Barnes Research Group

Exploring how electromagnetic fields shape biological systems.

The Barnes Research Group at the University of Colorado Boulder investigates how radiofrequency (RF) fields, weak and low-intensity electromagnetic fields (EMF), and static magnetic fields interact with living biological systems. Our work spans fundamental bioelectromagnetics — including radical pair dynamics and cellular signaling — to applied questions about cancer growth modulation, bioelectromagnetic safety, and the potential for using fields to communicate with biological systems. We are part of the Electrical, Computer, and Energy Engineering Department within the College of Engineering and Applied Science.

Radiofrequency Fields & Biology

We study how RF electromagnetic fields — including those from cell phones and wireless technologies — interact with biological tissue and cellular processes, with implications for both safety assessment and therapeutic applications.

Weak & Low-Intensity EMF Effects

Our group has demonstrated that weak and extremely low frequency (ELF) electromagnetic fields can measurably alter cancer cell growth rates and influence radical pair concentrations — pointing toward novel, non-invasive approaches to oncology.

Static Magnetic Fields

By manipulating the Earth-strength static magnetic field environment, we have shown changes in stem cell behavior and cancer proliferation — contributing to the theoretical and experimental foundation of magnetobiology.