Biophysics

The merger of biology, chemistry, physics and math, biophysics is a tremendous problem-solver across any spectrum. Biophysics is that branch of knowledge that applies the principles of physics and chemistry and the methods of mathematical analysis and computer modeling to biological systems, with the ultimate goal of understanding at a fundamental level the structure, dynamics, interactions, and ultimately the function of biological systems.^*

• Wake Forest faculty research studies, among other areas, the properties and particulars of blood flow; the physical properties of cancer cells vs. normal cells; and the design and application of new statistical methods to understand molecular data.
• Dr. Brandon Turner (’12) is a Rhodes Scholar who has used data to try to predict melanoma patients’ response to immunotherapy. Dr. Turner received his MD at Stanford and served his residency at Harvard.

The Biophysics degree is offered as a Bachelor of Science (B.S.).

* The Biophysical Society

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Our model and curriculum educate the whole person and often help students discover interests they had never previously discovered. Students generally take 100-200 level courses during their first year of college, while registering for higher level courses as upperclassmen.

Sample courses that you may take as a Biophysics student include:

* Courses listed above are offered during the current academic year. Course availability and offerings can change at any time. Refer to the Academic Bulletin to view all major requirements.

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Joining a club or organization is a great way to get involved and do more with your major. Our Biophysics students participate in the following programs:

• Association of Computing Machinery (Student chapter)
• Health Occupation Students of America
• Women in STEM
• Association of Pre-Physician Assistants

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Careers that often interest Biophysics majors, and fields our graduates work in, include:

• Chemist
• Clinical Research Coordinator
• Ecologist
• Environmental Scientist
• Laboratory Technician
• Microbiologist
• Pharmacologist
• Radiologist
• Research Associate

Professions of recent Biophysics graduates include medicine; data science; financial planning; and many more.