Dr. Axel Brunger

Professor

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Biography

Axel Brunger is a Professor at Stanford University in the Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology and a member of the Howard Hughes Medical Institute. He is recognized for his pioneering work in the field of structural biology and biophysics, where he has developed tools for interpreting X-ray crystallography diffraction data, revolutionizing structural calculations. His current research focuses on the molecular mechanisms of synaptic proteins that enable nerve cell communication, utilizing single-particle electron cryo-microscopy and biochemical reconstitution techniques. His laboratory has made significant strides in determining the structures and functions of proteins involved in synaptic vesicle fusion and has identified new protein-protein interactions that contribute to synaptic transmission. Among his notable achievements are determining the crystal structure of the neuronal SNARE complex and revealing critical interfaces involved in neurotransmitter release. He has received numerous honors, including election to the National Academy of Sciences and the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, and has been awarded prestigious prizes for his contributions to crystallography and biophysics.

Research Interests

Experience

Professor

— Present

Stanford University • Stanford, California

Teaching and conducting research in structural biology and neuroscience.

Investigator

— Present

Howard Hughes Medical Institute • Stanford, California

Conducting research and mentorship in the field of biophysics and structural biology.

Awards

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Elected Member

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Trueblood Award

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Carl Hermann Medal

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Katz Award

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DeLano Award

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Elected Member

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Gregori Aminoff Prize

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Röntgen Prize

Courses

BIOPHYS 399 MCP 299 NEPR 299 BIOPHYS 300 MCP 399 NEPR 399 MCP 370 MCP 199

Requirements for Stanford University

Doctorate Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.5
TOEFL
Listening
Required:26
Reading
Required:26
Writing
Required:26
Speaking
Required:26
Total
Required:100
GRE General
Verbal
Required:160
Quantitative
Required:165
Analytical Writing
Required:4.5
Overall
Required:4.5
Prerequisites
Bachelor degree from an accredited institution Strong background in mathematics and programming
Application Checklist
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Official transcripts
  • Resume/CV
Specialization Notes

The Computer Science department emphasizes research potential. GRE General is currently optional but recommended for some tracks.