Basic properties and structure of biomolecules. Basic thermodynamicsabout biomolecules, their dynamics and interactions. Interaction between biomolecules and electromagnetic radiation. The principles of the most important methods in experimental molecular biophysics, how they can be used to obtain information on various biomolecular characteristics and interactions, as well as their relative strengths and weaknesses. E.g. IR, fluorescence, nuclear spin resonance, electron spin resonance, circular dichroism, and Raman spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, X-ray crystallography, electron microscopy, surface plasmon resonance, atomic force microscopy, calorimetry. Overview of current development trends of these methods, as well as applications of them in academic research, pharmaceutical and biotechnology industry, and within healthcare.
SK2520 Experimental Methods in Molecular Biophysics 8.0 credits
This course has been discontinued.
Last planned examination: Autumn 2023
Decision to discontinue this course:
No information inserted
The course is from autumn semster 2021 replaced by the course sk2533 "Experimental Biophysics", with essentially the same content: It gives an introduction to biomolecules, their structures, dynamics and interactions, and how experimental biophysical techniques can be used to investigate biomolecular properties. The course also gives an overview of how these techniques are used in practice within biotechnology, drug development, and academic research.
Content and learning outcomes
Course contents
Intended learning outcomes
After completing the course the student should be able to:
- explain the principles of the most important methods used in experimental molecular biophysics.
- compare strengths and weaknesses between these methods, and analyze and identify which methods are best suited for studying different biomolecular properties or interactions, at the molecular, cellular, tissue or organism level.
- explain and be able to evaluate the application potential of current development trends of these methods.
Literature and preparations
Specific prerequisites
Achieved BSc on any of the programs CMATD, CDATE, CELTE, CTFYS, CMAST, CFATE, or approved courses in mathematics and physics, corresponding to at least the courses in these subjects given on the above programs in the first three years.
Recommended previous knowledge:
Fundamental knowledge in quantum mechanics and optics advantageous, but not absolutely required.
Recommended prerequisites
Equipment
Literature
Examination and completion
If the course is discontinued, students may request to be examined during the following two academic years.
Grading scale
Examination
- LAB1 - Laboratory Work, 2.0 credits, grading scale: P, F
- PRO1 - Project, 1.0 credits, grading scale: P, F
- TEN1 - Examination, 5.0 credits, grading scale: A, B, C, D, E, FX, F
Based on recommendation from KTH’s coordinator for disabilities, the examiner will decide how to adapt an examination for students with documented disability.
The examiner may apply another examination format when re-examining individual students.
One written examination (TEN1, 5hp, grades A-F), one oral project presentation (PRO1; 1hp, grades P/F), laborations, exercises and study visit (LAB1; 2hp, grades P/F)
Opportunity to complete the requirements via supplementary examination
Opportunity to raise an approved grade via renewed examination
Examiner
Ethical approach
- All members of a group are responsible for the group's work.
- In any assessment, every student shall honestly disclose any help received and sources used.
- In an oral assessment, every student shall be able to present and answer questions about the entire assignment and solution.