The Baum Lab was established in the Chemistry Department at Saint Louis University in the Fall of 2008. From the start, we have been interested in expanding the capabilities of functional nucleic acids in paractical applications. While we work with both DNA and RNA, we are especially interested in using DNA because of its stability and lower production costs. These interests have led to exciting projects and collaborations!

We use a combination of analytical chemistry and molecular biology techniques in our work. We identify new functional nucleic acids using in vitro selection/SELEX methodologies. Polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE), PCR, UV-Vis spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, cyclic voltametry, molecular cloning, and protein expression are just some of the techniques that lab members learn.

The Baum Squad is made up of a mix of grad and undergrad researchers, with high school students joining us during the summer, including from the STARS program. Graduate students have found jobs in industry and in academics, while undergrads have pursued graduate and professional school, as well as positions in industry.