Course - Nano Life Science - TFY4335
TFY4335 - Nano Life Science
About
Examination arrangement
Course content
The course includes cellular and molecular biophysics crucial for applications of nanotechnology in life science. Application areas discussed are bionanosensors, nanoparticles, design and operation of microfluidic devices and novel experimental techniques to study molecules and cells. Covered topics include but are not limited to: mechanical and chemical equilibrium, entropic forces and molecular self assembly, random walks, diffusion, Brownian motion, fluid dynamics at nm to μm scale, electrostatic interactions in water solution and biological electricity. Furthermore, during the course, experimental techniques and theoretical models used to study single molecules such as polymers and proteins are described. Methods and models needed to understand some properties of enzymes, ion channels and molecular motors are discussed. Examples from recent research in bionanotechnology will be presented.
Learning outcome
After completion of the course, student have knowledge about: (1) simplified physical models to describe various processes important for understanding cellular functions and processes on micro-and nanometer scale. In particular, understand physical forces needed to understand and describe intermolecular interactions, the role of entropy and entropic forces, electrostatic interactions in solution, transport phenomena like diffusion and the role of Brownian motion, properties of water at micro- and nanometer scales. (2) how living organisms convert chemical energy into mechanical work. (3) how to describe, model and measure mechanical properties of single polymer chains and intermolecular interactions, and how inter- and intramolecular interactions influence mechanical properties of bio-polymers, proteins and nucleic acids. (4) design simple microfluidic devices and understand the physical phenomena important for their function.
Skills: Implement some of the physical models discussed in the course in computer simulations in Matlab or python. Have experience working in clean room. Be able to apply achieved knowledge to formulate and analyse problems in bionanoscience. Be able to contribute with innovative suggestions on how to solve challenges in diagnostics and therapy of various diseases.
General competence: Write a scientific report.
Learning methods and activities
Lectures, problem classes and laboratory exercises with report writing. All reports must be approved to be admitted to the exam. The Lab report score is included in the finale grade. Expected workload is 225 hours.
Compulsory assignments
- Laboratory exercises with reports
Further on evaluation
The final grade is based on portfolio assessment. The portfolio includes written exam and report. The evaluation of the different parts is given in %-points, while the entire portfolio is given a letter grade. The re-sit examination (in August) may be changed from written to oral.
Recommended previous knowledge
Statistical thermodynamics, organic chemistry, biotechnology, basic knowledge in physics, mathematics and statistics.
Course materials
Main textbook: Physical Biology of the Cell. Rob Phillips, Jane Kondev, Julie Theriot, Hernan Garcia. ISBN: 9780815344506.
Additional materials: To be announced at the start of the semester.
Credit reductions
| Course code | Reduction | From | To |
|---|---|---|---|
| TFY4310 | 7.5 | ||
| TFY4310 | 3.0 |
Version: 1
Credits:
7.5 SP
Study level: Second degree level
Term no.: 1
Teaching semester: AUTUMN 2019
Language of instruction: Norwegian
Location: Trondheim
- Biophysics and Medical Technology
- Biophysics
- Biology
- Biotechnology
Examination
Examination arrangement: Portfolio assessment
- Term Status code Evaluation Weighting Examination aids Date Time Examination system Room *
- Autumn ORD Rapport 20/100 ALLE
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Room Building Number of candidates - Autumn ORD Skriftlig eksamen 80/100 C 2019-12-11 15:00 INSPERA
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Room Building Number of candidates SL410 blå sone Sluppenvegen 14 2 SL317 Sluppenvegen 14 1 SL111 orange sone Sluppenvegen 14 31 - Summer UTS Rapport 20/100 ALLE
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Room Building Number of candidates - Summer UTS Skriftlig eksamen 80/100 C INSPERA
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Room Building Number of candidates
- * The location (room) for a written examination is published 3 days before examination date. If more than one room is listed, you will find your room at Studentweb.
For more information regarding registration for examination and examination procedures, see "Innsida - Exams"