Introductory description

This module explores the intersection of physics and biology, unraveling the fundamental principles governing living systems. The journey begins delving into the multidisciplinary nature of this field and its historical context, and moves onto elucidate the role of energy, entropy, and molecular forces in biological interactions. We emphasize the structure and function of proteins, nucleic acids, lipids, and carbohydrates, and explore diffusion, membrane potentials, and active transport mechanisms.

The module progresses to the application of thermodynamics in cellular processes, examining energy transfer and redox reactions. Unveiling the statistical underpinnings of molecular populations and the dynamics of biological reactions, integrating computer simulations for comprehensive understanding. We dissect the mechanical properties at various scales, including molecular, cellular, and tissue levels, including the physical properties that underpin the electrophysiology of neural signaling, and unraveling the electrical properties of living cells and synaptic communication. Finishing with quantum mechanics and it's role in biophysical methods and biological reactions, and concluding with "Emerging Frontiers in Physics of Life," exploring cutting-edge topics like synthetic biology and quantum biology.

Complementing theoretical knowledge, practical workshops equips students with hands-on experience using molecular dynamics simulations, and interpreting experimental data from various techniques.

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

A series of lectures and workshops aimed at delivering the following concepts

Introduction to Biophysics

Basic principles of Biological Physics

Application of Thermodynamics to Cellular Processes

Statistical Mechanics and Kinetics of Biological Systems

Biological Macromolecules

Transport Phenomena in Cells

Forces and Mechanics in Biological Systems

The brain as an electrical circuit: Electrophysiology and Neural Signaling

Quantum Mechanics in Biochemistry

Emerging Frontiers in Physics of Life

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• A foundational Understanding of Biophysics
• Understanding of Biological Physics Principles:
• Application of Thermodynamics to Cellular Processes
• Proficiency in Statistical Mechanics and Kinetics
• Understanding Physical Properties of Biological Macromolecules
• Exploration of Transport Phenomena in Cells
• Evaluation of the Forces and Mechanics in Biological Systems
• A comprehensive Knowledge of Electrophysiology and Neural Signalling
• Integration of Quantum Mechanics in Biochemistry
• Exploration of Emerging Frontiers in Physics of Life

Subject specific skills

1. Multidisciplinary Understanding of biophysics: Develop an overview of biophysics, grasping its multidisciplinary nature and the significance of physics in understanding biological systems.

2. Historical Contextualization of biophysics: Understand the historical development of biophysics, recognizing key contributors and milestones in the field.

3. Understanding Thermodynamics: Apply the laws of thermodynamics to living systems, analyzing energy balance, thermodynamic coupling, and electron transfer in cellular processes.

4. Evaluating Molecular Forces: Evaluate molecular forces, including van der Waals and electrostatic interactions, and their role in biological interactions.

5. Understanding Biological Macromolecules: Evaluate the structure and functional properties of proteins, nucleic acids, lipids, and carbohydrates. Analyze the folding, stability, and interactions of macromolecules.

6. Assessing Transport Phenomena: Analyze diffusion and its impact on cellular dynamics. Evaluate passive diffusion, ion channels, and active transport mechanisms along with their energetics.

7. Competency in Forces and Mechanics: Assess mechanical properties of cells, tissues, and biomaterials. Analyze forces and mechanics at the molecular and cellular scales, incorporating the roles of motor proteins. Evaluate cellular responses to mechanical stimuli and biomechanical aspects of locomotion and muscle function.

Transferable skills

1. Interdisciplinary Integration: Synthesize knowledge from diverse fields, demonstrating the ability to understand and integrate concepts from both physics and biology in biophysics.

2. Critical Thinking and Problem Solving: Apply principles of energy, thermodynamics, and statistical mechanics to analyze and solve complex problems in biological systems, fostering critical thinking skills.

3. Quantitative Analysis: Utilize quantitative skills for the analysis of biological phenomena, including the application of statistical mechanics, kinetic equations, and molecular dynamics simulations.

4. Computational Proficiency: Develop proficiency in molecular modelling software, demonstrating hands-on skills in molecular dynamics simulations and the analysis of biomolecular systems.

5. Data Integration and Interpretation: Integrate experimental data from various techniques, demonstrating the ability to perform statistical analysis and interpret results, thereby enhancing data integration skills applicable across scientific domains.

6. Statistical Mechanics Proficiency: Apply statistical mechanics to comprehend biological systems, including Boltzmann distribution, mass action law, and the dynamics of equilibrium in biological reactions.