There are strong reasons to pursue novel models of computing. I think that new computing concepts will in the future play an increasing role in the field of computer science. (You may want the rationale for this viewpoint.)
Molecular interactions can provide the physical basis for unconventional computers. There is no doubt that molecular systems are capable of performing impressive information processing functions---we carry the proof in our heads. Molecular materials also are expected to become an important substrate for artificial computing devices. They may allow for the miniaturization of conventional (solid state) electronics into molecular electronics. Moreover, they have potential for the implementation of entirely new concepts of computing.
My long term goal is the development of molecular computing architectures that do not mimic traditional machines, but instead address problems for which conventional computers are not well suited.
The focus of my research is on molecular architectures that allow for structure changes. This is common in biological systems, but in sharp contrast to conventional computers that are based on state changes in a fixed structure. To address the role of dynamically changing structures in biological information processing I designed and implemented the CKSD Simulator. It serves as a tool to investigate the interplay of conformation, kinetics, structure, and dynamics in complex biochemical networks.
Not only do I have the luck to do exactly what I am interested in for my dissertation, but on top of that I am working in the stimulating and exciting atmosphere of Michael Conrad`s BioComputing Group. (You can get a feel for his philosophy from chapter six of Janine Benyus' book Biomimicry, New York: Morrow, 1997).
Living in the USA has some disadvantages, though. One is, that you pretty much have to bake your own bread.
© K.-P. Zauner, 1999. This is: http://www.cs.wayne.edu/~kjz/