Sveriges Unga Akademi

Photo: Markus Marcetic/SUA

About Martin’s research

My research area is structural biochemistry – biology at the atomic level. The chemical reactions that continuously take place in all biological systems, such as our own body, are performed and controlled by proteins. Even though the proteins are very small, a few millionths of a millimetre, they consist of thousands of atoms precisely positioned to provide the protein with its chemical function. By studying this “chemical architecture”, we can understand how proteins work and also learn how to influence them, for example with drugs. We can also create new protein variants with modified functions. To study these small objects, we form and crystallize the proteins, the crystals are then analyzed at synchrotron facilities, such as MAX-lab in Lund, Sweden.

I was Chair of the Young Academy of Sweden 2014-2015.

In brief

Born: 1974
Family: Wife and three children
Interests: Traveling with the family, exercising, alpine skiing, good food (cooking and eating)
Other: Is a children’s instructor in ju-jitsu and enjoys carpentry.

As a scientist, you are not only part of the science community, but you also contribute to shaping it. Young Academy of Sweden is an excellent platform to act from, to try to improve it. Additionally, it is a great advantage to get to hang out and discuss with other young researchers from different fields.