Welcome to Radical Research | Dr. Uladzimir Barayeu

Our central mission is to solve the cell radical paradox. While it is clear that radical reactions control both health and disease, nearly 50 years of biomedical research have not produced a clinically used molecule that precisely targets free radical processes to improve health or treat disease.

How can we change this?

First, clinical trials have taught us that general antioxidants fail because they act indiscriminately. To overcome this, we study cellular radical processes with subcellular resolution. We have developed tools that allow us to visualize and control where and when radicals are formed within cells. Second, we integrate machine learning to understand the cascade of biological radical reactions and to predict new molecules capable of modulating them. Third, we study the ancient persulfide-based antioxidant system in mammals, which has been overlooked so far. Our goal is to develop a fundamental understanding of free radical processes in cells to equip future clinical developments. 

Our research sits at the interface between experiment and computation. Within the Biomolecular Mechanics Department, we work in close synergy with Frauke Gräter’s team, bridging radical chemistry and molecular modelling. This collaboration connects atomistic radical chemistry with physiological outcomes. To further test these ideas in vivo, we collaborate closely with Tohoku University in Japan, where I hold an appointment as Affiliate Professor, allowing the student and material exchange. Ultimately, our mission is to transform how we understand and manipulate redox processes in biology.

If you are passionate about the same research questions, you can join us as a Rotation or a Master Student. Please send your CV with grades to barayeuu@mpip-mainz.mpg.de

Currently, we don’t have open PhD and Postdoctoral positions. But we can support an application for an independent funding.