Integrated Biophysics
Module code
MS206-15
CATS
15
Duration
10 weeks
Teaching methods
You will learn through a mix of lectures and problem sets, integrating physics, mathematics, and computational methods to model and interpret complex biological systems.
Assessment
50% coursework, 50% exam
INS Modules Year 2
Integrated Biophysics
This module provides the theoretical foundations for microscopy and introduces the physical principles underlying biological phenomena as dynamic systems. Combining physics, mathematics, and computation, it covers the wave optics and Fourier analysis needed to understand light microscopy, alongside thermodynamics, statistical mechanics, and stochastic processes as they apply to living systems.
After completing the module, you will be able to:
- Describe various properties of light as a solution of Maxwell's equations
- Illustrate how a light microscope generates an image
- Explain the diffraction limit in microscopy imaging
- Apply the principles of thermodynamics to explain the energetics of living systems
- Outline the role of stochastic processes in biological phenomena
- Use mathematical and computational tools to model and simulate stochastic biological processes