MRI: Acquisition of a Multipurpose X-Ray Diffraction System for Chemical and Biochemical Research, Training, and Undergraduate Education.

University Of San Diego, San Diego CA

Investigators

Abstract

With this award from the Major Research Instrumentation (MRI) Program, Professor Christopher Daley from University of San Diego and colleagues Mitchell Malachowski and Robert Dutnall will acquire an X-ray diffractometer. The award will enhance research training and education at all levels, especially in areas such as (a) studies of metal organic frameworks (MOFs) using molybdenum and copper compounds, (b) protein screening, (c) synthetic analogues of enzymes, and (d) chiral catalysts. An X-ray diffractometer allows accurate and precise measurements of the full three dimensional structure of a molecule, including bond distances and angles, and provides accurate information about the spatial arrangement of a molecule relative to neighboring molecules. The studies described here will impact a number of areas, including organic and inorganic chemistry, materials chemistry and biochemistry. This instrument will be an integral part of teaching and research at the University of San Diego as well as neighboring colleges such as Point Loma Nazarene University, California State San Marcos and Southwestern Community College.