Molecules in action: Using NMR to study molecular structure and dynamics

In our group we use NMR to study the structure and dynamics of various molecules, including membrane proteins and their interaction with lipids.

The study of lipids includes development of lipidomics methods to identify and quantify lipids in complex mixtures from various sources.

We are developing state-of-the-art software and algorithms to analyse NMR spectra and understand NMR experiments.

Finally, we are devoted to provide the best possible education of the next generation of NMR experts through development of novel technologies for teaching spectroscopy at all levels.

Solid-state NMR in inorganic chemistry: developments of new sustainable materials

Our research focusses on applications and developments of solid-state NMR in structural studies of inorganic materials. The main attention is given to less-crystalline and amorphous systems, guest-ion incorporation in functional materials and quantitative experiments in studies of reaction kinetics.
   A major research area is the development of new sustainable cement-based materials, which will be produced with a substantial reduction in CO₂ emissions. In addition, we explore carbonation of minerals and re-carbonation of end-of-life concrete as Carbon Capture and Utilization (CCU) approaches to capture and store CO₂ on a geological time scale.
   Other research topics include heterogeneous catalysts and zeolites (for production of bio-fuels), glasses, and borohydrides for hydrogen storage and for ion conductors in battery materials.

Designing and applying advanced pulse methods in NMR, DNP, EPR, and MRI

Our aim is to develop and apply advanced methods in magnetic resonance to obtain information about structure, dynamics, and interactions of molecular species. This includes biological solid-state NMR, magnetic resonance micro imaging (MRI), low-field NMR sensors, and hyperpolarization methods to boost sensitivity by orders of magnitude. This involves projects spanning from groundbreaking quantum mechanics, optimal control and numerical design of advanced pulse methods towards pure applications where the use of advanced methods provides the entry to unique information about structure and dynamics, e.g. in membrane proteins, amyloids, and catalytically active materials.

Illuminating regulatory mechanisms in the dark proteome

My group focuses on elucidating how post-translational modifications such as phosphorylation regulate proteins at the atomic scale. We use solution NMR and other biophysical techniques, as well as chemical biology and cell biology to characterize the effect of phosphorylation on protein disordered region conformations, dynamics, and interactions. I am driven by interesting biological questions but my interests also include NMR methodology and chemical biology approaches.