Molecular thermodynamics, transport, and analytics

• explain microscopic and macroscopic diffusion phenomena.
• apply Fick’s equations and boundary conditions to solve simple diffusion problems.
• calculate solutions to simple flow problems and interpret the results.
• perform Gibbs free energy calculations to predict reaction equilibrium constants.
• explain the consequences of solvation for reaction equilibrium and kinetics.
• experimentally measure and analyze binding strength and kinetic parameters.
• apply a numerical simulation to predict compound transport, equilibria, and consumption.
• describe key mammalian cell culture processes.
• culture mammalian cells in aseptic conditions.
• analyze the effects of stimuli on cell viability, metabolism, and proliferation.

The course introduces theoretical and experimental molecular thermodynamics from a chemical, physical, and biological perspective.

In the first half, we will explore both passive and active transport mechanisms, i.e., diffusion and advection, as well as core aspects of reaction equilibrium and kinetics, including Gibbs free energy, equilibrium constants, and solvation effects. We will link these phenomena to biological and bioanalytical processes in biomolecular assays and in live mammalian cell cultures. We will further apply the combined theoretical insight to perform predictive numerical simulation of the transport, equilibrium, and consumption of compounds in a biomolecular system.

In the second part, we will apply the acquired knowledge on selected experimental systems, such as binding affinity assays, biomolecular assays, and live cell cultures. An essential aspect of this part will be experimental training in core mammalian cell culture procedures and key methods to characterize cell viability, cell metabolism, and cell proliferation.

02402 or similar introductory statistics;
26000 or similar general chemistry;
26202 or similar introductory physical chemistry;
27008 or similar introductory life science or biochemistry

Lectures, problem sessions, classroom discussions, text book exercises, experimental exercises.

Maximum: 48.

Please be aware that this course has a limited number of seats available. If there are too many applicants, a pool will be created for the remainder of the qualified applicants, and they will be selected at random. You will be informed 8 days before the start of the course, whether you have been allocated a spot.