Biophysics is the study of biology by applying principles of physics in the broadest sense. Brown faculty are active in the following areas of biophysics research: biomechanics of cell cytoskeleton and signal transduction, biotechnology for drug and gene delivery, and c) molecular structure and function of receptors and ion channels. Biophysics concentrators may perform independent studies in the above research areas, or other areas in biology, chemistry, or physics. Because of this breadth of subject matter, biophysics concentration prepares students for careers in many fields including scientific research, medicine, and patent law. For the same reason, careful curricular planning is necessary. Biophysics requires a significant level of competence in physics, chemistry, mathematics, and biology. Students interested in Sc.B. (Biophysics) are encouraged to consult the biophysics concentration advisor at an early stage of their concentration planning.
2. CH 33, 35, 36 and one of the following: CH 40, 114, PH 153.
3. MA 10 and 18 (or equivalents).
4. BI 20, and two biomed courses chosen with approval of the advisor. Examples include courses in cell biology (BI 50, 105 or 106), physiology (BI 110, 119, BN 102), pharmacology (BI 126), and biotechnology (BI 108, 109, 112, 114).
5. Six additional intermediate or advanced level courses, chosen from the biology (e.g. biochemistry, genetics, physiology, physics, chemistry, and/or computer sciences and mathematics. Examples include biology (BI 28, 47, 80, 110, 119), physics (PH 50, 56, 141, 142), mathematics (MA 52), applied mathematics (AM 33, 34), and chemistry (CH 123, 145 and 156).
6. At least one semester (two are recommended) of Directed Research in biology (BI 195,196), chemistry or physics.
Chi-Ming Hai, Classes of 2007 and 2009.
Edith Mathiowitz, Classes of 2006 and 2008.
Page last updated in April, 2006.