Current Topics in Biophysics (SC/BIOL 2090.02)

An introduction to biophysics highlighting major themes in applied and pure biophysical research. The course will present biology and physics students with an overview of the role of physics in biological research. Two lecture hours per week. One term. Two credits.

Prerequisite: PHYS 1010 6.0 or PHYS 1410 6.0; BIOL 1010 6.0 or BIOL 1410 6.0.
Course Directors: Stanislaw Jerzak and Roger R. Lew

Other Information:
This course will introduce physics and biology students to biological physics. A current topics format will give the course director latitude to bring in guest lecturers from many disciplines, and to choose topics that illuminate both biology and physics. Sample topics: MRI and other imaging technologies; fluorescence spectroscopy as a new way to study protein-protein interactions; molecular motors; electrical properties of membranes coupled to antibodies or other sensors to produce high-sensitivity diagnostic instrumentation; osmosis in biology; bio-photonics; bio-nanotechnology. Concepts surveyed in this course will be further expanded in the third and fourth year biophysics courses.

Course Goals:
The objective of the course is to help students to integrate the knowledge gained in first year biology and physics courses and to expose students to modern topics in biophysics.

The following support these goals:

Readings and Course Notes:

Readings and course notes will be presented during the term, as required

Lectures:
T,R - 10:30 AM- 11:20 AM BC 202
The lectures are designed to introduce students to the variety of techniques and approaches used in biological physics.

Please be aware that lectures are a crucial component of the course.
The material covered in lectures is an excellent guide to material on which you will be tested.

Grading and Assignments:
In this course, there will be two term tests, assignments, short essays on material presented by guest lecturers, and a final examination. These will allow you to demonstrate not only your knowledge of facts, but your ability to apply and integrate your understanding of concepts. In the assignments, you will be asked to apply physical analysis to biological problems.

Mark Distribution:

Two Term Tests: 30% total

The lower test score will be weighted 10% and the higher test score will be weighted 20% except in the event of an absence from a term test (see below)

Final Exam: 30%
Assignments: 20% (A total of two assignments)
Gists of Guest Lectures: 20% (A total of two gists for selected guest lectures)

In the event of an absence from a term test, please provide a letter stating that you were absent, and acknowledging that the weight of the missed term test (15%) will be added to the weight of the final exam.

Accommodation Statement: If you are registered with one of York's Disabilities Programs (OPD or LPD), please make an appointment with the course director to discuss any academic accommodations you need. (Alternatively, you can ask the appropriate office to contact me on your behalf.) If you need academic accommodations and are not registered with the OPD/LPD, please contact the appropriate office directly. (See: Office for Persons with Disabilities | Learning Disabilities Program )