Dr. Michael Schurr

Professor

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Biography

J. Michael Schurr is a Professor Emeritus in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Washington. He received his Ph.D. from the University of California, Berkeley, in 1965. His research interests lie primarily in the field of biophysics, with a focus on laser optical techniques and NMR relaxation methods to study the dynamics of biophysically important macromolecules, including DNA. Schurr's work investigates key aspects such as the effects of perturbations on twisting and bending rigidities, long-range changes in secondary structure induced by sequence changes, and binding interactions with regulatory proteins. He is noted for developing advanced optical techniques like fluorescence polarization anisotropy (FPA), transient polarization grating (TPG) methods, and coherent dynamic light scattering (DLS) to monitor molecular dynamics and behaviors of biomolecules. Schurr's research also embraces the thermodynamics of supercoiled DNAs and employs Monte Carlo simulations to explore thermodynamic and structural properties of such configurations. His ongoing contributions to the field are supported by novel analytical theories and algorithms in multiple domains of physical chemistry, including hydrodynamics and quantum mechanics.

Research Interests

Requirements for University of Washington

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
TOEFL
Total
Required:80
IELTS
Overall
Required:6.5
Duolingo
Overall Score
Required:105
Overall
Required:105
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Transcripts
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Letters of Recommendation
  • Resume/CV
  • English proficiency scores (for international students)
Specialization Notes

Standard Graduate School requirements for University of Washington apply to most departments listed unless specified otherwise by the program.