Physics of Life 2025 Conference Highlights

The Physics of Life 2025 conference, held at the Harrogate Convention Centre from March 24-27, was a celebration of innovation and knowledge-sharing in the field of biological physics. BSI members led across sessions and topics, contributing to the diverse array of discussions and presentations.

Key highlights included talks by Durham BSI’s Ehmke Pohl, Margarita Staykova, Jonathan Heddle, and Aakash Basu. Ehmke Pohl chaired the session on "Natural and Synthetic Molecular Machines," which featured insightful presentations by Atlanta Cook from the University of Edinburgh and Jonathan Heddle from Durham.

Ehmke Pohl’s presentation on the "Structural Biology of the Virosphere," explored the diverse roles of viral proteins and their potential applications in the bioeconomy. Aakash Basu's talk, which was part of the "Emerging Areas in the Physics of Life" session organized by the British Biophysical Society, focused on the mechanical code of DNA and its influence on DNA-protein interactions. His research on the Loop-seq technique for analysing DNA flexibility, offers fresh insights into DNA mechanics. Margarita Staykova's talk on "Interstitial Hydrodynamic Instabilities Sculpt Cell Adhesion Contacts" was featured in the "Cell Architecture and Forces" session, adding to the diverse range of topics covered at the conference.

Overall, the Physics of Life 2025 conference showcased the strength and unity within the biophysics community. It brought together a vibrant community of researchers who shared their insights and enthusiasm to advance the field of biological physics.

Image above: Speakers in the Natural and Synthetic Molecular Machines Session 

Image above: Dr Aakash Basu presenting: "Deciphering the mechanical 
code of DNA and its impact on DNA:protein interactions"

Image above: Professor Jonathan Heddle presenting: Progress towards programmable biological matter. 

Find Out More 

• Dr Aakash Basu
• Professor Jonathan Heddle
• Professor Ehmke Pohl
• Dr Margarita Staykova
• Physics of Life 2025