Dear Colleagues,

Quantum biology is an emerging science of the 21st century developed on the premise that subtle quantum effects may decisively shape biological processes and functions in living systems. This assumption breaks with the traditional notion that biological systems are essentially classic, relying on the averaging of very large numbers of particles or events that annihilate quantum traits. Instead, life appears to utilize single particles obeying quantum laws to generate macroscopic consequences, whereby a quantum advantage is often anticipated.

The concept of quantum biology is astonishing, as typically quantum characteristics, such as wave-like motion, are only observed in systems that are both small and cold, rather than hot, wet, and noisy. This notion also implies that the traditional, i.e., classical, description of life processes, which has developed over the last century, is still incomplete and promises future technologies with which to enhance health and medicine.

Over the last decade, the field of quantum biology has been propelled by experimental and theoretical efforts that have led to remarkable discoveries at the interfaces of traditional disciplines. Non-trivial quantum effects are now considered central to diverse phenomena, such as photosynthesis, certain enzyme-catalyzed reactions, magnetoreception, and spin effects in biochemical reactions, to name but a few. While the idea of a quantum advantage was central to early developments, the field is now increasingly considered to encompass all biological phenomena for which the language of quantum mechanics provides the most natural description.

This Special Issue aims to explore and celebrate the diverse and emerging field of quantum biology from an interdisciplinary perspective, spanning the arc from behavioral biology to theoretical physics. Observational, experimental, and modelling studies that showcase the latest developments in the field are highly encouraged.

Dr. Daniel R. Kattnig
Dr. Clarice D. Aiello
Guest Editors

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• quantum biology
• non-trivial quantum effects in biology
• quantum tunnelling
• quantum coherence
• photosynthesis
• energy transport
• magnetoreception
• spin and magnetic field effects