Asher Skiles '24 presented his research on chiral active matter completed under the UC Merced IBEST REU summer program.
Skiles utilized hexbugs to model filament dynamics seen in biological structures like microtubules. He developed an experimental setup and a tracking system in Python’s OpenCV, focusing on how hexbugs in chains simulate microtubule movement. His findings revealed that uniform hexbug chains led to faster escape times, attributed to their more consistent directionality despite individual hexbugs moving faster.
Building on his team’s theoretical work, Skiles’ experimental study looked at persistence, rotation, and escape times affected by flexibility and off-axis propulsion. This innovative platform could provide new insights into chiral active filaments, offering a unique perspective in biophysics research.
The event was hosted by the Pre-Engineering and Physics Clubs on Friday, October 14, from 11:10 to 12:10. During the Pizza and Q&A session, Skiles, former president of the Physics Club (2021–22) and vice president of Pre-Engineering Club (2023–24), shared insights on REU applications and transferring to the University of Pittsburgh, where he is currently pursuing an electrical engineering degree.