MRI-R2: Acquisition of an 850 MHz NMR Spectrometer for Interdisciplinary Research at the University of Delaware

University Of Delaware, Newark DE

Investigators

Abstract

This award is funded under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (Public Law 111-5). With this award from the Major Research Instrumentation (MRI) program Professor Tatyana Polenova and colleagues Cecil R. Dybowski and Sharon Rozovsky from the Chemistry and Biochemistry Department at the University of Delaware will acquire a very specialized 750 MHz NMR spectrometer with a series of probes that will support research in solutions and solids. The instrument will be used to support exciting research activities in areas such as: 1) biophysical and bioinorganic chemistry; 2) structural biology of proteins and protein assemblies; 3) materials for photonics, alternative energy, and environmental remediation applications; 4) bioengineering and biomaterials; and 5) molecular cell biology. Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy is one of the most powerful tools available to chemists for the elucidation of the structure of molecules. It is used to identify unknown substances, to characterize specific arrangements of atoms within molecules, and to study the dynamics of interactions between molecules in solution. A high-field NMR spectrometer provides exceptional sensitivity. Access to state-of-the-art NMR spectrometers is essential to chemists who are carrying out frontier research. The results from these NMR studies will have a positive impact in synthetic organic/inorganic chemistry, materials chemistry, the environment and biochemistry. This instrument will be an integral part of teaching as well as research.