Christian Beren

Christian Beren is a Teaching Professor in the Department of Chemistry at Colorado School of Mines. His research focuses on the physical principles of viral self-assembly, using biochemical and biophysical tools to study how viral genomes and capsid proteins spontaneously form virus-like particles. He collaborates on applications of these particles for therapeutic purposes. In education, he emphasizes inquiry-based methods to enhance hands-on learning in undergraduate chemistry.

He holds a BS from Lehigh University and a PhD from the University of California, Los Angeles. His work bridges fundamental biophysical research with practical applications, particularly in understanding RNA structure's role in viral assembly and developing educational strategies that integrate interdisciplinary research experiences.

Beren's research publications explore topics such as RNA secondary structure effects on capsid formation, enzymatic RNA synthesis, and the design of amphiphilic materials. His studies often employ single-particle analysis and microscopy techniques to investigate self-assembly dynamics. His educational contributions aim to inspire students through project-based learning and exposure to cutting-edge research methodologies.