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The Bachelor of Science in Biophysics at Brown University provides students with an interdisciplinary foundation bridging physics, biology, chemistry, and mathematics to understand the mechanisms of life at molecular, cellular, and systemic levels. The program emphasizes quantitative analysis, experimental design, and computational modeling to explore biological processes such as protein dynamics, cellular signaling, and neural networks. Students gain hands-on experience in laboratory research, data interpretation, and modeling techniques, developing the skills needed to investigate complex biological phenomena using the tools of physical science.
The curriculum encourages integration of theoretical principles with practical application, fostering problem-solving and critical thinking skills. Students study topics including molecular biophysics, structural biology, statistical mechanics, and computational biology while engaging in laboratory courses and independent research projects. Collaborative opportunities with faculty and research labs allow students to contribute to cutting-edge studies in areas such as biophysical imaging, biomedical engineering, and computational modeling of biological systems. Graduates leave the program with a strong foundation in analytical reasoning, experimental methodology, and interdisciplinary scientific inquiry, preparing them for careers or advanced study in both the physical and life sciences.
Year 1 – Foundations in Physics and Biology
• General Physics I & II
• Calculus and Linear Algebra
• General Biology I & II
• Introduction to Laboratory Research
Year 2 – Core Principles and Techniques
• Molecular and Cellular Biology
• Organic Chemistry
• Mechanics and Electromagnetism
• Statistical and Computational Methods
Year 3 – Advanced Biophysical Topics
• Biophysical Chemistry
• Structural and Molecular Biophysics
• Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics
• Computational Biology or Bioinformatics
Year 4 – Capstone and Independent Research
• Senior Thesis or Research Project
• Advanced Laboratory Techniques
• Seminar in Biophysics
• Electives: Neuroscience, Biomedical Engineering, or Quantitative Biology
Graduates of the Biophysics program are equipped with a versatile set of analytical, experimental, and computational skills, enabling them to pursue careers in biomedical research, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, medical imaging, and computational modeling. Alumni also work in academic research, health technology, bioinformatics, and science communication, applying their expertise to tackle challenges in molecular biology, healthcare, and technological innovation. The program provides an excellent foundation for graduate study in biophysics, molecular biology, bioengineering, neuroscience, or medicine. Employers value graduates’ ability to integrate principles from physics and biology to design experiments, interpret complex data, and develop innovative solutions to real-world scientific and technological problems.
This program offers a rigorous interdisciplinary education that combines physics, biology, and computational methods to understand life at a fundamental level. Students benefit from close mentorship, research opportunities in cutting-edge laboratories, and a curriculum that emphasizes both theoretical rigor and hands-on experimentation. The program develops critical thinking, quantitative reasoning, and collaborative research skills, preparing graduates to contribute to scientific discovery, technological innovation, and healthcare advancement. By integrating diverse scientific perspectives and fostering analytical independence, the Biophysics program equips students with the knowledge and practical experience to excel in research, industry, or graduate studies, and to address complex biological and physical challenges with creativity and precision.
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 401 863 1000
Email: admissions@brown.edu
Address: University of Brown, Providence, RI 02912, United States