Welcome to Biophysics!

In this course you will learn how the structure and function of proteins can be explained from fundamental physical properties of amino acids and their structure. You will learn how to develop simplified models and reasoning based on physics and free energy to determine what processes are likely to happen, and why proteins look the way they do, and we will apply this while looking at a number of different proteins and systems both inside cells and in their membranes.

After having taken the course, you should be able to

Explain the physical basis of structure and dynamics in proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids
Use thermodynamics and molecular interactions to explain protein folding and molecular properties of amino acids
Describe and practically use methods to model, simulate and calculate how proteins interact with other molecules
Assess the quality and precision of theoretical and experimental physical methods used to study biomolecular structure and dynamics
Have a basic knowledge of modern bioinformatics tools, and how the informatics approach relates to physics
Combine theory and experimental results in biophysics to draw conclusions about biological processes, and use advanced computational tools in your work

The teaching consists of a series of 13 lectures combined with discussions of the previous lecture, three hand-in tasks, and two lab events.

There is no mandatory presence at the lectures, but you must show up to register one of the first 2-3 lectures, or contact the course responsible teacher to complete the registration. However, remember that this freedom comes with responsibility: If you cannot participate in a lecture you are free to download all material, study both slides and the literature yourself - but the teachers won't be able to give you one-on-one assistance to repeat material covered in lectures you decided not to attend.
The hand-in tasks must be submitted on time. This is important both so we have a chance to correct them and give you feedback on time - so it in turn helps you understand the course better.
You have to be present at the computer lab, but when you are present the T/A and teachers present will approve your work right there - no need to submit any report. If you absolutely can't attend, you will be allowed to do it on your own, but then the requirement will be a written report instead.

Ready to begin? Start with the Modules page.