London by presenting new interdisciplinary approaches to tackle complex biological questions. 

Registration for this event is free but it is mandatory. We have limited spaces so please register early to avoid disappointment.
Refreshments and lunch will be provided.
Please register by 10am on 2nd June 2025 for joining instructions.

Directions: Enter UCL via the Malet Place gate (opposite Waterstones bookshop in Torrington Place). From there, get into the first set of doors on your left (Roberts Building). Access to the Malet Place Engineering Building is via card operated turnstiles. Security staff will be available to assist non-UCL visitors.

Programme:

09.20-09.30  Welcome and Introduction

Session I

Chair: Jaime Agudo-Canalejo

09.30-10.00  Quantum processes in biomolecules: do they matter for biology?
Alexandra Olaya-Castro (IPLS, UCL)

10.00-10.30  Statistical Insights into the Immune Receptor Code
Andreas Mayer (IPLS, UCL)

10.30-11.00  Mechanical regulation of metastasis by the brain vasculature
Marina Uroz (Francis Crick Institute)

11.00-11.30  Break and Discussion

Session II - Keynote Speaker

Chair: Kabir Husain

11.30-12.30  Precision in a rush: decision making in early fly development and signaling pathways
Aleksandra Walczak (École Normale Supérieure, Paris)

12.30-13.30  Lunch and Discussion

Session III

Chair: Nick Bell

13.30-14.00  Enhanced sampling in biomolecular simulations
Edina Rosta (IPLS, UCL)

14.00-14.30  Single-Molecule Mechanochemistry of Force-Sensing Proteins
Rafael Tapia-Rojo (King's College London)

14.30-15.00  Active control of focal adhesions and contractility in cells and tissues
Carina Dunlop (IPLS, UCL)

15.00-15.30  Break and Discussion

Session IV - Keynote Speaker

Chair: Kabir Husain

15.30-16.30  Antigenic waves of viral-immune co-evolution
Thierry Mora (École Normale Supérieure, Paris)

16.30-17.00  Drinks Reception