Christian Ochsenfeld

Professor Christian Ochsenfeld serves as Chair of Theoretical Chemistry at the Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry and Pharmacy, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU). His research group conducts cutting-edge computational chemistry investigations at the intersection of quantum mechanics and biological systems.

Dr. Ochsenfeld's research focuses on quantum-chemical investigations of epigenetically relevant enzyme mechanisms, employing highly efficient linear-scaling quantum-chemical calculations within QM/MM frameworks. His group develops and applies fast QM methods that allow describing large parts of enzymes at the quantum mechanical level and performing ab-initio molecular dynamics studies. A notable innovation includes machine-learning based preselection of suitable starting structures for reaction pathway analysis.

• Specializes in computational approaches to epigenetic modifications
• Develops linear-scaling quantum chemical methods
• Applies machine learning to structural preselection in enzyme studies
• Investigates free energy calculations for enzymatic reactions

Professor Ochsenfeld leads Project C04 within the SFB 1309 (Collaborative Research Center) focused on 'Mechanisms and Tools,' specifically examining 'Quantum Chemical Investigations of Epigenetically Related Enzyme Mechanisms.'

Scientific Recognition:

• Recipient of ERC Advanced Grant (March 2024)

As head of the Theoretical Chemistry Group, Professor Ochsenfeld supervises a substantial research team comprising numerous doctoral candidates and postdoctoral researchers. His group maintains active collaborations within the SFB 1309 framework and contributes to the International Research Training Group (IRTG). The research program combines advanced quantum chemical methodologies with biological applications, particularly focusing on epigenetic regulatory mechanisms.