Andrew studied Natural Sciences at the University of Cambridge, as a member of Trinity College. He completed his PhD in the laboratory of Chris Dobson in the department of Chemistry, studying the biophysical properties of amyloid fibrils. He then moved to Toronto to develop novel NMR techniques for studying protein dynamics under Prof Lewis Kay, with EMBO and CIHR postdoctoral fellowships. This work was subsequently recognised by a presentation of a Harrison-Meldola medal in 2013. Since September 2012, Andrew has been part of Oxford Chemistry as both a BBSRC David Phillip’s fellow and a Fitzjames fellow of Merton College. He is now Professor in Physical and Theoretical Chemistry, and a fellow of Pembroke College. He was awarded the 2016 BRSG-NMRDG NMR prize for ‘excellence in magnetic resonance’ as well as an ERC grant in 2021.

Andrew is a keen martial artist, qualifying as a 5th degree Taekwondo master in 2020.

CONTACT INFORMATION:
andrew.baldwin AT chem.ox.ac.uk
Biochemistry building
South Parks Road, Oxford OX1 3QU

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.