PHYC10270

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of this module, students will be able to:

- Understand and explain key physical principles underlying biological structure and function, including forces, energy, entropy, and molecular motion.

- Describe how physical models are applied to biological systems such as membranes, proteins, DNA, and cells.

- Recognize the interdisciplinary nature of biophysics and its integration with concepts from physics, chemistry, and biology.

- Analyze and interpret simple quantitative models relevant to biological processes.

- Identify and discuss key biophysical techniques (e.g., fluorescence microscopy, atomic force microscopy, single-molecule manipulation) and their applications.

- Relate foundational biophysical knowledge to real-world challenges in medicine, pharmacology, and biotechnology.

- Critically engage with scientific literature and landmark discoveries in the field of biophysics.

Indicative Module Content:

The module will cover a selection of key topics that reflect the interdisciplinary scope of biophysics and its applications to modern science and technology. Indicative content includes:

- Fundamental Concepts: Forces and energy at the molecular scale; entropy and statistical mechanics; diffusion and thermal motion in biological systems.

- Molecular and Cellular Structures: Biophysical properties of proteins, nucleic acids, lipid membranes, and the cytoskeleton.

- Mechanics of Life: Molecular motors, mechanotransduction, elasticity and viscoelasticity of cells and tissues.

- Membranes and Transport: Structure and dynamics of biological membranes; ion channels; passive and active transport.

- Experimental Techniques in Biophysics: Atomic force microscopy (AFM), optical tweezers, fluorescence microscopy, and single-molecule tracking.

- Quantitative Modelling: Simple physical and mathematical models for biological systems; order-of-magnitude estimates; scaling laws.

- Biophysics in Context: Case studies from neuroscience, cancer biology, pharmacology, and nanomedicine, including Nobel Prize-winning discoveries.

This content will be delivered through interactive lectures, demonstrations, and guided discussions aimed at fostering a deep conceptual understanding and interdisciplinary curiosity.

Student Effort Hours:

Approaches to Teaching and Learning:

This module adopts a blended and student-centred approach to teaching and learning, combining traditional lectures with a variety of interactive and reflective strategies to promote active engagement and interdisciplinary thinking.

Key approaches include:

- Lectures to introduce core concepts and provide a structured framework for understanding biophysical principles and applications.

- Case-based learning, using real-world examples and landmark studies (including Nobel Prize-winning work) to connect theory with practice.

- Enquiry and problem-based learning, where students explore open-ended questions and develop simple models to explain biological phenomena.

- Task-based learning activities, such as estimating physical quantities in biological systems, interpreting experimental data, and critiquing scientific papers.

- Peer and group work, encouraging discussion, collaborative problem-solving, and exposure to diverse perspectives.

- Optional student presentations, offering the opportunity to explore specific biophysical topics of interest and develop scientific communication skills.

- Reflective learning, encouraging students to connect new concepts with their prior knowledge from physics, chemistry, and biology.

These varied approaches aim to foster curiosity, analytical thinking, and a deeper appreciation of the role of physics in understanding life.

Requirements, Exclusions and Recommendations

Not applicable to this module.

Module Requisites and Incompatibles

Not applicable to this module.
 

Assessment Strategy

 

Please see Student Jargon Buster for more information about remediation types and timing. 

Feedback Strategy/Strategies

• Feedback individually to students, on an activity or draft prior to summative assessment
• Group/class feedback, post-assessment
• Peer review activities

How will my Feedback be Delivered?

Feedback will be provided both individually to students and to the whole class.