Physical Biology of the Cell

by Rob Phillips, Jane Kondev, Julie Theriot

Physical Biology of the Cell is a biophysics textbook that explores how the basic tools and insights of physics and mathematics can illuminate the study of molecular and cell biology. Drawing on key examples and seminal experiments from cell biology, the book demonstrates how quantitative models can help refine our understanding of existing biological data and also be used to make useful predictions. The book blends traditional models in cell biology with the quantitative approach typical in physics, in order to introduce the reader to both the possibilities and boundaries of the emerging field of physical biology. While teaching physical model building in cell biology through a practical, case-study approach, the text explores how quantitative modeling can be used to build a more profound, intuitive understanding of cell biology.

Genres: Biology, Science, Physics, Textbooks, Biography

800 pages, Paperback

First published November 18, 2008

About the author

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Reviews

[Martina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Physical Biology of the Cell is a lovely book. While I think it's more suitable for biologists initiating themselves into (bio)physics, it's certainly a fun read for a physicist. Although I would have personally liked more mathematization, I don't think that was the intention of the book and I respect that. Luckily, the vast quantity of illustrations (cartoons ;)) and the lovely writing style make up for any eventual quibbles.

[Helin Henstridge · Rating 2 out of 5]

It is interesting, although it definitely was not helpful for my homework assignments even though the professor recommended us this book. I do think there's a lot of content and ways to solve problems that is skipped over in this textbook, but I definitely still learned a lot.

[Scott · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really great textbook on biophysics, still going through it, but they do a fantastic job, with wonderful example problems.

[Anja · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent, well-written and engaging text.