Overview

The Structural Biology Facility at Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, is a collaborative research facility in which investigators can determine the 3D atomic structures of biological macromolecules by X-ray diffraction analysis of macromolecular crystals.

Researchers using the facility, including crystallography novices, can expect to be trained and mentored to conduct hands-on research themselves within the facility. For trained users, the facility is accessible 24/7.

Along with providing guidance and instrumentation, the Structural Biology Facility also aims to develop new crystallography technologies and methodologies for fragment-based drug design, medium-throughput crystallography and protein production.

Objectives

Primary objectives of the facility are to increase:

  • Access to and training in X-ray crystallography at Mayo Clinic
  • Investigators' ability to determine 3D atomic structures of biological macromolecules
  • The number of structural biology studies funded in Minnesota
  • Deliverables generated, in part, by the results of X-ray crystallography

By strengthening the infrastructure available for structural biology research and protein manufacturing at Mayo Clinic, the Structural Biology Facility contributes to higher quality studies of molecular function and structure, enhances investigators' ability to compete for National Institutes of Health and other peer-reviewed grants, and accelerates the career development of outstanding junior investigators.

About the director

In addition to directing the Structural Biology Facility, Georges Mer, Ph.D., is a professor of biochemistry and molecular biology at Mayo Clinic College of Medicine and Science in Rochester, Minnesota. Dr. Mer's research centers around exploring the DNA damage response.