Areas of Biophysics

Biophysics is incorporated into many diverse areas of biology. Some research topics in biophysics or involving biophysics include:

• Membrane biophysics: the study of the structure and function of cell membranes, including the ion channels, proteins, and receptors embedded within them.
• Computational/theoretical biophysics: using mathematical modeling to study biological systems.
• Protein engineering: creating and modifying proteins to advance synthetic biology. Often used to advance human health in the form of new disease treatments.
• Molecular structures: biophysics studies the molecular structures of biological molecules including proteins, nucleic acids, and lipids.
• Mechanisms: using physical mechanisms to explain the occurrence of biological processes. Some physical mechanisms include energy transduction in membranes, protein folding and structure leading to specific functions, cell movement, and the electrical behavior of cells.