Non-coding ribonucleic acid (RNA) has recently been found to be the key component, often capable of enzymatic action, in a multitude of essential cellular processes, such as gene regulation - through processes including RNA interference and riboswitching -, translation, and splicing. RNA thus is increasingly finding important applications in modern biotechnology and medicine, for example as biosensor and gene therapeutic agent. Just look at recent issues of Science  and Nature .


We explore the world of such catalytic RNAs, or "ribozymes", as well as other non-protein coding RNAs by using single-molecule and bulk-solution biochemical and biophysical tools. Which means that we work on fascinating biological catalysts at the interface of Chemistry, Biology, and Physics.

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NEW!!! A postdoctoral research position in single molecule fluorescence spectroscopy and imaging is available at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. The project involves a highly interdisciplinary, NIH funded project targeted at real-time imaging of RNA folding and function. A highly motivated and enthusiastic candidate is sought either with experience in (single molecule) fluorescence and laser spectroscopies and the enthusiasm to learn biochemical techniques or with in-depth knowledge of RNA biochemistry. Excellent research facilities, including state-of-the-art steady-state and time-resolved fluorescence spectroscopy tools and several single molecule microscopes, are available in our group in the Chemistry department. To apply, please send your Curriculum Vitae and the names and addresses of three references to Dr. Nils G. Walter, Professor of Chemistry and Biophysics, Department of Chemistry, University of Michigan, 930 N. University, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1055, Phone: (734) 615-2060; Fax: (734) 647-1179; email: nwalter@umich.edu.



Please also check out the following press releases on our work: Single Molecule Enzymology and Biosensing, RNA and Water, and Chemical Bonding Center for Molecular Cybernetics. Or our new Single Molecule Center website.

Any questions? Then contact Nils Walter at nwalter at umich.edu