A Coordinated Infrastructure for NMR in the Physical and Life Sciences: Upgrade of the Leicester 800MHz NMR for Structural Biology and Drug Discovery

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Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopists from across the UK and working in a wide-range of research fields have agreed on a coordinated strategy for investment in very-high and ultra-high field NMR equipment. The results of this coordinated effort will provide for UK-wide access to new state-of-the-art capabilities, training and expertise in NMR technology for the physical and life sciences. In Leicester, NMR underpins fundamental and applied science in a wide range of topics, including the understanding of the molecular mechanisms that establish the workings of biological macromolecular complexes in both normal and disease states and crucial research in structure-based drug discovery.We request a contribution of Euro 967,894 (£887,946) from the research council, which combined with Euro 244,758 (£224,541; 20% overall matching) by the University of Leicester, will be used to upgrade our aged and technically obsolete 800 MHz NMR console and probe and expand its capability to include a flow system, direct 13C-detect, 15N-detect and solid-state capabilities. Together, these upgrades greatly enhance the ability to investigate challenging systems using integrated solution- and solid-state NMR approaches at the Leicester site, yielding significant advantages to structural biology for its local and external users.Leicester will allow access via its strategic partner, the national NMR facility in Birmingham, and share technologically advanced methodologies, maximising the impact for the UK research, industry and society, thereby contributing to the UK economic viability and overall well-being.Across the institutions of the UK-wide NMR infrastructure, we will work towards common mechanisms for access and reporting. An annual discussion forum will be established as part of this effort, to give all UK NMR spectroscopists, from academia and industry, and RCUK representatives, an opportunity to meet, to share best practice and confer on all relevant issues.