Martin Gustavsson

Martin Gustavsson is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biomedical Sciences at the University of Copenhagen's Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences. He leads the Gustavsson Group within the Molecular and Translational Pharmacology research theme, focusing on G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) structure, dynamics, and function.

His educational background includes:

• PhD in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biophysics from the University of Minnesota (2007-2012)
• Master of Science in Chemical Biology from Linköping University, Sweden (2002-2007)
• Postdoctoral work at the University of California San Diego (2013-2019)

Gustavsson's research focuses on understanding the molecular details of GPCR function and regulation, with particular emphasis on structural biology, receptor pharmacology, and chemokine receptor signaling. His work combines protein expression and purification techniques with functional characterization through binding and signaling assays (BRET, FRET, radioligand binding, SPR) and structural analysis (cryo-EM, NMR). GPCRs are important therapeutic targets, representing the focus of approximately 30% of approved drugs.

His recent publications demonstrate a strong focus on chemokine receptor structure-function relationships, phosphorylation effects on receptor signaling, and the role of membrane environment in receptor function. The research shows progression from structural characterization to functional implications in cellular physiology, with particular attention to how post-translational modifications create molecular 'barcodes' that regulate receptor activity.

Scientific recognition includes:

• Carlsberg Foundation Research Infrastructure grant for "Uncovering the structural basis for RAMP regulation of G protein-coupled receptors"
• VILLUM Young Investigator Grant (2019-2024) for "Allosteric control of G protein-coupled receptors"
• Robertson Foundation/Cancer Research Institute Irvington Postdoctoral Fellowship
• American Heart Association Predoctoral Fellowship

Gustavsson mentors several Master's students and postdoctoral researchers working on various aspects of GPCR biology. His research is supported by multiple grants that enable cutting-edge structural and functional studies of membrane proteins, with applications for developing new therapeutic approaches targeting these critical cellular signaling molecules.

The Gustavsson Group operates within the Department of Biomedical Sciences, utilizing advanced facilities for protein expression, structural biology, and functional characterization of membrane proteins. The group collaborates extensively with other research teams both within the University of Copenhagen and internationally, particularly with the Rosenkilde Group on chemokine receptor research.