Course Details in 2025/26 Session

Module Title	LH Biophysics
School	Physics and Astronomy
Department	Physics & Astronomy
Module Code	03 38944
Module Lead	Professor Dylan Owen
Level	Honours Level
Credits	10
Semester	Semester 1
Pre-requisites
Co-requisites
Restrictions	None
Exclusions
Description	This module will provide a broad introduction to Biophysics, that is, how the theories and techniques from Physics can be applied to living, biological systems. We assume no prior knowledge of biology and so the module starts with a short introduction to biochemistry and cell biology. The module will then cover how biomolecules can be treated as machines, generating forces and consuming energy drawing on specific examples, for example how the cell skeleton allows cells to migrate. We will then analyse how biomolecules (enzymes) can regulate the chemical reactions that occur in cells and how these can be targeted by drugs, for example to treat disease. Finally, we will explore the electrical properties of nerve cells and how information is transmitted around the body. Along the way, we will learn the operation of key physical instruments used in the life-sciences, for example different types of microscopes and also touch on biological methods such as genetic engineering and cell culture.
Learning Outcomes	By the end of the module students should be able to: Describe the differences between living things and non-living things, plant and animal cells Describe key cellular structures and processes Demonstrate an understanding of widely-used biophysical techniques Understand how molecules move within cells including processes of diffusion and active transport Understand how concepts from Thermodynamics can be applied to biological systems Understand how concepts from Electrodynamics can be applied to biological systems Describe how concepts from biophysics can be used to understand disease and develop new treatments and therapies
Assessment	38944-01 : Exam : Exam (Centrally Timetabled) - Written Unseen (80%) 38944-02 : Assessed problems : Coursework (20%)
Assessment Methods & Exceptions	Assessment: One 1.5 hour exam (80%) and two problem sheets totalling 20% Reassessment: Resit exam in resit period
Other
Reading List