Research in the Sooter Lab centers around methods of in vitro selection. These methods are used to create molecular recognition elements (MRE’s), or binding species, that have high affinity and specificity for a particular target. DNA or amino acids are the building blocks of the MRE’s in this lab. As part of WVNano, nanomaterials are the primary targets. By combining biology with materials science, novel methods of detection may be created.

Evolution of different bacteria is also a research focus. E. coli and Deinococcus Radiodurans are exposed to defined types of radiation which are present on the Martian surface. Gradual selective pressure is applied and bacteria with a new phenotype are isolated. The whole genomes of isolates are sequenced and analyzed. These new bacteria may one day provide a rich food source for astronauts working on Mars.