Biochemists and biophysicists study the chemical and physical principles of living things and of biological processes, such as cell development, growth, heredity, and disease..
We will explore new technologies, such as atomic force and single molecule microscopy that have allowed research into these areas.
This course will address topics in each of the three major divisions of Biophysics: bio-molecular structure, biophysical techniques, and biological mechanisms..
Biophysics is the study of physical phenomena and physical processes in living things, on scales spanning molecules, cells, tissues and organisms.
Biophysicists use the principles and methods of physics to understand biological systems..
In addition to the discovery of DNA and its structure, biophysics techniques were also used to create vaccines, develop imaging techniques such as MRI and CAT scans to help doctors diagnose diseases, and create new treatment methods such as dialysis, radiation therapy, and pacemakers..
We will explore new technologies, such as atomic force and single molecule microscopy that have allowed research into these areas.
This course will address topics in each of the three major divisions of Biophysics: bio-molecular structure, biophysical techniques, and biological mechanisms..
Biophysical research shares significant overlap with biochemistry, molecular biology, physical chemistry, physiology, nanotechnology, bioengineering, computational biology, biomechanics, developmental biology and systems biology.
Kinesin uses protein domain dynamics on nanoscales to "walk" along a microtubule..
That said, biophysics deals mainly with proteins, lipids, nucleic acids and carbohydrates.
It largely involves the determination of structure and hence the function of a bio-molecule.
It also tries to elucidate the interaction between biomolecules..
The undergraduate major in biophysics is a great choice for students who enjoy math and physics but are interested in problems related to biology or medicine.
The Hopkins major in biophysics has always been a rigorous and challenging major that attracts students interested in biology as well as mathematics, physics, and computation.
