Andrew Thompson
Papers
1
Total Citations
111
H-Index
1
About
Andrew Thompson’s research has fundamentally advanced the field of macromolecular crystallography, with a particular focus on the automation and standardization of sample handling. His most influential contribution is the development of the SPINE standard sample holder, detailed in his highly cited 2006 paper (111 citations). This work defined a universal sample holder and vial design for cryocooled crystals, enabling seamless integration with robotic sample changers. By modifying and specifying features of existing holders, Thompson’s standard eliminated a critical bottleneck in high-throughput structural biology, allowing for faster, more reliable data collection. This innovation has become a de facto industry standard, directly accelerating the determination of protein structures for drug discovery and basic research. His achievement not only streamlined laboratory workflows but also laid the groundwork for fully automated synchrotron beamlines. For students and researchers, Thompson’s work exemplifies how a seemingly simple engineering solution can have a transformative impact on an entire field, making complex experiments more accessible and reproducible.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1Automation of sample mounting for macromolecular crystallography111 citations · 2006