Bioinorganic Chemistry and Spectroscopy - Thulstrup Group

In my lab we aim to understand molecular structure, function and dynamics through the use of optical spectroscopic methods as well as other types of analytical chemistry. We have expertise in the biophysical characterization of peptides, proteins and nucleic acids in terms of their structure, stability and dynamic behavior.

The aim of our spectroscopic research is typically to understand a fundamental property of a given molecular system: How a protein folds, takes part in an enzymatic process, or undergoes a self-assembly reaction. Typically, we rely on absorbance, fluorescence, linear and circular dichroism spectroscopy, and mass spectrometry to name the most prevalent methods used. Our experimental work benefits from being aided by the application of theoretical modelling.

We synthesize new compounds and conjugates aimed at obtaining new functional properties. We often focus on biological systems, specifically within bioinorganic chemistry at the interface of biological and inorganic chemistry. Current research topics under investigation include synthesis of novel siderophore-antibiotic conjugates and development of well-defined fluorescent silver nanocluster systems.

I am often engaged in collaborative research and I am interested in extending my research network.

As a supervisor, I emphasize that my students should have a large influence on the chosen subject and methodology. I am always open to new ideas and suggestions.

Specific projects that students can participate in right now include:

• The role of metal ions in protein and peptide folding and misfolding
• Structural characterization of fluorescent Ag-nanoclusters stabilized by nucleic acids
• Design and synthesis of novel antibiotic compounds relying on metal ion binding (siderophores) for selective bacterial uptake.
• The study of natural compounds affecting structure and dynamics of nucleic acids
• Orientation and behavior of molecules in matrices such as polymers, lipids, and liquid crystals