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Biophysics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Illumina, Inc.

Senior Scientist - Biophysics

San Diego, CA · On-site

$97K - $132K/yr

Single-molecule biophysics experience preferred. The ideal candidate has an in-depth understanding of biomolecular dynamics, mechanics, and interactions at the single-molecule level and demonstrated ...

705TT

Chair, Department of Biophysics

Dallas, TX · On-site

The Chair will be a guiding voice on the science of Biophysics, elevating the Department's already premier reputation on a national and international level and stimulating the creative pursuit of new ...

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How much do biophysics jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for biophysics in the United States is $134,705.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $106,000.00 and $159,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Biophysics position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Biophysics, you need a strong background in physics, biology, mathematics, and computational modeling, typically with an advanced degree such as a Ph.D. or M.S. in biophysics or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory instruments (like spectroscopy and microscopy), simulation software, and possibly certifications in relevant computational tools is often required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this interdisciplinary field. These competencies are crucial for designing experiments, interpreting complex data, and facilitating collaboration between scientific teams.

What are some common career paths or advancement opportunities for someone working in Biophysics?

A career in Biophysics offers several avenues for advancement, depending on your interests and expertise. Professionals in this field can progress from research assistant or associate roles to lead scientist or principal investigator positions in academic, government, or private-sector labs. With experience, biophysicists may transition into management roles, such as laboratory director, or pivot into related fields like biotechnology, pharmaceutical development, or scientific consulting. Additionally, there are opportunities to move into teaching or science policy roles, and ongoing professional development can help open doors to leadership or interdisciplinary project management positions.

What does a Biophysicist do?

A Biophysicist applies principles of physics and mathematics to study biological systems at a molecular or cellular level. They use techniques like spectroscopy, microscopy, and computational modeling to understand processes such as protein folding, DNA mechanics, and neural signaling. Their work contributes to advancements in medicine, biotechnology, and environmental science. Biophysicists often work in academic research, pharmaceuticals, or healthcare industries.

More about Biophysics jobs
What cities are hiring for Biophysics jobs? Cities with the most Biophysics job openings:
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Biophysics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Biophysics job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 75% In-person, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $134,705 per year, or $64.8 per hour.

Senior Scientist - Biophysics

Research and Testing Laboratory

San Diego, CA

$97K - $132K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

What if the work you did every day could impact the lives of people you know? Or all of humanity?At Illumina, we are expanding access to genomic technology to realize health equity for billions of people around the world. Our efforts enable life-changing discoveries that are transforming human health through the early detection and diagnosis of diseases and new treatment options for patients.Working at Illumina means being part of something bigger than yourself. Every person, in every role, has the opportunity to make a difference. Surrounded by extraordinary people, inspiring leaders, and world changing projects, you will do more and become more than you ever thought possible.

You are excited to develop novel approaches to sequencing DNA. As a creative, first-principles experimentalist comfortable working at the interface between biochemistry and physics, this biophysics/biochemist candidate has experience working with DNA, and/or in the study of DNA-processing enzymes such as polymerases and helicases. Single-molecule biophysics experience preferred. The ideal candidate has an in-depth understanding of biomolecular dynamics, mechanics, and interactions at the single-molecule level and demonstrated expertise in developing novel assays, troubleshooting complex systems, and interpreting single-molecule data to discern underlying mechanistic properties of a molecular system from first principles. Experience scripting or programming is a plus, as is comfort with setting up, troubleshooting, and working with new/custom instrumentation.
Responsibilities:

  • The successful candidate will design, execute and interpret single molecule experiments, utilizing an understanding of DNA, biochemistry and biophysics.
  • Effectively work within multidisciplinary and international teams and routinely interact with synthetic chemists, protein chemists, bioinformatics scientists, and engineers to solve problems and devise experimental plans.
  • Innovate and devise creative solutions to difficult biophysics problems.
  • Keep detailed lab notebooks, prepare reports, updates, and summaries for managers and team. Write technical reports and prepare presentations for cross-functional and cross-site technical teams.


Requirements:

  • PhD in biophysics, bioengineering, biochemistry, protein chemistry or related field.
  • 0-5 years of post-PhD hands-on experience with DNA-related biophysics experiments, DNA processing enzymes, or method development for DNA sequencing. Understanding of single molecule biophysics; interdisciplinary experience combining biochemistry and biophysics to engineer biophysical systems and/or discern biophysical mechanisms.
  • Familiarity and comfort working with data collection systems, interpreting data sets, and troubleshooting experiments.
  • Exceptional data interpretation skills and ability to study data to propose next steps.
  • Highly creative and inventive problem solver with a can-do attitude.
  • Excellent communication and presentation skills.
  • Highly collaborative team player.

Preferred Skills and Experience:

  • Ability to maintain custom equipment (training will be provided).
  • Ability to write scripts to process proprietary data.
  • Experience working with international cross site teams.
The estimated base salary range for the Senior Scientist - Biophysics role based in the United States of America is: $98,400 - $147,600. Should the level or location of the role change during the hiring process, the applicable base pay range may be updated accordingly. The range reflects longterm growth in the role; therefore, most candidates are hired between the minimum and middle of the range. Placement depends on experience, skills, location, and internal equity. Additionally, all employees are eligible for one of our variable cash programs (bonus or commission) and eligible roles may receive equity as part of the compensation package. We offer a wide range of benefits as innovative as our work, including access to genomics sequencing, family planning, health/dental/vision, retirement benefits, and paid time off.
We are a company deeply rooted in belonging, promoting an inclusive environment where employees feel valued and empowered to contribute to our mission. Built on a strong foundation, Illumina has always prioritized openness, collaboration, and seeking alternative perspectives to propel innovation in genomics. We are proud to confirm a zero-net gap in pay, regardless of gender, ethnicity, or race. We also have several Employee Resource Groups (ERG) that deliver career development experiences, increase cultural awareness, and offer opportunities to engage in social responsibility. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer committed to providing employment opportunity regardless of sex, race, creed, color, gender, religion, marital status, domestic partner status, age, national origin or ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, sexual orientation, pregnancy, military or veteran status, citizenship status, and genetic information. Illumina conducts background checks on applicants for whom a conditional offer of employment has been made. Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with applicable local, state, and federal laws. Background check results may potentially result in the withdrawal of a conditional offer of employment. The background check process and any decisions made as a result shall be made in accordance with all applicable local, state, and federal laws. Illumina prohibits the use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in the application and interview process. If you require accommodation to complete the application or interview process, please contact accommodations@illumina.com. To learn more, visit: https://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/pdf/eeopost.pdf. The position will be posted until a final candidate is selected or the requisition has a sufficient number of qualified applicants. This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

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