Molecular Scale Biophysics

The virtual component (17 February 2025-18 April 2025) will offer multiple resources to optimize student engagement and understanding of the various biophysical techniques to study macromolecule structure and function. The component is split in modules corresponding to the different biophysical techniques, including spectroscopic methods (FTIR, EPR, fluorescence, rapid kinetics), hydrodynamic methods (analytical ultracentrifugation, DLS), thermodynamic methods (ITC, DSC, DSF) and atomic force microscopy. This component will contain recorded videos (self-paced learning), online lectures (twice a week) and problem-solving tasks. The recorded videos and online lectures will provide theoretical knowledge of the various biophysical techniques. The problem-solving activities will challenge students to apply theoretical knowledge in practical scenarios, helping them to think critically and understand the strenghts and weaknesses of each technique in the context of understanding molecular function of biological systems. To maximize student engagement and learning throughout the virtual component, online quizzes will be implemented on Moodle. In addition, homework assignments will be given after each module. The detailed schedule will be available at a later date. Explore the world of biological macromolecules through a cutting-edge, multidisciplinary biophysics program that combines state-of-the-art experimental techniques and international collaboration.

Application Deadline

Virtual Part starting date 2025-02-17

Virtual Part closing date 2025-04-18

Total student workload 162

Specific field of studies Biochemistry, Biophysics, biological macromolecules, Molecular structure and function, Molecular interactions, Medical Biotechnologies, Bioinformatics

Pre-requisite for selection CV Motivation Letter

Academic pre-requisites for applicants Theroretical knowledge or training in areas related to molecular biophysics (biology, biochemistry or physics)

Physical Part starting date 2025-06-02

Physical Part Description The physical component at the IM2B Institute in Marseille (France) will include the following activities: 1. Lectures and a refresher course on techniques that will be employed by the students during the week and on the study system they will be investigating. This will reinforce their theoretical knowledge of biophysical techniques and their application to biological research. 2. Practical workshops in small groups using state-of-the-art equipment to obtain and analyze data. This will give students a better appreciation of sample requirements, technical needs and practical aspects of the different methods. Students will benefit from privileged access to experts in these various techniques. 3. Guided data analysis sessions to help students organize and present data. 4. A poster session to broaden students understanding of current research themes, to practice scientific communication, and to build a professional network.

Physical Part closing date 2025-06-06

Language level required B2

Field of studies related to the course Medicine and Health

Course location Marseille, France

Course language English