Axel Brunger

Axel Brunger is a prominent figure in structural biology, known for his groundbreaking work in x-ray crystallography and the development of computational tools that have transformed the field. He created the "free R value," a standard criterion for assessing the quality of molecular models, which has made protein crystallography more accessible. His research has significantly advanced the understanding of synaptic proteins, particularly SNARE proteins, revealing their roles in neurotransmitter release and synaptic fusion. Notable achievements include determining the structure of SNARE complexes and elucidating the molecular mechanisms of synaptic communication, earning him numerous awards such as the Röntgen Prize, the Gregori Aminoff Award, and election to the National Academy of Sciences and the American Academy of Arts & Sciences.   

Education

• Diplom, University of Physics (1980)
• Ph.D., Technical University of Munich, Biophysics (1982)