The University of Queensland
 
 
Centre for Mathematical Physics
 
SEMINAR
 
 
Speaker: Joel Gilmore, Condensed Matter Theory Group, 
 University of Queensland
 
 
Title:  Quantum mechanics in biology




 
When: 10am, Wednesday 7th Sept. 2005
 
Where: Priestley Blding, room 641
 
 
Abstract:
 
Quantum mechanics forms the basis of physics - but what role does it play in life?  Of course, it determines 
the structure of proteins and the chemistry of bonds, but much more interesting is where biology has 
evolved to use uniquely quantum effects to do things better.  Photosynthesis and vision are just two 
examples - Roger Penrose and others have even suggested that quantum coherence is the basic of 
consciousness!  However, for any of this to be possible, evolution would have to overcome the problem 
of strong decoherence from the "hot and wet" environment.



In my talk, I'll explain how the interaction of biomolecules with the surrounding proteins and solvent can be 
described by the spin-boson model, which is very useful for studying decoherence and exhibits rich 
(non-trivial!) many body physics.  We've then used these models to study systems of biomolecules coupled 
by FRET (Fluorescence Resonant Energy Transfer), in particular the light harvesting complexes of photosynthesis.
Finally, I'll describe how FRET spectroscopy might be used to experimentally investigate the cross-over from 
classical to quantum behaviour.
 
All interested are invited to attend.
 

Enquiries to Katrina Hibberd email: keh@maths.uq.edu.au