Biophysics

A journal club. Students present recent research papers in biophysics and/or report on progress of their own research projects. Students learn how to effectively read, critique, and present science research progress.

A detailed introduction into macromolecular X-ray crystallography and cryo electron microscopy. The course will cover principles of diffraction physics, crystallographic symmetry, diffraction data collection and processing, as well as model building and refinement. This session also includes a series of hands-on session where students process and interpret diffraction data.

Exploration of magnetic resonance spectroscopy as it is applied to biopolymers. Data collection for structure determination, residual dipolar couplings, approaches to large systems, and the use of NMR to deduce information about the dynamic behavior of proteins will be covered. Finally, principles of electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy will be presented. Prerequisite: BIOP 8030, Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy of Macromolecules I

This course will introduce students to the theory, principles, and applications of the major techniques in cellular biophysics. Lectures will include practical background on instrumentation and data interpretation. A central focus will be on fluorescent microscopy and spectroscopy techniques. This course will also explore principles and methodologies of mechanobiology (e.g. Optical Tweezers, Atomic Force Microscopy).

For doctoral research, taken under the supervision of a dissertation director.