Justin Link

Dr. Justin Link serves as Professor and Chair of the Physics and Engineering Department at Xavier University, a position he has held since joining the faculty in 2008 after completing his Ph.D. in experimental biophysics at The Ohio State University. His research program spans biophysics with emphasis on protein conformation dynamics, and he developed Xavier's Biophysics major to formalize interdisciplinary science education.

His educational foundation includes:

• Bachelor's degree in Physics with Mathematics minor from Xavier University (2002)
• Ph.D. in Experimental Biophysics from The Ohio State University (2008), dissertation: "Ultrafast Protein Conformation Dynamics"

Dr. Link's research employs optical spectroscopy (absorption, fluorescence, circular dichroism) integrated with molecular biology and chemistry to investigate protein dynamics. His dual focus areas—cryptochrome photoreceptor mechanisms in Arabidopsis and heme protein conformational dynamics—explore how site-directed mutations affect protein function. Recent work reveals connections between flavin photocycles, temperature sensitivity, and magnetic field effects in plant photoreceptors, while earlier studies probed ultrafast energy transfer in myoglobin and cytochrome c using femtosecond spectroscopy.

His research program is supported by active NSF funding (Award No. 1658640) for international student research in Paris, with additional proposals under review at NIH and NSF. Dr. Link mentors undergraduate researchers from physics and biology backgrounds, emphasizing hands-on instrumentation training and interdisciplinary methodology. Students regularly present at major conferences including the American Physical Society March Meeting.

Notable recognitions include:

• Undergraduate Research Mentor of the Year Award (2017)
• Joan G. McDonald Award for Outstanding Teaching (2013)
• National Science Foundation IRES Grant (2016)
• Multiple teaching awards from The Ohio State University (2003-2007)

Dr. Link maintains robust collaborations with Dr. Margaret Ahmad (University of Paris), Xavier Biology and Chemistry faculty, and his doctoral advisor Dr. Dongping Zhong at OSU. His lab culture prioritizes student access and interdisciplinary skill development, preparing undergraduates for graduate programs through comprehensive research experiences in protein science.