title: Why should biochemistry students be introduced to molecular dynamics simulations--and how can we introduce them?
abstract: Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations play an increasingly important role in many aspects of biochemical research but are often not part of the biochemistry curricula at the undergraduate level. This article discusses the pedagogical value of exposing students to MD simulations and provides information to help instructors consider what software and hardware resources are necessary to successfully introduce these simulations into their courses. In addition, a brief review of the MD-based activities in this issue and other sources are provided.
authors.affiliation: From the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry Program, Wellesley College, Wellesley, Massachusetts, 02481.
authors.forename: Donald E
authors.initials: DE
authors.lastname: Elmore
mesh_terms: D001671:Biochemistry / Q000193:education*; D056004:Molecular Dynamics Simulation; D012984:Software; D013334:Students; D013663:Teaching
keywords: biochemistry education; computational chemistry; molecular dynamics simulations; molecular modeling; undergraduate education