Paul B. Hopkins

Research Interests

Bioorganic chemistry is the chemistry of life. The Hopkins group brings the experimental techniques and theories of modern organic chemistry to bear on problems of structure and reactivity involving Nature’s molecules. Current projects probe the secrets of Nature’s most magnificent molecules, the proteins and nucleic acids. The small molecules that have predominated in the history of organic chemistry as a discipline invariably play pivotal roles in the projects.

Students in the Hopkins group are exposed to a variety of experimental and theoretical techniques, and learn to think about problems from a variety of perspectives. Electron paramagnetic resonance, gel electrophoresis, and automated solid phase synthesis are as likely to be used as the thin layer chromatography plate or infrared spectrometer of classical organic chemistry. It is no coincidence that so many organic chemists are exploring biological problems: it is a field of great excitement!