Ruxandra Dima

Dr. Ruxandra Dima is a Professor in the Department of Chemistry at University of Cincinnati's College of Arts and Sciences, with expertise in computational biophysics and biomolecular informatics. Her research group develops multiscale models for biological nanomachines and cytoskeletal components, combining molecular simulations, machine learning, and GPU computing.

Research areas include: mechanical properties of microtubules, ATP-driven molecular motors, protein-protein interactions in cellular processes, and bio-inspired material design. Her work has applications in neurodegenerative diseases and cellular transport mechanisms.

Honors include:

• NSF CAREER Award (2009)
• Multiple Excellence in Undergraduate Research Mentorship Awards
• Cincinnati Chemist of the Year (2023)
• Canada Research Chair Tier II equivalent recognition

Current grants support computational studies of microtubule disassembly mechanisms ($787K NSF) and undergraduate research programs. She leads interdisciplinary collaborations on biological nanomachines and organizes national sessions on molecular machines.