Biophysics and Soft Matter Physics
Concerned with the study of molecules formed by a large number of atoms. The first aims to identify general mechanisms underlying biological processes and seeks to understand, for example, how molecular machines work, how neurons communicate with each other and how plants use solar energy to produce energy-rich substances. The second studies substances such as colloids, polymer solutions, emulsions and foams that do not fall into the categories into which condensed matter (solid, liquid or gaseous) is traditionally categorised. The knowledge derived from both disciplines has laid the foundation for numerous applications in technology, biomedicine, pharmaceuticals and food.