Molecular biophysics

Molecular biophysics is a rapidly evolving interdisciplinary area of research that combines concepts in physics, chemistry, engineering, mathematics and biology. It seeks to understand biomolecular systems and explain biological function in terms of molecular structure, structural organization, and dynamic behaviour at various levels of complexity (from single molecules to supramolecular structures, viruses and small living systems). The technical challenges are formidable, and the discipline has required development of specialized equipment and procedures capable of imaging and manipulating minute living structures, as well as novel experimental approaches.

Spectroscopy in Molecular Biophysics

Spectroscopic techniques like FT-NMR, spin label electron spin resonance, laser Raman, FT-infrared, circular dichroism, etc. have been widely used to understand structural dynamics of important bio-molecules and inter-molecular interactions.

Training

The field overlaps with both research into other areas of biophysics and biochemistry, teaching at the undergraduate, graduate, and professional level, and the use of the field and its related fields to develop, test, and use improved clinical therapies. Therefore, training will usually involve a graduate (usually, for teaching, clinical testing and care, and other research, a doctoral) degree and/or a degree in the health sciences, such as a medical degree. A postdoctoral training period or fellowship can also be pursued.

See also

• Gopalasamudram Narayana Iyer Ramachandran, one of the founders of molecular biophysics. Famous for the creation of the Ramachandran plot.