PhD in Chemistry - Protein Structure and Spectral Analysis in Denver United States | University of Denver

The University of Denver's chemistry PhD program prepares students for careers in scientific research through advanced training and independent project work. This rigorous program combines challenging coursework with the development of a dissertation worthy of publication, equipping graduates for roles in both academic and industrial research settings. By pairing the PhD with additional professional education, students can also enter interdisciplinary fields blending science with law, business, or public policy.

Every chemistry PhD candidate receives guidance from a dedicated advisory committee that oversees their academic progress and research direction. Our intentionally small graduate program fosters strong student-faculty relationships and encourages peer collaboration, while allowing personalized study plans aligned with individual career goals.

Researchers employ unpaired electrons to examine protein dynamics and measure distances between specific sites that reveal structural and functional characteristics. Techniques include replacing calcium ions with paramagnetic lanthanides or attaching specialized aminoxyl radical markers known as spin labels. Spectral analysis of these probes yields valuable data about protein folding patterns and functional conformational changes.

The program also utilizes spin traps to identify free radicals in living organisms, with applications addressing critical health issues like heart disease and infection-related shock. Our pioneering work in live animal research techniques and instrumentation has become standard practice in specialized labs globally, complemented by MRI applications. Current investigations focus on calcium-binding proteins with tumor-fighting capabilities in their molten globule state, which may also serve as models for neurodegenerative disease proteins when forming amyloid structures.