This interdisciplinary course explores the physical basis of life by examining molecular interactions, macromolecular structures, and cellular mechanics. Students will learn foundational biological organization, from small molecules and polymers to cells, alongside key physical concepts such as Brownian motion, reaction rates, and the interplay of force and energy. The curriculum also introduces state-of-the-art biophysical techniques, including fluorescence methods, advanced microscopy, and single-molecule experiments, with an emphasis on quantitative analysis and modeling.

This course is designed for advanced undergraduates and graduate students from both physical and biological sciences.

No specific prerequisites.

- Attendance: 10%
- Homework: 20%
- Midterm: 30%
- Final: 40%
- Participation: Extra points

- Jay L. Nadeau, Introduction to Experimental Biophysics: Biological Methods for Physical Scientists 2nd Edition (CRC Press, 2017)
- Wokyung Sung, Statistical Physics for Biological Matter (Springer, 2018)
- David S. Goodsell, The Machinery of Life (Springer, 2009)

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Weeks 1–8: Foundations & Molecular-Level Biophysics
Week 1: Fundamental Principles
Week 2: Building Blocks
Week 3: Random Processes
Week 4: Polymers
Week 5: Protein Folding & Conformations
Week 6: Single-Molecule Techniques
Week 7: Buffer for the 1st Half
Week 8: Midterm
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Weeks 9–16: Cellular & Advanced Biophysics
Week 9: Interactions
Week 10: Reactions
Week 11: Cellular Organization
Week 12: Cellular Signaling & Mechanobiology
Week 13: Neurons
Week 14: Microscopy
Week 15: Buffer for the 2nd Half
Week 16: Final

- Classroom lectures
- Lecture notes will be provided in advance.