Alexander Barnes

Prof. Alexander Barnes is a Full Professor at the Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences and Head of the Institute of Molecular Physical Science at ETH Zürich. His research focuses on advanced magnetic resonance techniques, gyrotron technology, and biomolecular structural analysis. Key areas include high-power microwave source development for NMR applications, structural characterization of viral proteins (e.g., SARS-CoV-2), and cryogenic instrumentation for enhanced spectroscopy. Barnes has pioneered innovations in dynamic nuclear polarization (DNP) systems, frequency-agile gyrotrons, and miniaturized superconducting magnets. His work bridges fundamental physics with biomedical and materials science applications. Current projects address protein-membrane interactions, THz gyrotron design, and cryogenic NMR probe optimization. Barnes collaborates extensively with international research groups and industry partners to advance analytical instrumentation and disease-related molecular mechanisms.

Publications reflect a sustained focus on experimental and computational methods for magnetic resonance, including breakthroughs in electron beam modeling, frequency-chirped DNP, and ultra-high-field magnet development. His engineering contributions include spherical rotor systems for magic-angle spinning and lightweight gyrotron cavities. Barnes also leads initiatives in solid-state NMR for drug discovery, particularly targeting protein kinase modulation in T-cells and viral assembly mechanisms.