This $122,745 federal Project Grant from the National Science Foundation's (NSF) Mathematical and Physical Sciences (CFDA 47.049) program will enable researchers at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) to study the ultrafast molecular dynamics and conformational changes in DNA-like molecules.
Professors Katharine Tibbetts and Ka Un Lao will utilize advanced laser spectroscopy and quantum chemical simulations to investigate how specific molecular conformations impact the electronic and vibrational dynamics in the sugar-phosphate backbone of DNA. Their work aims to enhance the understanding of photodegradation pathways in biologically relevant molecules. This research will provide training opportunities for graduate and undergraduate students, and introduce economically disadvantaged high school students to research through summer internships. The project period runs from January 1, 2025 through December 31, 2027.
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