Contributors:

• 
  Anne Mayer
  
  
  
  
  


• 
  Dr. Kevin Hares
  
  
  
  • 
    LinkedIn
    
  
  
  
  

In this episode of Innovate and React  Anne Mayer, a PhD researcher at
Goethe-Universität Frankfurt, explains how solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy works and how she uses this analytical method for protein studies. We dive into the fascinating world of NMR—from the basics of nuclear spins and magnetic fields to the complex hardware challenges of solid-state NMR. Anne shares how she investigates membrane proteins and microbial rhodopsins, revealing how solid-state NMR provides insights into protein dynamics and optogenetics. We also discuss the importance of fundamental research, future developments in solid-state NMR, and the interdisciplinary collaboration behind cutting-edge chemical research.

Key Topics (with timestamps):

1. Introduction to NMR and Anne’s journey into the field – [00:00:01 ]





2. How NMR works: spins, magnetic fields, and Fourier transformation – [00:04:35 ]





3. Solid-state NMR: magic angle spinning, sample preparation, and challenges – [00:21:12 ]





4. Anne’s research on microbial rhodopsins and optogenetics applications – [00:44:46 ]





5. Future of NMR: hardware improvements, AI in analysis, and interdisciplinary science – [01:06:20 ]

Further reading to dig deeper into NRM:

• James Keeler, Understandin NMR Spectroscopy (ISBN: 978-0470746080)





• Malcolm H. Levitt, Spin Dynamics: Basics of Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (ISBN: 978-0470511176)

If you speak German, then check out Annes Podcast “Darf’s ein bisschen Chemie sein?” to learn about a broad variety of chemistry related topics.

For more about proteins in this podcast checkout Mitochondrial Biogenesis – How mitochondria get their spare parts.

📩 Got a topic, guest idea, or want to talk about your research? Email me at contact@innovateandreact.com
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