Quantum Biology

As nanotechnology advances, and biological studies reduce down to molecular and even atomic levels, that fuzzy world of quantum mechanics may be more relevant for biological systems than previously thought. Quantum biology and biophysics are seemingly growing fields of study, and make for a neat area of research for those who are interested in both disciplines.

For example, think about animals (and even microorganisms) that can sense and navigate via magnetic fields. How does that work? Or what are the quantum features of photosynthesis and many other life processes that take place in the atomic and molecular realms? Or how does smell work, when certain molecules are released into the air? What are the physical processes at small size scales when electrochemical signals more through neural networks in the body? What is consciousness? A review of a new book on this topic can be found here.