My research looks at the nuclear spin physics involved in NMR, focussing on how molecular dynamics can bring NMR magnetisation back to equilibrium (NMR relaxation). When studying large proteins using NMR, the resolution in their spectra is poor due to fast NMR relaxation. NMR is a fantastic technique for studying the dynamics of molecules in solution, but it is difficult to study the dynamics of larger proteins using NMR due to the poor resolution. By looking at the mathematical theory surrounding relaxation, we hope to develop new techniques to increase the resolution of these spectra, enabling larger proteins and complexes to be studied more routinely.

In addition to the project above, I am aiming to perform protein expression and purification of biologically important proteins, particularly those important to protein folding or aggregation. These will then be analysed by NMR to determine their structures and dynamics.

Outside of research, I like to go hiking or to the gym as it helps clear my mind. I can also be often found at one of the many pubs or bars that Oxford has to choose from.

Mr. Satoshi Kishigami is a postgraduate student at the University of Oxford. His research projects focus on the development of novel chemical probes to investigate structures and dynamics of high molecular weight macromolecules, and mechanistic study for potential treatments against neurodegenerative diseases. His study at Oxford has been founded by Keidanren (Japan Business Federation) Ishizaka Memorial Foundation, Ezoe Memorial Recruit Foundation, Shigeta Foundation and Sakaguchi International Scholarship Foundation.
Satoshi holds BSc in Applied Chemistry from Keio University, Tokyo and he also studied synthetic organic chemistry at Rice University, Texas where he conducted a research project about the synthesis of anti-cancer natural product derivatives under the supervision of Prof K. C. Nicolaou.

In my part II research project I hope to further investigate the properties of phase separated protein droplets, and plan to use NMR techniques to do this. Outside of the research, I play for Oxford Universities Quadball Club.

Morgan is a Part II student completing his MChem at Trinity college, Oxford. He is interested in the chemical properties of the Microtubule Associated Protein Tau (MAPT), the aggregation of which is a contributing factor to Alzheimer’s disease and other neurodegenerative diseases. Part of his interest with disease stems from the fact he is a type 1 diabetic.

Outside of research, Morgan plays guitar in an indie rock band and can be found playing at venues across Oxford and London.