Biophysical chemistry researchers at Washington University are studying the fundamental structures and functions of biological systems, using advanced spectroscopic techniques and other physical and theoretical methods. Studies range from the light-driven photosynthetic light-harvesting and reaction center electron-transfer complexes, structural and mechanistic aspects of enzymes, DNA, and biopolymers, and molecular imaging utilizing NMR, PET, and optical methods. Students have access to a unique range of sophisticated equipment and expertise for the study of macromolecules, including state-of-the-art facilities in mass spectrometry, magnetic resonance, protein-structure determination and ultrafast laser spectroscopy. In addition to the study of macromolecules with biological or biomedical significance, collaborations involving the preparation, isolation, and purification of biological target molecules and chemical probes using chemical synthesis, genetic engineering, and other methods provide students broad exposure and experience in the multidisciplinary aspects of biophysical chemistry.

Faculty associated with research in Biophysical Chemistry include Joseph Ackerman, Alexander Barnes, Robert Blankenship, Michael Gross, Dewey Holten, Jacob Schaefer, and John-Stephen Taylor.