Physics of viruses

Abstract: The simplest viruses consist of a protein shell that encloses their genome, protecting it from the harsh environment. Among them, single-stranded RNA viruses are the most widespread and affect humans, animals, and plants. To replicate, they must solve a striking physical problem: how hundreds of proteins can reliably assemble into a symmetrical container around the genome. In this talk, I will show how methods of physics help explain this remarkable process, from theoretical models of assembly to simulations that reveal how disordered beginnings can self-organize into highly ordered shells, enabling viruses to build precise and robust structures.