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  4. DESIGN, SYNTHESIS, AND CHARACTERIZATION OF A 3.2 nm PHOTO SWITCHABLE MOLECULAR RULER FOR ESR APPLICATIONS

DESIGN, SYNTHESIS, AND CHARACTERIZATION OF A 3.2 nm PHOTO SWITCHABLE MOLECULAR RULER FOR ESR APPLICATIONS

File(s)
Joshi_cornell_0058O_12559.pdf (1.64 MB)
Permanent Link(s)
https://doi.org/10.7298/hjm7-jh80
https://hdl.handle.net/1813/120651
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Cornell Theses and Dissertations
Author
Joshi, Naman
Abstract

This thesis presents the design, synthesis, and characterization of a 32 Å photoswitchable molecular ruler for DEER (Double Electron-Electron Resonance) spectroscopy. Aimed at addressing the need for reliable and validated distance standards in pulsed dipolar ESR, the ruler features a rigid azobenzene-based spacer that undergoes light-induced cis-trans isomerization, enabling reversible switching from trans to cis conformation and thus giving a second distance. Its narrow distance distribution ensures high-precision measurements and reproducibility across different instruments and analysis methods. The study also establishes a protocol for the preparation of room temperature DEER samples by embedding the ruler in a polystyrene matrix. Overall, this work provides a versatile molecular standard to support more accurate and consistent DEER measurements in both structural biology and materials science.

Description
64 pages
Date Issued
2025-08
Keywords
DEER
•
Electron Spin Resonance
•
Ruler
Committee Chair
Zax, David
Committee Member
Freed, Jack
Degree Discipline
Chemistry and Chemical Biology
Degree Name
M.S., Chemistry and Chemical Biology
Degree Level
Master of Science
Type
dissertation or thesis

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