Lectures build bridges among scientists
by StuarT wolpert
ucla today
Robijn Bruinsma is a theoretical physicist who delves into molecular
biology, one of a growing number of UCLA scientists whose reach
has extended way beyond the traditional boundaries that once divided
the sciences.
To highlight outstanding research and promote the bridge-building
that’s going on across the scientific community on campus,
a popular lecture series was launched this school year. Bruinsma
will talk about his research in “Physics and the Life of a
Virus,” part of UCLA’s Science Faculty Annual Research
Colloquium Series. He will speak on March 18 at 4 p.m. in Boyer
Hall, room 159.
“There’s a new generation of theoretical and experimental
physicists who are totally comfortable with molecular biology and
who apply ideas from genetics and concepts from physics,”
said the physicist. “You cannot just think like a physicist.
You have to be able to think in more than one way to obtain a complete
picture.”
Working with colleagues in physics, chemistry and biochemistry,
Bruinsma and his fellow researchers want to know, for example, how
proteins can generate mechanical force. “We ask, ‘What
are the maximum limits?’ in the same way that scientists 200
years ago asked what the maximum limits were of a steam engine,”
he said.
In studying protein and DNA, Bruinsma asked, “Can we understand
how the parts work together in terms of the principles of physics?
Yes, in some cases we can, through a combination of theory and experiment.
As a result, it’s a whole new world.”
Future speakers in the series include Keith Holyoak, professor
of psychology, speaking about “The Analogical Mind”
April 15; James McWilliams, professor of atmospheric and oceanic
sciences, discussing “Simulating the Atmosphere and Ocean
as Whole Systems: Learning a New Science and Envisioning Earth’s
Future” May 20; and Kang Wang, professor of electrical engineering,
speaking about “Nano-electronics and Nano-architectonics”
June 10. All will be held at 4 p.m. in 159 Boyer Hall.
To see the full slate of speakers, go to: www.college.ucla.edu/colloq.htm.
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