Nuclear Magnetic Resonance

The Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) is a critical piece of equipment used by chemists and biochemists to investigate the properties of organic molecules. It is the equivalent of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Spectrometer, a three-dimensional diagnostic imaging equipment used to reveal detailed images of the internal organs. The NMR allows researchers to study the unique chemical, physical and biological characteristics of molecules.

Picture of the NMR Machine at University of Ghana being filled with liquid Nitrogen.

 

It is used across a wide range of disciplines and professions.

Selected uses of the nmr machine.

1. Chemistry laboratories.

2. Food quality control and research.

3. MRI scans.

4. Identifying human disorders.

5. Cancer diagnosis.

6. Environmental monitoring.

7. Small molecule Drug discovery and development.

8. Metabolomics

9. Application in product development.

10. Aiding manufacturing.

11. Forensic Science – Counterfeits.

12. Quality control.

13. High-order structures in Biologics.

14. Pharmaceutical excipients.

15. Drug delivery.

 

The NMR primarily helps to:

a) facilitate the effective teaching and training of students ensuring the timely graduation of such students equipped with the requisite knowledge for the world of work.

b) act as a high-end equipment that attracts both undergraduate and especially graduate students from all over the world to pursue their degrees at the University of Ghana.

c) raise the level of impact of scientific research in the university and enable faculty to lead research teams and collaborations effectively.

d) enable members of the university at large to bid for and win high-end research grants and raise the level of impact of research in the university to directly affect the university’s rankings and international reputation and visibility.