Professor Qin’s research focuses on understanding structure, dynamics, and function of RNA and DNA. His group has spearheaded the development and application of a unique biophysical tool, called site-directed spin labeling (SDSL), for studying nucleic acids. He has developed new SDSL methodologies driven by specific questions related to DNA and RNA, and used these expanded SDSL tools to obtain information where other methods have failed. His work aid in understanding basic biological processes, deciphering causes of human diseases, and developing novel nano-scale devices.