Dr. Brian Hoffman

Biography

Brian M. Hoffman is a professor in the Department of Chemistry at Northwestern University, holding a B.S. from the University of Chicago and a Ph.D. from the California Institute of Technology. He has made vital contributions to the understanding of metalloenzymes and catalysis through innovative techniques, including electron-nuclear double resonance spectroscopy. His research primarily focuses on catalytic mechanisms, especially in relation to biologically significant processes like nitrogen fixation and H-atom transfer. He explores key metalloenzymes such as nitrogenase and has contributed to studies on various radical SAM superfamily members, which play critical roles in radical reactions. Hoffman's work also addresses the mechanistic insights of Cu-sites and O2 activation in methane monooxygenases, culminating in a series of targeted studies aimed at correlating synthetic and biological catalysts. His extensive publication record reflects ongoing research on the interface of inorganic chemistry and biology, with emphasis on identifying catalytic intermediates lost in traditional analytical methods.

Research Interests

Experience

Awards