Prof. Dr. Martin Jinek

Area of Research

Description of Research Interest

My scientific interests focus on molecular interactions and systems involved in genome defence and in the regulation of genome expression. I am particularly fascinated by the role of non-coding RNAs and protein-RNA complexes in these processes. The research of the Jinek group currently follows two broad directions. First, we investigate CRISPR-Cas systems and other prokaryotic defence mechanisms, aiming to elucidate mechanistic principles that will advance our understanding of their biological functions in genome maintenance and inform their further development as next-generation genome editing technologies. Second, we explore the molecular basis of eukaryotic post-transcriptional gene regulation, focusing on multi-subunit complexes and interactions in regulatory RNA processing and modification pathways. In our research, we aim to shed light on key molecular mechanisms using a combination of structural, biochemical and functional approaches that incorporate state-of-the-art methodologies including in-cell genome editing and cryoelectron microscopy. Over the past twelve years, our pioneering research on CRISPR has made fundamental contributions to our understanding its mechanisms and played a pivotal role in its transformation into a powerful genome editing technology.

Special Expertise

Genome editing
Technology development and translation
Protein and nucleic acid biochemistry
Cryo-EM
X-ray crystallography

Member of Collaborative/interdisciplinary Research Consortia

NCCR RNA & Disease
UFSP Immugene