Research into macromolecular structure and function
Recently, Sarah Butcher and Laboratory Engineer Pasi Laurinmäki visited the Eindhoven facilities of FEI, an electron microscope manufacturer. They had a tour of the facilities, and were demonstrated the new microscopes and data analysis software. Cleansuits had to be worn in the assembly area!
Photo courtesy of Pasi Laurinmäki.
Group members of Sarah Butcher’s lab presented their research to undergraduate students from University of Helsinki. The group created models of viruses at 2.8 million times magnification to demonstrate the structure of viruses and their interaction with cells.
Post doc James Geraets at the poster actively discussing with a student
In September, groups from the Institute of Biotechnology (BI) Structural Biology and Biophysics programme descended on the university zoological station at Tvärminne, to spend two days discussing research outcomes, funding applications, and the focus of structural biology research in Finland. It was helpful to relocate to Tvärminne, two hours west of Helsinki, in order to reduce the temptation to spend time in the laboratory during these discussions, and to enjoy the spectacular seaside scenery.
Photo courtesy of Veli-Pekka Kestilä.
The sauna was great, as was the food and impromptu football match (which was, however, enjoyed more by the spectators than the slightly unwilling participants).
University of Helsinki