Biophysics

Biophysics is an interdisciplinary science that applies the theories and methods of physics to study biological systems. It seeks to understand the mechanisms by which life's structures and processes arise, from molecules and membranes to cells and whole organisms, using quantitative measurements, mathematical models, and computational simulations.

Originating in the 20th century with pioneers who merged physics with biology, biophysics expanded as techniques from physics—such as spectroscopy, diffraction, and later imaging—were adapted to living matter. The field covers both fundamental questions about how biological systems function and applied problems in health and technology.

Biophysics employs experimental techniques to observe and manipulate biological systems, including X-ray crystallography, cryo-electron microscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance, fluorescence microscopy, and spectroscopy. It also relies on computational approaches—molecular dynamics, quantum chemistry, and statistical mechanics—to model structures and dynamics. Single-molecule methods, nanotechnology, and biomechanical measurements extend the reach to force, motion, and energy transduction.

Major subfields include structural biophysics, studying the architecture of biomolecules; biophysical chemistry, focusing on physical principles of chemical reactions in biology; biophysics of membranes and ion channels; biomechanics; biophotonics and bioelectromagnetism; computational and systems biophysics, and neurobiophysics.

Applications range from drug design and medical imaging to understanding disease mechanisms, bioenergy conversion, vision and hearing, and the development of medical devices and biomaterials. Biophysics provides a framework for interpreting experimental data and guiding biotechnological innovation through quantitative insight.

Practitioners are trained across physics, chemistry, and biology, often with strengths in mathematics and computation. The field continues to influence both basic biological understanding and practical technologies by linking quantitative physical principles with living systems.