Dynamic Nuclear Polarization enhanced MAS ssNMR (DNP Workshop)

Next offering: Next possible offering is February 2027 (3-4 days)

Location: NHMFL Main Facility, Tallahassee, FL
Leaders: Frederic Mentink-Vigier, Faith Scott, Ilya Litvak, and Joanna Long (TDP2)
Last Offered: August 25-28, 2025

In its initial offering (October 2019), this workshop focused on current biomolecular solid-state NMR strategies and making samples for DNP using conventional biradical additives for sensitivity enhancement.

The August 2025 offering of this workshop included discussions of DNP theory and practical instruction in ssNMR technology, Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR), and DNP techniques.  Additionally, the workshop covered sample preparation strategies and DNP data collection workflows, and students participated in hands-on laboratory sessions using a Bruker 600 MHz MAS-DNP instrument and a benchtop X-band EPR system. 

Goals:

  • Learn best practices for biomolecular applications of solid state NMR
  • Develop a working knowledge of DNP hardware and strategies for radical introduction
  • Appreciate the various factors affecting sensitivity and resolution at high magnetic fields for conventional and DNP enhanced biomolecular MAS ssNMR applications
2019 DNP Workshop AgendaDownload
2025 DNP Workshop AgendaDownload

Sample schedule:

Before you arrive: Registration/setup and safety training

Day 1:

Day 2:

Day 3:

  • Introduction to biomolecular MAS ssNMR, isotopic enrichment strategies
  • High-field and low-field EPR for DNP experimentalists
  • Group 1: Practicum on DNP sample preparation, low field EPR measurements, optimization of DNP polarization, measuring enhancements, evaluating resolution
  • Group 2: Practicum on setting up multidimensional ssNMR experiments, analyzing ssNMR data for a model crystalline protein

Day 4:

  • Introduction to Density Functional Theory
  • Sample analyses and discussion of results
  • Career discussion including scientists at different career stages