Biophysics

Prerequisite: PHYS 243 Biophysics is an interdisciplinary course that bridges the fields of biology and physics. The course introduces the concepts of physics as applied to study biological systems at the molecular and cellular levels. Theoretical foundations of thermodynamics and statistical mechanics that are applicable to biological systems will be used to identify the patterns in life and to provide insights about the molecular driving forces of biological systems. The course will also enhance the basic understanding of the concepts used in cutting-edge techniques that have been developed over the past few decades. The skills developed in the course should be used to understand contemporary biophysics research by reading journal articles. Students will be required to produce a quantitative review paper and present to the class. Offered alternate years.