Julien Furrer

Prof. Dr. Julien Furrer is an Associate Professor at the University of Bern, Switzerland, where he serves as the Head of the NMR Spectroscopy group within the Department of Chemistry, Biochemistry and Pharmacy. With over two decades of experience in NMR spectroscopy and ruthenium-based drug research, he leads a dynamic research team focused on developing novel NMR methodologies and investigating the cytotoxic effects of metal complexes in biological systems.

Education

• 1993-1998: Diploma studies in Chemistry and Physical Chemistry, University Louis Pasteur of Strasbourg
• 1998-2001: PhD in Physical Chemistry, University Louis Pasteur, Strasbourg

Research Interests

Prof. Furrer's research spans multiple domains of NMR spectroscopy and medicinal chemistry. His primary focus is on developing novel experimental methods in nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, with applications to structural studies of biopolymers and organic compounds. Recently, his group has expanded into investigating the cytotoxic effect of various ruthenium complexes in cancer cells, exploring mechanisms through comprehensive NMR measurements. His work bridges fundamental NMR methodology with practical applications in drug discovery and development.

His research portfolio includes:

• High Resolution Magic Angle Spinning (HRMAS) NMR techniques
• Solution structural studies of proteins and bioactive compounds
• Cellular targets and mechanistic profiles of ruthenium-based drugs
• Experimental NMR methodology development
• Metabonomic studies using NMR spectroscopy

Scientific Awards and Recognition

• Alexander von Humboldt Postdoctoral Research Fellowship

Mentoring and Research Leadership

As Head of the NMR Spectroscopy group at the University of Bern since 2011, Prof. Furrer has established a robust research program that combines fundamental NMR methodology development with applied research in medicinal chemistry. His laboratory operates multiple NMR spectrometers and provides NMR services to the broader research community. He has successfully secured research funding to support his investigations into ruthenium-based anticancer agents and NMR methodological advances.

Research Facilities and Team

Prof. Furrer leads the NMR facility at the University of Bern, which includes multiple spectrometers (300 MHz, 400 MHz, and 500 MHz systems). His research group focuses on both methodological developments in NMR and applications to biological and medicinal chemistry problems. The team collaborates extensively with other research groups at the University of Bern, including Prof. Reymond's group, and maintains international collaborations. The facility provides comprehensive NMR services to researchers both within and outside the university, supporting a wide range of scientific investigations requiring advanced NMR capabilities.