Biophysicists

High School

In high school, take at least one year each of biology, chemistry, physics, algebra, geometry, and trigonometry. Introductory calculus is also a good idea. English and speech classes will help you to convey your results both verbally and in writing. Many colleges also require several years of a foreign language. Language skills are useful because scientists frequently exchange information with researchers from other countries.

Postsecondary Education

Only a few colleges offer degree programs in biophysics. The Biophysical Society offers a list of undergraduate and graduate programs in biophysics at its Web site, https://www.biophysics.org/biophysics-degree-programs. Most students prepare for the field by earning a degree in physics, chemistry, or mathematics with supplementary courses in biology. Students who plan to pursue an advanced education typically earn degrees in the physical sciences or mathematics. According to the Biophysics Society, an ideal educational program would include classes in biology (introductory biology, cell biology, molecular biology, and genetics), physics (mechanics, electricity and magnetism, optics, and atomic and molecular physics), chemistry (general chemistry, organic chemistry, and physical chemistry), and mathematics (calculus, differential equations, linear algebra, numerical analysis and statistics, and computer programming). Students should also take courses in the humanities and social sciences to ensure that they achieve a well-rounded education.

You will need a master’s degree and preferably a doctorate or Ph.D. degree, to teach at the college level or direct scientific research at a university, a government laboratory, or a commercial company. Most Ph.D.’s go for more research experience (postdoctoral research) before they enter the workplace. As a “postdoc,” you would not take course work, earn a degree, or teach; you would likely work full time on a high-level research project in the laboratory of an established scientist. Typically, this postdoctoral period lasts two to three years, during which time you would get a salary or be supported by a fellowship. Though not essential for many industry research jobs, postdoctoral research is generally expected of those wishing to become professors. Also, because biophysics and medicine are interrelated, some Ph.D. recipients also earn their medical degrees, or M.D.’s, as a physician does. This is to get the broadest possible base for a career in medical research.

Other Education or Training

The Biophysical Society provides symposia, workshops, lectures, and other professional development opportunities at its annual meeting. Other organizations that offer continuing education opportunities include the Association for Diagnostics & Laboratory Medicine, American Chemical Society, American Institute of Biological Sciences, American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, and the Biotechnology Industry Organization. Contact these organizations for more information.