Amr Sobeh

The ability of molecules to communicate and direct complex processes within our bodies or in the distant reaches of the universe has intrigued me since I was a child. This curiosity grew to an endeavor to study the intrinsic physical and chemical properties of molecules: studying their dynamics with other molecules at an atomic level resolution and adapting them to our uses. This interdisciplinary interest is driving my motivation to expand my knowledge in different areas of science.

I grew up in Cairo, Egypt and decided to study abroad at the University of Nebraska - Lincoln (UNL) (Go huskers!!). I graduated with the highest distinction in 2022 with B.S. in Biochemistry and minors in Chemistry and Mathematics. At UNL, I did research in the Eichhorn lab, where I used structural biology and biophysical techniques (like solution NMR, circular dichroism, etc.) to study noncoding RNA-protein interactions and their role in transcription regulation, and to identify the structural conformation of these proteins.

I am a joint PhD student in the Rabitz lab in the Chemistry department and the Jonikas lab. Here, I will be working on building a quantum-based microscope to detect a target molecule (e.g., CO2) in cellular environment and identify its spatial distribution using tip-enhanced spectroscopy.

In my free time, I enjoy walking, reading and playing badminton.