RESEARCH FIELD

Biophysics

Biophysics applies the methods and theories of physics to understand biological systems at all scales, from single molecules to whole organisms. The field bridges fundamental physics and living matter, using quantitative tools to elucidate protein folding and dynamics, membrane structure and transport, DNA mechanics, motor protein function, and the collective behaviour of cells and tissues. Single-molecule techniques — optical and magnetic tweezers, single-molecule FRET, atomic force microscopy — have enabled real-time observation of individual biomolecules at work. Cryo-electron microscopy has revolutionised structural determination of large complexes at near-atomic resolution. Molecular dynamics simulations running on GPU clusters provide atomistic insight into conformational transitions. Patch-clamp electrophysiology reveals ion channel gating mechanisms. Biophysics intersects with structural biology, cell biology, and bioengineering, attracting funding from NIH, Wellcome Trust, HHMI, and the European Research Council, as well as pharmaceutical companies developing structure-based drug candidates.