Next generation Single-Molecule Biophysics (SMBioNext)​

21- 22 May 2026 
The Diamond, The University of Sheffield
Organisers: Ruby Peters and Matthew Netwon (University of Sheffield)

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Overview

This workshop will bring together early career researchers (ECRs) from Physics, Biology and related applied disciplines to explore how state-of-the-art single-molecule technologies can revolutionise our understanding of biological functions across scales. It will be held alongside the UK and Ireland Single-molecule Biophysics 2026 Meeting ( SMBio 2026 ) at the University of Sheffield, using one of its core sessions as a bridge between the two interconnected events.

​A particular focus of the workshop will be on emerging technologies in single-molecule science, exploring how these approaches can reveal fundamental mechanisms in biology. Participants will engage in active discussions and collaborative activities designed to break down disciplinary barriers and inspire new approaches to complex biological
problems.

The standout feature of the workshop will be cutting-edge technology demonstrations, where ECR participants will gain hands-on experience with several single-molecule technologies, including optical-tweezers, atomic force microscopy, single-molecule fluorescence spectroscopy and live cell single particle tracking. Through talks, demonstrations and structured discussions, overall, we will explore how these approaches can be democratised and combined to push the boundaries of modern biophysics.

Provisional Programme

Thursday, 21st May - The Diamond, The University of Sheffield
13:30 - 14:30 Keynote: Gijs Wuite - “Elucidating the mechanics and structure of whole
mitotic chromosomes”
15:00 - 17:00 Local hike from The Diamond to the Peak District
17:30 - 20:00 Dinner at Norfolk Arms

Friday, 22nd May
08:30 - 09:00 Coffee
09:00 - 10:30 Technology Demonstration Choice 1
11:00 - 12:30 Technology Demonstration Choice 2
12:30 - 13:30 Lunch
13:30 - 14:30 Flash Talks
14:30 - 16:30 Break-out Group Discussion
16:30 - 16:50 Discussion Feedback and Next-steps
16:50 - 17:00 Close

Venue

The Diamond, The University of Sheffield
32 Leavygreave Rd, Broomhall, Sheffield S3 7RD
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The Diamond is a 25 minute walk or 10 minute taxi ride from Sheffield Train Station.
The nearest car park is Q-Park Rockingham Street, 2 Holland Street, Sheffield S1 4NL and
costs £22 for 24 hours.

​Travel Award

We are pleased to be able to offer five travel awards (£175 each) to early career researchers interested in attending the workshop. 

​Registration

Registration will open shortly. 
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Please note workshop places are limited to 40 participants and allocated on a first come first served basis.