Biophysics and Structural Biology (B&SB) trains Ph.D. students to carry out independent research using quantitative approaches to the structures, dynamics, and mechanisms of biological macromolecules. This flexible, individualized graduate program is specifically designed for students with strong quantitative undergraduate backgrounds (e.g., in physics, chemistry, engineering, biophysics, mathematics) who desire to bring these skills to bear on biological problems.

Students in this program are trained for careers in basic biochemical research through:

• a rigorous curriculum of formal courses
• four laboratory rotations during the first academic year
• intensive thesis research in laboratories operating on the edge of discovery
• practice in conveying scientific information via expository writing and public speaking
• specialized informal seminars, discussion-groups, and journal-clubs

An interactive, informal spirit pervades the Life Science programs at Brandeis. Students may choose among all Life Science laboratories for thesis research, regardless of departmental affiliation. Since most research groups are small, faculty maintain close interactions with students, and collaborations among laboratories are common. Biophysics Ph.D. students can also opt to supplement their training by participating in the IGERT, Quantitative Biology, or Macromolecular Structure and Mechanism cross-disciplinary programs.