Because this is an interdisciplinary course, it is difficult to designate exact prerequisites.  However I will assume familiarity with the basics constituents of the biological matter and how they are organized (lipids, proteins, cells and tissues).  I will also assume knowledge of the fundamentals of  physics including the laws of mechanics and electromagnetism. From chemistry, I assume knowledge of the elements and the behavior of ideal gases.  Mathematically, you should be able to differentiate and integrate and be familiar with differential and partial differential equations.  The homework in this course will require computer programming using Matlab.  The relevant Rice courses in which the above material should have been covered include: PHYS 125, 126, BIOS 301, MECH 211, MATH 211, BIOE 252 and CAAM 210/211. If you have a concern about your background please speak to the instructor as soon as possible.