Standard Program for ScB Biophysics


Biophysics is the study of biology by applying principles of physics in the broadest sense. Brown faculty are active in the following areas of biophysics research: (a) biomechanics of cell cytoskeleton and signal transduction, (b) biotechnology for drug and gene delivery, and (c) molecular structure and function of recepters and ion channels. Biophysics concentrators may perform independent studies in the above research areas, or other areas in biology, chemistry, or physics. Because of this breadth of subject matter, biophysics concentration prepares students for careers in many fields, including scientific research, medicine, and patent law. For the same reason, careful curricular planning is necessary. Biophysics requires a significant level of competence in physics, chemistry, mathematics, and biology. Students interested in Sc.B. (Biophysics) are urged to consult the biophysics concentration advisor at an early stage of their concentration planning.

Requirements:

  1. PHYS 0050, 0060, (or 0070, 0160-formerly 0080), and 0470.
  2. CHEM 0330, 0350, 0360 and one of the following: CHEM 0400, 1130, 1140; PHYS 1150 or 1530.
  3. MATH 0100 and 0180 (or equivalents).
  4. BIOL 0200 and two biology courses chosen with approval of the advisor. Examples include courses in cell biology (BIOL 0500, 1050); physiology (BIOL 0800, 1100, 1190; NEUR 1020); pharmacology (BIOL 1260); and biotechnology (BIOL 1080, 1090, 1120, or 1140).
  5. Six additional intermediate or advanced level courses, chosen from biology (e.g. biochemistry, genetics, physiology, physics, chemistry, and/or computer sciences and mathematics. Examples include biology (BIOL 0280, 0470, 0800, 1190), physics (PHYS 0500, 0560, 0570, 1410, 1420), mathematics (MATH 0520), applied mathematics (APMA 0330, 0340), and chemistry (CHEM 1230, 1450, and 1560).
  6. At least one semester (two are recommended) of Directed Research in biology (BIOL 1950/1960), chemistry (CHEM 0970/0980), or physics (PHYS 1990).

Concentration advisors: Chi-Ming_Hai, Classes of 2009 and 2011; Edith_Mathiowitz, Classes of 2010 and 2012.