This month, three researchers explain how quantum theory is being applied to their own work in this cutting-edge field of scientific discovery.

Nigel Scrutton explores proton tunnelling in enzymes, Alexandra Olaya-Castro discusses her latest research in photosynthesis and Jenny Brookes explains her work on a quantum model of olfaction.

Nigel Scrutton is Professor of Molecular Enzymology at the University of Manchester and Director of the Manchester Institute of Biotechnology. His research focusses on the mechanisms, structures and exploitation of enzyme catalysts and light-activated proteins. https://twitter.com/nigel_scrutton

Alexandra Olaya-Castro leads a research group on the quantum mechanics of biomolecular processes in the Department of Physics and Astronomy, University College London. They explore the possible roles that quantum phenomena may play in biomolecular functions. http://www.ucl.ac.uk/~ucapaol/

Jennifer Brookes is a researcher at London Centre for Nanotechnology, UCL, and carries out computer simulations on the quantum physics at work in biological processes. https://twitter.com/jcbrookes

Image credit: Khopkins2010, Ubiquitin-activating enzyme bound to the ubiquitin substrate

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