Mittermaier joined the faculty in the
department of chemistry at McGill in 2005 and has used nuclear magnetic
resonance (NMR) spectroscopy in his research to develop an understanding of how
the primary amino-acid sequence of a protein determines its dynamic properties.
His work has also established links between structural mobility at the
microscopic level and functional activity at the macroscopic level.
This year's award focused on the field of
structural biology using NMR, an area of research highly valued by Agilent. To
qualify for the award, a professor must make significant contributions to the
subset of structural biology that uses NMR techniques to improve understanding
of the molecular structure and function of nucleic acids or proteins.
Mittermaier's research has successfully applied molecular biology, mutagenesis
methods and NMR to probe the relationship between protein sequences, dynamics
and function.
"We are delighted to learn that Agilent
has selected our colleague Anthony Mittermaier for this prestigious
award," said professor R. Bruce Lennox, chair of McGill's department of
chemistry. "Professor Mittermaier is a pioneer in recognizing the power of
an integrated dynamic and thermodynamic approach to understanding protein
behavior. His combined NMR/calorimetry approach to sorting out the coupled
protein folding/allostery problem is likely to find widespread application to
many protein systems."
"This year, we were fortunate to
have another group of impressive candidates," said Jack Wenstrand,
director of University Relations at Agilent. "Our winner, Dr. Anthony
Mittermaier, has demonstrated the highest level of excellence and skill in
structural biology, and we are looking forward to following his innovative
research endeavors."
The Agilent Early Career Professor
Award is presented annually to recognize and encourage excellence in
measurement research. It seeks to establish strong collaborative relationships
between Agilent researchers and leading professors early in their careers, as
well as to underscore Agilent's role as a sponsor of university research.
More details are available at www.agilent.com/univ_relation/profaward/index.shtml.
About Agilent Technologies
Agilent Technologies Inc. (NYSE: A) is
the world's premier measurement company and a technology leader in chemical
analysis, life sciences, electronics and communications. The company's 18,700
employees serve customers in more than 100 countries. Agilent had net revenues
of $6.6 billion in fiscal 2011. Information about Agilent is available at www.agilent.com.