Biophysicists

Employers

There are approximately 33,180 biophysicists and biochemists employed in the United States. Nearly 64 percent work for scientific research and development services. Many work for government agencies at the federal, state, and local levels. Major governmental employers of biophysicists include the National Institutes of Health, the Departments of Agriculture and Defense, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and national laboratories. Biophysicists also work for biotech and pharmaceutical companies, university medical schools, nonprofit organizations, and colleges and universities

Starting Out

Biophysicists with bachelor’s degrees usually begin work in industry or government as research assistants doing testing and analysis. In the drug industry, for example, they might analyze the ingredients of a product to verify and maintain its quality. Biophysicists with master’s degrees may enter the field in management, marketing, or sales positions, whereas those with doctorates usually go into basic or applied research. Many Ph.D. graduates work at colleges and universities where the emphasis is on teaching.