USC.edu

Peter Qin

Professor of Chemistry
Pronouns Name Only OR Use My Name Email pzq@usc.edu Office LJS 251 Office Phone (213) 821-2461

Education

  • Ph.D. Biophysics, Columbia University, 1/1999
  • B.S. Physics, Peking University, China, 7/1991
    • Postdoctoral Research Fellow, UCLA, 02/1999-07/2002

  • Tenure Track Appointments

    • Associate Professor, Department of Chemistry, University of Southern California, 04/2009 –
    • Assistant Professor, Department of Chemistry, University of Southern California, 08/2002 – 04/2009

  • Summary Statement of Research Interests

    Professor Qin’s research focuses on understanding structure, dynamics, and function of RNA and DNA. His group has spearheaded the development and application of a unique biophysical tool, called site-directed spin labeling (SDSL), for studying nucleic acids. He has developed new SDSL methodologies driven by specific questions related to DNA and RNA, and used these expanded SDSL tools to obtain information where other methods have failed. His work aid in understanding basic biological processes, deciphering causes of human diseases, and developing novel nano-scale devices.

    Research Keywords

    site-directed spin labeling (SDSL), RNA, DNA, structure, dynamics, function, motors, packaging RNA

    • National Science Foundation CAREER award, 2006-2011