Biophysics Ph.D. (Ithaca)
Field of Study
Program Description
Graduate study in biophysics is interdisciplinary and highly individualized. Students majoring in biophysics are expected to obtain a broad, interdisciplinary knowledge of fundamental principles in both the biological and physical sciences. But because biophysics covers a wide range of areas, it would be unrealistic to expect to master each facet in detail. A student working in the dynamics and motions of DNA will develop a strong background in statistical physics, computational science, and instrumentation, while a student involved in enzyme dynamics studies will develop a strong background in biochemistry, X-ray scattering and crystallography, and cryo-electron microscopy.
At the point of passing the "A" exam -- usually after two years of study -- each student is expected to demonstrate competence in specific subject areas that serve as a foundation for further work. Areas of required competence are: advanced mathematics, physics (i.e., statistical mechanics and quantum mechanics), biology (i.e., biochemistry and molecular cell biology), and advanced studies in molecular biophysics and associated areas of biological and physical sciences (i.e., structural biology, computer literacy, laboratory electronics, and instrumentation).
The field members are drawn from fourteen departments in seven campus units and include two Howard Hughes Medical Institute Investigators. Research facilities available to Biophysics students include: MacCHESS (Macromolecular Crystallography at the Center for High Energy Synchrotron Studies); the Cornell Theory Center (supercomputing); the Developmental Resource for Biophysical Imaging Optoelectronics; the Center for Advanced Technology in Biotechnology; the Cornell Nanofabrication Facility; the Biomolecular NMR Center; the Chemistry NMR Facility; and the Cornell Center for Materials Research (cryo-EM, Optical Microscopy, Spectroscopy and Electronic Measurements, and Surface Analysis and Characterization).
Contact Information
Website: https://biophysics.cornell.edu/Email: biophysics@cornell.edu
Phone: 607 255-2313
107 Biotechnology Building
Cornell University
Ithaca, NY 14853
Concentrations by Subject
- biophysics
Tuition
Visit the Graduate School's Tuition Rates page.
Application Requirements and Deadlines
Application Deadlines:
Fall, Dec. 1; no spring admission
Requirements Summary:
Applicants must have a strong background in the physical sciences. Additional admission information is available on the Field's website.
- all Graduate School Requirements, including the English Language Proficiency Requirement for all applicants
- three letters of recommendation
- resume (optional)
Learning Outcomes
At the point of passing the A exam -- usually after two years of study -- each student is expected to demonstrate competence in specific subject areas that will serve as a foundation for further work.
Areas of competence include:
- Advanced Mathematics
- Physical chemistry (i.e., statistical mechanics and/or quantum mechanics)
- Biochemistry and molecular cell biology
- Computer literacy and/or laboratory electronics and instrumentation
- Advanced studies in molecular biophysics and associated areas of biological and physical sciences