Brian Clark's Structural Biology Legacy
October 6, 2014
Structural biology is the scientific discipline that seeks to understand the three-dimensional architecture of biological macromolecules—proteins and nucleic acids—and how their precise shapes enable essential life functions. At Aarhus University's Centre for Structural Biology (CSB), which continues Clark's vision, researchers use several biophysical techniques, in particular x-ray crystallography, to visualize these molecular structures 1 .
The scientific focus at CSB centers around the gene expression pathway, studying essential processes of mRNA and protein biosynthesis in molecular detail. Another important area is investigating membrane proteins responsible for transporting metabolites and small molecules across cellular barriers 1 .
Representation of a protein structure similar to those studied by Clark's team
Brian Clark's scientific path was remarkably international and collaborative. He earned his BA, MA, PhD, and ScD degrees from the University of Cambridge, then conducted postdoctoral work in the United States at MIT and NIH before joining the British Medical Research Council's Laboratory for Molecular Biology in Cambridge, UK 3 .
Earned BA, MA, PhD, and ScD degrees
Postdoctoral work in the United States
Joined the British Medical Research Council's laboratory in Cambridge, UK
Moved to Aarhus in 1974 at the persuasion of Professor Kjeld Marcker
One of Clark's most significant contributions was his work on understanding the initiation of protein synthesis. In the mid-1960s, while at Cambridge, Clark collaborated with Kjeld Marcker to investigate how the process of translating genetic information into proteins begins 3 .
After establishing his laboratory at Aarhus University, Clark's team achieved another major breakthrough: solving the structure of the GTP-binding domain of EF-Tu, a crucial protein in the protein synthesis machinery 3 .
Structural biologists like Clark developed and refined a suite of techniques to visualize and study biological macromolecules. These methods form the essential toolkit for understanding life at the molecular level.
Determines 3D structure by analyzing crystal diffraction patterns
Clone, express, and purify proteins for study
Test functional aspects of macromolecules
The field Clark established continues to evolve with powerful new technologies. Researchers at Aarhus University have developed tools like Namdinator, an automated molecular dynamics flexible fitting system that helps build structural models into cryo-electron microscopy and crystallography experimental maps 9 . This tool, and others like it, represent the natural progression of Clark's pioneering work in molecular structure determination.
Additionally, the Danish Center for Ultrahigh-Field NMR Spectroscopy at Aarhus hosts one of the highest-field NMR spectrometers in Northern Europe—a 950 MHz instrument that provides unprecedented insights into molecular structures and dynamics 6 . These advanced capabilities allow today's researchers to tackle even more complex biological questions than were possible in Clark's time.
Brian Clark was not only a brilliant researcher but also a strong advocate for translating basic research into practical applications. He took great pride in facilitating interaction between academia and biotech companies, even founding two biotech companies himself 3 . This commitment to applied science continues today through initiatives like the Brian Clark Biotech Lectures at Aarhus University, which focus on local biotech companies and career opportunities in the life sciences sector 8 .
Clark's vision extended beyond traditional academic boundaries. He established strong connections with research environments and policy forces in countries such as China, and was actively involved in international scientific organizations including serving as President of the International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology 3 .
Throughout his life, Clark provided strong support for young researchers, considering it a major task to help new generations on their way. Many Danish and foreign researchers have benefited from his numerous contacts and encouragement 3 . This mentorship legacy continues through the many scientists he trained and the institutions he built.
Brian Clark remained scientifically active right up until his final days. In his last year, he was responsible for organizing major anniversary symposia in Aarhus, Cambridge, and New York 3 . This unwavering dedication to science characterized his entire career—from his early work with Nobel laureates to his establishment of a world-class structural biology department.
The field Clark helped create continues to thrive and evolve. Current research at Aarhus University explores cutting-edge areas like artificial biology—the attempt to design and synthesize life-like systems from non-living matter 4 . This work addresses fundamental questions about what constitutes life and how it might have originated on Earth, building directly on the structural foundations Clark helped establish.
The department he built continues to produce groundbreaking research, honoring his vision of scientific excellence coupled with practical application.
Generations of researchers continue to build upon Clark's foundational work in structural biology and protein synthesis.
As we reflect on Brian Clark's contributions, we see how one scientist's curiosity about life's molecular machinery can launch an entire field of study, create new technologies, train generations of researchers, and ultimately deepen our understanding of what it means to be alive.