Average GRE Scores for Biophysics Masters Program

The Biophysics program stands in solidarity with communities seeking justice for victims of police brutality. We are committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, welcoming and supportive environment for students of all races, ethnicities, belief systems, nationalities, genders, sexual orientations, and with disabilities. We categorically denounce all forms of racism, institutionalized inequality and the injustices that have been borne by members of minority and other marginalized groups, and pledge to take active roles in helping to redress such inequalities. The Biophysics program is fully committed to educating ourselves and to taking action to promote inclusivity and equality for all within our program, in our communities and in the world of science.

Biophysics applies the theories and methods of physics to understand how biological systems work. The Biophysics Program at Harvard University aims to train graduate students focused at the interface of physical and biological sciences.

The program provides broad training in the biophysical, chemical and molecular concepts and techniques that are required to address outstanding problems in biology and biomedical sciences. This interdisciplinary graduate program offers training in approaches to explore the structure, function and interactions of key macromolecules of the cell, the control of cellular and multicellular processes at the molecular and genome-wide levels, as well as the development of methods to image and model these processes. Students apply their training to research areas such as studying macromolecular structure or folding, developing new imaging or measurement tools, or to building models that explain how biological systems transform energy, matter, or information. Some trainees will also learn to use this information to diagnose, understand, prevent or cure human diseases.

In a field as diverse as Biophysics, it is impossible to represent every area of research. Historically, the Harvard Biophysics Program has had unusual strengths in areas of mechanistic biology where physical principles are paramount (e.g., structural biology and cellular dynamics) and in development of new physical measurement tools (e.g., single-molecule methods and imaging techniques). These areas of research will remain foundational, but future progress in the life sciences will crucially depend on continued identification and support of developing areas of research. These research areas will emphasize a fundamental physical science approach not just in terms of tools and techniques, but also in the mode of explanation of biological phenomena.

All applications must be submitted by this deadline through the Stanford Graduate Admissions Apply webpage. Late applications will not be accepted.

Submission of Graduate Record Examination (GRE) General test scores are not considered. The Subject Test (in Chemistry, Mathematics, or Physics) are optional.

All Recommendations Letters must be submitted using the online application system. Three letters of recommendation are required. Letters of recommendation cannot be emailed or faxed.

Graduate Admissions only requires admitted applicants who accept the offer of admission to submit Official Transcripts that shows their degree conferral. details on this can be found on the following Graduate Admissions Transcripts webpage.

information on Course Requirements can be found here.

Combined Bachelor of Science Master of Science (B.S. M.S.).

It is also an active and supportive community which comes together frequently for scientific and social events. Current postdocs can access the MB B Wiki for information on instrumentation, seminars, and other department resources prospective postdocs should contact the MB B postdoc group with any questions.

The MB B department offers plenty of opportunities to present your work to colleagues and receive feedback from professors, graduate students, and other postdocs. Subgroups in RNA, yeast genetics, structural biology, biophysics, and chemical biology host monthly seminars presented by graduate students and postdocs. Labs at the Medical School and on West Campus also participate in less formal research-in-progress talks.

Multidisciplinary training at the intersection of physics and biology.

The research focus of the Field of Biophysics is to uncover the fundamental physical and biological principles that govern all forms of life. Understanding these biological systems and their complex processes requires exquisitely detailed knowledge of molecular structures and functions.

Our graduate students are enthusiastic researchers who are instrumental in the research being done in the Field. They form a tight-knit community that supports and mentors their colleagues.

Every year, the Biophysics PhD enrolls a class of 8-12 of some of the most promising and adventurous young scientists from around the globe. Our students come from diverse and eclectic backgrounds, both scientific and personal. We are committed to a diverse community at UC Berkeley and in the Biophysics program. In making admissions decisions we consider the potential of the whole individual to succeed in the program. Research accomplishments, personal and scientific statements of purpose, and recommendation letters are given careful consideration.

Application requirements (ALL materials, including letters, are due November 30). information is provided and required as part of the online application, so please create an application account well before the deadline and review the online application before emailing with questions:.

A nonrefundable application fee: The fee must be paid using a major credit card and is not refundable. For US citizens and permanent residents, the fee is $135 US citizens and permanent residents may request a fee waiver as part of the online application. For all other students (international) the fee is $155 (no waivers, no exceptions).

Letters are also due Nov. 30, so please inform your recommenders of this deadline and give them sufficient advance notice. It is your responsibility to monitor the status of your letters of recommendation (sending prompts, as necessary) in the online system.

Applicants are encouraged to apply for extramural funding, such as NSF Fellowships. Admissions offers are made before (and independent of) fellowship decisions, but writing the proposals is great preparation for graduate school and is a great addition to a CV.

GRE: The Graduate Record Examination is no longer required. Subject exams have never been required. GRE scores will not be used as part of the application review and admission. If you are also considering applying to a program at UC Berkeley that requires GREs, the Graduate Division has information on reporting the scores.

TOEFL IELTS: Adequate proficiency in English must be demonstrated by those applicants applying from countries where English is not the official language. There are two standardized tests you may take: the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), and the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). TOEFL minimum passing scores are 90 for the Internet-based test (IBT), and 570 for the paper-based format (PBT). The TOEFL may be waived if an international student has completed at least one year of full-time academic course work with grades of B or better while in residence at a U.S. university (transcript will be required).

It is your responsibility to ensure and verify that your application materials are submitted in a timely manner. Please include the statement of purpose and personal statement in the online application. They will be discarded unread.

The Biophysics Group provides a competitive stipend ($43,362 for 2023-24) as well as full payment of registration fees and non-resident tuition (which includes health care). Students maintaining satisfactory academic progress are provided full funding for five and a half to six years. The program supports students in the first year, while the PI mentor provides support from the second year on. Teaching is part of the training of the program and most students will not teach than one semester, unless by choice.

Due to cost considerations, the program admits few international students the average is two per year.

Students are also strongly encouraged to apply for extramural fellowships, if eligible. There are a number of extramural fellowships that Berkeley students apply for that current applicants may find appealing. just put together a good proposal! Please note that we make admissions offers before the release of (and independent of) the results of fellowship competitions, so our recommendation to m is mainly for your own benefit.

National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship (app deadlines in Oct).

National Defense Science and Engineering Graduate Fellowship (app deadline in Dec).

DOE Computational Science Graduate Fellowship (Krell Institute) (app deadline in Jan).

There is no minimum length on either essay, but 3 pages maximum is suggested. The Statement of Purpose should describe your research and educational background and aspirations. The Graduate Division provides information here. information on writing a personal statement can be found here.

Letters of Recommendation: should be from persons who have supervised your research or academic work and who can evaluate your intellectual ability, creativity, leadership potential and promise for productive scholarship. Note: the application can be submitted before all of the recommenders have completed their letters. Be sure to send reminders if your recommenders do not submit their letters.

California Residency: You are not considered a resident if you hope to enter our program in the Fall, but have never lived in California before or are here on a visa. on the application in anticipation of admission. You must have lived in California previously, and be a US citizen or Permanent Resident, to be a resident. Residency status does not impact the review of an application.

Extramural fellowships: it is to your benefit to apply for fellowships as they will facilitate entry into the lab of your choice, are a great addition to your CV and often provide higher stipends. Do not allow concerns coming up with a research proposal before joining a lab prevent you from applying. The fellowships are looking for research potential and proposal writing skills and will not hold you to specific research projects once you have started graduate school.

It will not impact your chances of being admitted into the program.

Magnetic actuation of hair cells David Rowland, Yuttana Roongthumskul, Jae-Hyun Lee, Jinwoo Cheon, Dolores Bozovic The bullfrog sacculus contains mechanically sensitive hair cells whose stereociliary bundles oscillate spontaneously when decoupled from the overlying membrane. Steady-state offsets on the resting position of a hair bundle can suppress or modulate this native motility. To probe the dynamics of spontaneous oscillation in the proximity of the critical point, we describe here a method for mechanical actuation that avoids loading the bundles or contributing to the viscous drag. Magnetite beads were attached to the tips of the stereocilia, and a magnetic probe was used to impose deflections. This technique allowed us to observe the transition from multi-mode to single-mode state in freely oscillating bundles, as well as the crossover from the oscillatory to the C quiescent state. V 2011 American Institute of Physics.

Criterion for Amino Acid Composition of Defensins and Antimicrobial Peptides Based on Geometry of Membrane Destabilization N. McCray Jr., A. Ouellette, M. Schmidt, Abhijit Mishra, Ghee Hwee Lai, Matthew Davis, Lori K. Sanders, Dat Tran, Angie Garcia, Kenneth P. Tai, Paul B. McCray, Jr., Andre J. Ouellette, Michael E. Selsted, Gerard C. Wong Defensins comprise a potent class of membrane disruptive antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) with well-characterized broad spectrum and selective microbicidal effects. These results are shown to be consistent with vesicle leakage assays. A mechanism of action based on saddle-splay membrane curvature generation is broadly enabling, because it is a necessary condition for processes such as pore formation, blebbing, budding, and vesicularization, all of which destabilize the barrier function of cell membranes. Importantly, saddle-splay membrane curvature generation places constraints on the amino acid composition of membrane disruptive peptides. For example, we show that the requirement for generating saddle-splay curvature implies that a decrease in arginine content in an AMP can be offset by an increase in both lysine and hydrophobic content.

High energy deformation of filaments with internal structure and localized torque-induced melting of DNA We develop a continuum elastic approach to examining the bending mechanics of semiflexible filaments with a local internal degree of freedom that couples to the bending modulus. This construct, studied by Qu et al. Lett., 94, 18003, 2011], displays nonlinear strain softening associated with the local melting of the double stranded DNA under applied torque and serves as a model system with which to study the nonlinear elasticity of DNA under large energy deformations. We show that one can account quantitatively for the observed bending mechanics using an augmented worm-like chain model, the helix coil worm-like chain. We also predict that the highly bent and partially molten dsDNA should exhibit particularly large end-to-end fluctuations associated with the fluctuation of the length of the molten region, and propose appropriate experimental tests. We suggest that the augmented worm-like chain model discussed here is a useful analytic approach to the nonlinear mechanics of DNA or other biopolymer systems.

Translocation of TAT peptide and analogs induced by multiplexed membrane and cytoskeletal interactions A. Rodriguez, R. Cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs), such as the HIV TAT peptide, are able to translocate across cellular membranes efficiently. A number of mechanisms, from direct entry to various endocytotic mechanisms (both receptor independent and receptor dependent), have been observed but how these specific amino acid sequences accomplish these effects is unknown. We show how CPP sequences can multiplex interactions with the membrane, the actin cytoskeleton, and cell-surface receptors to facilitate different translocation pathways under different conditions. This requirement for negative Gaussian curvature constrains but underdetermines the amino acid content of CPPs. We observe that in most CPP sequences decreasing arginine content is offset by a simultaneous increase in lysine and hydrophobic content. We show that the TAT peptide can induce structural changes reminiscent of macropinocytosis in actin-encapsulated giant vesicles without receptors.

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Students are not admitted into the Biophysics Program for a terminal master degree. However, a master degree is officially offered.

The doctor of philosophy degree with a major in biophysics is an interdepartmental offering under the supervision of the biophysics program committee. The biophysics degree is intended for those who wish to emphasize physical principles and methods in solving biological problems. By necessity, the interdisciplinary nature of biophysics generates interaction among, and expands the boundaries of, traditional areas of science. Persons with strong training in biophysics can be expected to be major innovators and contributors in research and applied technology. Biophysics graduates pursue careers in academic, industrial, and government research, and in teaching and administration.

State-of-the-art facilities are available within the biophysics program for research in x-ray crystallography, nuclear magnetic-resonance spectroscopy, electron resonance spectroscopy, fluorescence spectroscopy, microscopy and imaging, and computational chemistry. Graduate students in biophysics can choose from an expansive range of research topics including, but not limited to, biomolecular structure and function interactions, protein engineering and biotechnology, virus structure and function, enzyme catalysis and kinetics, membranes, neurochemistry, and electrophysiology.

Financial assistance is available to support qualified graduate students throughout their graduate studies. Types of graduate appointments that may be awarded include research assistantships, fellowships, and traineeships. The stipends awarded provide to students during their graduate work, permitting them to devote their efforts to coursework and research.

Resources to help you afford graduate study might include assistantships, fellowships, traineeships, and financial aid. Further funding information is available from the Graduate School. Be sure to check with your program for individual policies and restrictions related to funding.

Online: These programs are offered 100% online. Some programs may require an on-campus orientation or residency experience, but the courses will be facilitated in an online format.

Any grade of BC or lower will not count toward the Biophysics core course requirement. If a student receives a BC or lower, the student must repeat the course in order to receive a higher grade. The student may also substitute to course for an alternate core course with approval from the Biophysics Steering Committee.

Students must take the same courses as are required for the biophysics Ph.D.:.

Students must take at least 2 additional classes from different categories from the following list of classes (alternative classes may be substituted with approval from the Biophysics Program Steering Committee):.

Students are also required to take an ethics course that covers all of the items considered necessary by the NIH for ethical and professional scientific training. It is strongly recommended that students take the ethics course during their first year. The recommended ethics course is: BIOCHEM 729 Advanced Topics. The Biophysics Program also conducts a mandatory ethics refresher seminar for all students that is held at the end of every spring semester.

With program approval, students are allowed to count no than 9 credits of graduate coursework from other institutions. Coursework earned than two years prior to admission to the doctoral degree is not allowed to satisfy requirements. No admissions are made into the master program.

Coursework earned than two years prior to admission to the doctoral degree is not allowed to satisfy requirements. No admissions are made into the master program.

Master degree students who have been absent for five or consecutive years lose all credits that they have earned before their absence.

These resources may be helpful in addressing your concerns:.

Take advantage of the Graduate School professional development resources to build skills, thrive academically, and launch your career.

AdmissionCourses and RequirementsStudent ResourcesStudent HandbookIllinois Biophysics SocietyBQE Tests Support.

Biophysics Alumna Elizabeth Villa Named 2021 HHMI Investigator.

A large number of laboratories in the Department participate in interdepartmental umbrella graduate programs.

This interdepartmental program is for students who are admitted to Case Western Res. School of Medicine in order to obtain dual MD PhD degrees with the aim to become a physician scientist. After 2 years of medical and basic science graduate education these students typically take between 2-4 years for their thesis research before returning to medical and clinical training. Many members of the Physiology and Biophysics are trainers in the MSTP program and the students can rotate carry out the PhD research requirements in their laboratories. Graduate courses and electives are tailored to these students, allowing wide flexibility through elective courses.

The umbrella BSTP program is designed to provide students who are interested in earning a Ph.D. in a biomedical field an opportunity to explore various areas of research interest through laboratory rotations, while participating in a coordinated curriculum in cell and molecular biology. This program is especially suited to students with prior background in the life sciences. Students enrolled in the BSTP program have a choice of eleven different Ph.D. programs to enter including the Cell and Molecular Physiology, Structural Biology and Biophysics, and Organ Systems Physiology tracks in the Physiology and Biophysics graduate program.

Interdepartmental Structural Biology and Biophysics Training Program (SBB-TP).

The Structural Biology and Biophysics Training Program emphasizes quantitative methods and equips students to study cell and protein structure and function using state-of-the-art and high end instrumentation and computers. It especially attracts students with backgrounds in mathematical biology, chemistry, physics and quantitative biochemistry biophysics. Particular excellence exists in the areas of structural biology and cellular ion channels, receptors as well as transporters.

Our understanding of biological function has advanced due to a synthesis of molecular genetics, biochemistry, and insights gained from molecular structural information. Taking a quantitative, physical approach leads to innovation.

The Master of Science in Molecular Biochemistry and Biophysics program complements traditional graduate programs in biology, chemistry, and physics by offering an integrated, molecular-based approach to understanding biological problems, taking insights from all three disciplines.

The program focusses on biophysical approaches to determine the structure of macromolecules and macromolecular assemblies.

Enrolling in the M.S. in Molecular Biochemistry and Biophysics program allows students access to the state-of-the-art X-ray facilities at the nearby Advanced Photon Source at Argonne National Laboratory, one of the most intense X-ray sources in the world.

The program focuses on biophysical approaches to determine the structure of macromolecules and macromolecular assemblies. Enrollment allows access to the X-ray facilities at the nearby Advanced Photon Source at Argonne National Laboratory, one of the world most intense X-ray sources.

An advanced degree opens career opportunities to higher-paying jobs. Careers associated with molecular biochemistry and biophysics include:.

The information provided is sourced from a third party, Lightcast, and is provided here for informational and educational purposes only. Illinois Tech makes no representation, warranty or guarantee, express or implied, that the information presented herein is reflective of the outcomes you can expect if you enroll in or graduate from an Illinois Tech program. You are encouraged to conduct your own thorough research into job opportunities and outcomes in your field of study.

The program is designed to provide students with the skills required to advance to positions as biomedical researchers or educators in a broad spectrum of positions in academia, industry and government. It offers appropriate preparation for those considering a Ph.D. or seeking admission to a Medical or Dental School. The knowledge base acquired also is invaluable in technical and administrative roles in multiple settings.

The structure of the program includes fundamental and advanced didactic course work and independent research intended to provide a framework for the progressive development of a mastery in critical areas of biomedical science, an ability to synthesize this information and apply this foundation to the identification of key areas of investigation and experimentation.

The program provides a framework to develop the ability explore and interpret the biomedical literature and to design, implement and interpret experimental approaches in order to investigate biomedical questions by designing and testing hypotheses.

The development of oral and written communication skills required to present and explain biomedical knowledge, experimental design, results and interpretation to a variety of audiences is also a goal of the program.

The candidate should demonstrate that an appropriate level of oral, written and visual communication skills have been acquired. Oral communication should be demonstrated at an appropriate level with respect to the content, organization, logical flow, presentation and appropriate use of language incorporating the use of visual aids, as measured by rubric. Written communication must be demonstrated at an appropriate level with respect to grammar, syntax, spelling and use of vocabulary to effectively present information including the use of figures, tables and citations as measured by rubric.

The opportunity to attend discussions and present papers suggested by the department guest seminar speakers occurs weekly (known as Pre-Seminar Highlights) prior to the department Research Seminar. Students also participate in informal luncheon discussions with the speaker before the seminar.