Meet Dr. Ryan Riskowski
Dr. Ryan Riskowski, NSRI Fellow and assistant professor in the physics department at the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO), conducts research in nano-biotechnology, focusing on the development of nanoplatforms for the remote activation and measurement of targeted biomolecules and cellular activities.
Q&A
Why are you interested in supporting national security?
My efforts are driven by the belief that science and technology provide meaningful contributions to society through directed applications. Leveraging strong collaborations among academia, industry and government advances our collective capabilities, increases the pace of innovation and bolsters our national security.
What national security challenges do you think you could offer your expertise to solve?
Present and future challenges in weapons of mass destruction (WMD) sensing, recognition and human protection require cooperative, multidisciplinary efforts. My research in developing new tools for wireless sensing and remote control of biomolecules has allowed me to work on multidisciplinary teams to advance our fundamental capabilities in these areas.
Read some of Dr. Riskowski’s work:
- Radiofrequency remote control of thermolysin activity | Nature: Scientific Reports
- Observable but Not Isolable: The RhAu24(PET)181+ Nanocluster | Wiley: Nano. Micro. Small
- Enzyme-Catalyzed in Situ Synthesis of Temporally and Spatially Distinct CdSe Quantum Dots in Biological Backgrounds | ACS Publications: The Journal of Physical Chemistry
How do you think your area of expertise can contribute to national security challenges?
Research in nanoscale phenomena and nano-bio interactions continues to generate new approaches to detect, monitor and ultimately deter emerging threats. For example, advances in remote sensing promise increased threat detection capabilities while simultaneously reducing risks for field operators. Additional examples include developments in bio-functionalized nanoparticles for radiation detection, shielding and reactive protection in human personnel.
What do you see in the next five to 10 years in your space that you think is important for national security leaders to consider?
Remotely addressable and programable nanoplatforms present a range of unique advantages and potential threats. Therapeutic interventions can be applied exclusively in the affected tissues, and all dosages can be managed in real-time, as opposed to pharmaceuticals that are distributed to necessary and unnecessary tissues alike. However, should these approaches be used to damage biological systems, they may be difficult to detect or defend against.
Outside of medical applications, nanoplatforms will continue to provide novel methods of sensing and recognition as part of larger detection platforms, or as the platform itself. Integration of nanotechnology into devices for direct and remote sensing is already becoming commonplace and provides unique opportunities and vulnerabilities for detection and recognition that will require specialized mitigation protocols to be developed.
What are you working on right now that excites you and why?
I am currently developing methods to remotely control the nanoscale activity of biomolecules through the application of applied electromagnetic (EM) fields. As a research tool, this non-invasive method of directly manipulating biomolecular activities on command promises discrete control of cellular processes and outcomes. But more generally, just as we have advanced our ability to image at ever-smaller scales and in more complex environments, this work is a part of a larger effort to expand our ability to control complex matter at ever-smaller scales.
Learn more about Dr. Riskowski via his UNO bio.
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About the National Strategic Research Institute
Through the National Strategic Research Institute at the University of Nebraska leading scientists deliver innovative national security research, technology, product and strategy development, training and exercises, and subject matter expertise to the Department of Defense and other federal agencies. One of only 15 DOD-designated University Affiliated Research Centers in the country, NSRI is sponsored by U.S. Strategic Command and works to ensure the United States’ safety and preparedness against increasingly sophisticated threats. Read about our mission.
