The programmability of DNA makes it an attractive material for constructing intricate nanoscale shapes. One method for creating these structures is DNA origami, in which a multiple-kilobase single-stranded 'scaffold' is folded into a custom nanoscale shape by interacting with hundreds of short oligonucleotide 'staple' strands. Prof. Douglas will talk about his efforts to realize demand-meeting applications of this method, including the recent development of nanoscale devices to mimic cell-signaling stimulation carried out by our own immune systems.