My research involves using a computer-simulation program to model the movement of a polymer due to hydrodynamic interactions. A polymer is a large molecule made up of repeating structural units. When a polymer moves through a liquid, the velocity and shape of the polymer chain are affected by the properties of the fluid, particularly the drag force. Examining polymer movement in fluids is an important aspect of the study of polymer translocation through a nanopore. This process occurs in many natural systems, such as proteins that enter and exit cells through pores in the cell membrane. In addition, there are artificial systems which may utilize polymer translocation.

 The main goal of the project is to study how hydrodynamic (HD) interactions affect the movement of the polymer as it exits the nanopore. In the current stage of the project, the model consists of a polymer tethered to a wall and the effects of HD interactions are being analyzed. This allows for testing of the new simulation methods used in this research. 

 Polymer translocation through a nanopore has been proposed as a possible method for quick and accurate DNA sequencing. Research done in the area of polymer translocation provides the theoretical information needed to develop this technology.

 To do my research, I needed to learn how to use Linux and program in C. I have been able to combine my knowledge of both to write and run analysis programs quickly. Being able to use one command to analyze numerous data files and produce all the necessary output files was a big accomplishment!