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A biophysicist typically works in a laboratory where they conduct biophysics research. - According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), biophysicists study how physics, such as electrical and mechanical energy and related phenomena, relates to living cells and organisms. They perform research in fields such as neuroscience or bioinformatics." According to the Occupational Information Network, duties may include: preparing reports and recommendations based on research, developing groundbreaking methods to study biological processes and its mechanisms; sharing research findings by writing scientific articles or presenting at conferences; researching and studying organisms for the purpose of new products or toward discovering the cure for a disease.
- The projected employment growth for biophysicists is faster than average through 2016. According to BLS, the top industry that employs the most biophysicists is in scientific research and development services. Other industries with high levels of employment are pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing; colleges, universities, and professional schools; architectural, engineering, and related services; and general medical and surgical hospitals.
- Biophysicists usually work within laboratories. They typically work regular hours, but may work beyond a 40-hour workweek and odd hours, depending on their type of research.
- A biophysicist needs a Ph.D. in biology or one of its subfields in order to be employed in a research, development or teaching position. For those seeking to teach at university level, a period of post doctoral work in the lab of a senior researcher is common. A record of published research is essential for basic research, especially those looking for a tenured college or university faculty position.
- According to a BLS 2008 report, the national mean hourly wage for a biophysicist is $42.53 and the mean wage is $88,450. The national annual wage ranges from $44,320 to $139,440.
