Biophysics is a field of research that combines methods and concepts from physics in the research of biological systems. This field highlights quantitative understanding of living systems. In particular, using advanced measurement methods and developing new methods and instruments, developing quantitative models and formulating theories that explain and unify diverse types of data on biological systems. In the last decade we witness technological breakthroughs in the measurement methods of biological systems that enable us to measure a large data sets of various types: advanced genetic sequencing, super-resolution microscopy, high-throughput single-cell measurements, and more. The emergence of these new methods stems, among the rest, from advances in biophysics. Additionally, these methods provide a lot of high-quality data for new biophysical models. We expect that such new experimental methods will be central in our future ability to analyze and understand biological systems, as well as in the development the next generation of measurement instruments and medical devices.
In the Hebrew University, research groups in biophysics study, for example, the mechanical properties of cells and tissues, develop new methods for measuring protein structure and chemical reactions at the single-molecule level, and study the flight of insects and develop bio-mimetic flying robots. These groups use advanced methods in molecular biology, genetic sequencing, microscopy, mass spectroscopy, computer vision, and more, and develop new methods are the forefront of these fields.
The undergraduate program “Life sciences the emphasis on biophysics” is a B.Sc. program in the life sciences with significant emphasis on physics and mathematics. The program includes the mathematical training required for physics studies as well as augmented curriculum in programming. The program is designated for students who interest both in physics and biology, and particularly in implementing advances quantitative methods, either experimental or theoretical, to understand biological systems.
Additionally, the program highly emphasizes training in research. In the first and second years the program includes seminars intended to expose the students to both classic and contemporary studies in biophysics. During their third year, students will conduct a 5-credits research project in one of the biophysics research laboratories at the Hebrew University. The goal of the project is to directly experience in scientific research by gaining exposure to a specific research question, getting to know researchers and research students in campus, and experiencing in biophysical methods. The undergraduate research project is a central stage in the scientific training of our students and, in many cases, significantly contributes to the research in the host laboratory.
Program administration
Program head: Dr. Tsevi Beatus, tsevi.beatus@mail.huji.ac.il
Teaching secretariat: Ms. Keren Daniel, kerend@savion.huji.ac.il