Dr. Steffen Graether

Professor

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Biography

Steffen Graether is a Professor in the Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology at the University of Guelph. His research primarily focuses on the mechanisms of protein interactions and the role of proteins in protecting plants from abiotic stresses, such as cold and drought. He has a Bachelor of Science with Honours and a Ph.D. from Queen’s University, and completed his postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Alberta. Dr. Graether's laboratory investigates proteins known as dehydrins, which are believed to bind water and protect cellular membranes from drying, ultimately preventing protein denaturation. His work utilizes cutting-edge biophysical techniques, including nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), circular dichroism (CD), isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), to explore the dynamic structures of these proteins and understand their functions. He is also interested in antifreeze proteins found in various cold-environment organisms and aims to understand how these proteins bind to ligands and exhibit cryoprotective properties. In addition to his research endeavors, Graether is dedicated to educational research, focusing on teaching large classes effectively to enhance student engagement and retention.

Research Interests

Courses

BIOC*2580 – Introduction Biochemistry BIOC*3560 – Structure Function Biochemistry MCB*6370 – Protein Structural Biology BINF*6110 – Genomic Methods Bioinformatics

Requirements for University of Guelph

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
IELTS
Listening
Required:6
Reading
Required:6
Writing
Required:6
Speaking
Required:6
Overall
Required:6.5
TOEFL
Listening
Required:21
Reading
Required:21
Writing
Required:21
Speaking
Required:21
Total
Required:89
Prerequisites
Honours baccalaureate degree in a relevant field or DVM degree Identify a potential faculty advisor
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Official transcripts
  • Two academic reference assessments
  • Statement of interest
  • English language proficiency test results (if applicable)
Specialization Notes

Department of Clinical Studies. Offers MSc by thesis (2 years) and MSc by coursework (1 year).