Vol. 4 Issue 15 / May 3, 2004
Trond Vidar Hansen
Position: Research Associate in the laboratory of Nobel laureate
K. Barry Sharpless.
Projects: Learning about "click chemistry," a modular protocol
for organic synthesis developed by Sharpless and colleagues, and applying
this knowledge to his project on peroxisome proliferator activated receptors
(PPARs). PPARs are important for lipid metabolism, and are potential drug
targets for diseases such as diabetes and arthritis. "The click reaction
we are currently using between terminal acetylenes and azides is surprisingly
neat," says Hansen. "It has tremendous potential."
Started at Scripps Research: January 2004.
Funding: Hansen's postdoc is funded by a fellowship from the
Fulbright Scholar Program, which was established by Congress in 1946 to
build mutual understanding between the people of the United States and
other countries. "Thank you to the U.S.-Norway Fulbright Foundation for
its great support," Hansen says, "and to Dr. Sharpless and his team for
welcoming me to the lab."
Background: Bachelor's and master's degrees in chemistry from
Norwegian University of Science and Technology in Trondheim. Ph.D. from
University of Oslo. Postdoc at the University of Oslo, School of Pharmacy.
Experience at Scripps Research: "Scripps is a great place. I
have been impressed by the high standards of academics and research. What
amazes me the most is the interaction among scientists in different fields,
such as computer chemistry, biology, and medicinal chemistry. There is
always someone to ask if you have questions."
Career Plans: Hansen will begin a position as associate professor
in medicinal chemistry at the University of Oslo in September. "It would
be wonderful if I could continue to collaborate with Scripps Research
scientists from Norway."
Thoughts on the State of Science in Norway: "Norway is a small
country with only 4.5 million people and an economy based on raw products—oil,
gas, minerals, fish. The Norwegian government is trying to offset these
disadvantages for the country's science by encouraging international contacts
among students and professionals.
"I would like to bring back some of the things I learn in the United
States—not only the science but also some of the means of funding
research and the entrepreneurial spirit—and see if they can be adapted
to Norwegian society. "
Extracurriculars: In Norway, Hansen hikes, swims, and roller
blades in the summer and skis and ice skates in the winter. In California,
he has been exploring the desert, the mountains, and the cities. "I was
pleasantly surprised to find I could ski in the mountains here. I never
would have thought I would find snow in Southern California!"
Send comments to: mikaono[at]scripps.edu
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