Lectures will cover a set of topics on the statistical mechanics of living systems. In particular, we discuss the physics of phase separation in living cells, theories on how to control chemical reactions and aggregation processes in biological systems, as well as learn how the theory of phase transitions far away from thermodynamic equilibrium may allow us to solve one or another conundrum on the origin of life. For each lecture, you will be offered one research topic. You can investigate these topics with me as well as Ph.D. students and postdocs of our research group in the second half of the course. Research topics will cover various questions on the Origin of life, Phase Transitions, and Chemical Reactions in Living Cells.
Our course is in particular suited for senior Bachelor and Master students who are interested in theoretical concepts from Statistical Mechanics (in particular: phase transitions, polymer physics, chemical reactions,...) and would like to get a flavor of modern research questions in cell biology and the origin of life. The course is also ideal if you are looking for potential topics for your Master thesis.
The lecture takes place in T 1005.
Admission settings
The course is part of admission "Scheduled admission: Research challenges in cell biophysics".
The following rules apply for the admission:
The enrolment is possible from 29.09.2021, 12:00 to 15.11.2021, 23:59.