Biofizyka i fizyka medyczna - Wydział Fizyki, Astronomii i Informatyki Stosowanej
Biophysics
Speciality: Medical Physics
The development of medicine in contemporary world is largely thanks to the use of new physical methods, supported by computer technology and by the introduction of new unique materials. Further development in these areas requires close and constant collaboration between physicians and physicists. Our graduates, well educated in both physics and biomedicine are perfectly suited to this task.
Speciality: Molecular Biophysics
The rapid development of medicine in contemporary world is largely thanks to the better understanding of physical phenomena that underlie processes in living organisms. That is the reason for the growing demand for biophysicists: the specialists knowledgeable in physics, chemistry, computer science and various disciplines of biology. The students of molecular biology learn to use experimental and computational methods of physics to conduct research into subcellular structures and the molecular mechanisms underlying biological processes.
Our study offer in the field of biophysics consists of two programmes: the first cycle programme, which offers the basic preparation in chemistry, biology, biochemistry, biophysics, and computer science, and the second cycle programme, during which the students can deepen and extend their knowledge in the fields on the borderline between biology, medicine and physics, and become experts in biophysics.
What we offer:
• studies of modern mathematics, experimental and theoretical physics, chemistry, biology, biochemistry, biophysics and computer science
• access to physical and computer laboratories, library, data analysis tools, modern research software, scientific publications, and international student exchange within the framework of Socrates/Erasmus programme,
• opportunity to take part in our research and assistance in contacting foreign scientific centres
• opportunity to continue education as a doctoral student
Specialisations
Molecular Biophysics focuses on the study of biological processes using methods derived from physics, chemistry and computer science.
Advances in molecular biology, pharmacy, biotechnology and medicine increasingly depend on understanding processes occurring at the level of individual molecules and cellular structures. Research in these areas requires sophisticated experimental, computational and data-analysis techniques.
Students gain knowledge of:
- experimental methods used to study biomolecules,
- mathematical approaches to biological systems,
- computational tools for analysing biological data,
- modelling of molecular processes,
- bioinformatics and computational methods.
A significant part of the programme consists of laboratory work carried out using advanced research equipment.
Students have access to facilities including:
- the Infrared and Raman Spectroscopy Laboratory,
- the Mass Spectrometry Laboratory,
- the Confocal Microscopy Laboratory,
- the Atomic Force Microscopy Laboratory,
- the NMR Laboratory.
The curriculum also includes the application of artificial intelligence methods and advanced data-analysis techniques in molecular and biomedical research.
Medical Physics focuses on the application of physical methods in diagnostics and therapy.
Modern medicine relies on advanced imaging technologies and diagnostic and therapeutic equipment whose operation is based on the laws of physics. This includes both conventional X-ray imaging and modern techniques such as computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging and positron emission tomography (PET).
Students acquire knowledge in:
- mathematics,
- physics,
- biomedical sciences,
- computer science,
- medical imaging techniques,
- radiation protection.
An important part of the programme is practical training in the operation and application of medical equipment as well as the use of physical methods in healthcare.
Some courses and professional placements are conducted in cooperation with the National Cancer Institute in Kraków.
Students also have the opportunity to learn about research carried out by the J-PET group, which develops medical imaging technologies based on plastic scintillators.
Another important research initiative is the Jagiellonian University Theranostics Centre, where new radiopharmaceuticals are being developed for the diagnosis and treatment of cancer.
The specialisation prepares graduates for careers including:
- medical physicist,
- medical equipment specialist,
- radiation protection officer.
Why study Biophysics at Jagiellonian University?
Biophysics at Jagiellonian University benefits from the expertise and infrastructure of several faculties and research units. As a result, students gain experience at the intersection of physical, biological and medical sciences.
Teaching takes place in modern laboratories equipped with advanced research instrumentation and supported by computational tools used in contemporary scientific research.
Students may participate in national and international research projects and take advantage of academic exchange programmes, including Erasmus+.
Career opportunities
Graduates of Biophysics find employment in:
- research laboratories,
- scientific institutions,
- biomedical organisations,
- the Life Science sector,
- pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies,
- diagnostic centres,
- healthcare institutions,
- companies developing medical technologies,
- teams specialising in bioinformatics and biological data analysis.
Graduates of the Medical Physics specialisation may pursue careers as medical physicists and radiation protection specialists.
The programme also provides preparation for further education within the Doctoral School in Exact and Natural Sciences at Jagiellonian University.