Crystallography - BSc

Crystallography is the main technique by which the three-dimensional structures of molecules are determined. One advantage of crystallography is that similar methods can be used to determine the structure of molecules ranging in size from just a few atoms to the size of ribosomal particle (in the MDa range). The aim of this course is to provide the student with fundamental knowledge about the crystallographic methods used to determine the structure of crystalline materials, especially single crystals of bio-macromolecules (primarily proteins) and small molecules, covering the main aspects of chemical and macromolecular crystallography from crystallization to structure validation, structural databases, use of large-scale X-ray and neutron facilities and touching on state-of-the-art methods (fragment screening, serial crystallography, electron crystallography). The theoretical knowledge will be reinforced by exercises, including numerical exercises. The students will be introduced to laboratory and computational methods including specialized software and databases used in the field, increasing their digital competences.

Much of the theory is common to macromolecular and chemical crystallography, and for the more specific lectures, equal weight is given to protein crystallography and crystallography of smaller molecules.The students will also gain experience in some practical aspects of crystallization and crystallographic structure determination, through laboratory and computer-based practical classes. The practical classes cover 1) crystallization of a protein; 2) crystallization, data processing through to structure determination, refinement and analysis of an organic salt; 3) molecular replacement phasing and initial refinement of a protein from given data. A lot of weight is also given to training in critical reading, presentation and discussion of original articles where crystallographic methods are used in a variety of contexts, including medicinal chemistry and biotechnology, for example understanding and improving enzymes used in industry for biosustainable applications.

If your study plan allows it, you are welcome to take this course as a MSc student. This is particularly advisable if you want a general introduction to crystallography, rather than intending to apply what you learn immediately to a project.