Objectives

The Molecular Biophysics Graduate Program offers a vibrant environment for students interested in studying biology from a quantitative, physical perspective. The program is highly interdisciplinary, comprising more than 30 faculty members with diverse backgrounds and interests, ranging from mathematics and theoretical physics to neurobiology and genetics. Using a wide range of biophysical techniques, including X-ray crystallography, NMR spectroscopy, electron microscopy, light spectroscopy/microscopy, and computational modeling among others, these laboratories investigate in atomic detail how proteins and other macromolecules function individually or as part of complex biological systems. Neurotransmitter release, cytoskeletal dynamics, cellular signaling, nuclear transport, ion channels, transporters, photosensors, T-cell receptors, and G-proteins are among the many areas of interest.

A highly interactive atmosphere – catalyzed by works-in-progress seminars, an annual retreat, and the celebrated Molecular Biophysics Discussion Group seminar series – offers all members of the program the opportunity to learn from each other and to gain expertise in many varied subjects well beyond their own areas of research. Ultimately, the mission of the program is to provide students with conceptual tools and research experiences that will prepare them to apply the principles and techniques of the physical sciences to biomedical problems.