Final report

The importance of our research program for the development of Slovenia lies primarily in its acitve integration in the international scientific community working in the field of theroetical biophysics, polymer physics, and soft matter physics in general. The program also facilitates the research in these areas at Slovene universities and research institutes, and it is essential for the development of undergraduate and graduate courses at University of Ljubljana and University of Maribor. In addition, we would like to emphasize the following: A detailed understanding of the physical properties of DNA and its behavior is the keystone of all applications of gene technology, which is experiencing a gradual but steady development in Slovenia. It is expected that the interplay between molecular mechanics - epitomized by the laser tweezer technology - and biology will give rise to new scientific findings as well as to a variety of novel applications. The potential of polar smectic liquid crystals for applications in computer technology and consumer electronics is remarkable. By exploiting the results of theoretical modeling and the understanding of the underlying mechanisms, one should be able to synthesize new materials with the desired macroscopic properties, thereby replacing the usual trial-and-error approach by a much more rational molecular design. The results of the colloidal part of the research program will reinforce the position of colloidal science in Slovenia, which is crucial for the advancement and success of all related technologies both at national and international level.