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Biophysics Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Novartis

Principal Scientist, Biophysicist

San Diego, CA · On-site

$119K - $222K/yr

You will work on-site full-time and bring deep expertise in biophysical assay development and high-throughput screening. If you have a passion for advancing scientific discovery and thrive in a fast ...

IT Engagements

Scientist II

South San Francisco, CA · On-site

Biophysical, biochemical & biological analyses such as SPR/BLI for PPI assessment, enzymatic activity assays * Operating FPLC for protein purification * Cloning and mutagenesis * Independently design ...

System One

Associate Research Scientist

Alameda, CA · On-site

Independently develop, optimize and execute small molecule compound profiling and HTS biochemical and biophysical assays * Consistently contribute to the design, planning, and execution of HTS ...

New

Astera

General Prism Job Application

Emeryville, CA · On-site

$100K - $300K/yr

We work at the interface of experimental structural biology (crystallography, cryo-EM), machine learning, computational biophysics, and open scientific tooling. Our team spans computational ...

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Biophysics information

See California salary details

$62.2K

$132.9K

$211.7K

How much do biophysics jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for biophysics in California is $132,941.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,600.00 and $156,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in biophysics?

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.

Do biophysicists make good money?

Biophysicists typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $70,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced roles in research, industry, or academia may offer higher compensation, especially with specialized skills and advanced degrees such as a Ph.D.

Is biophysics a good career?

Biophysics is a multidisciplinary field combining biology and physics, often requiring advanced degrees such as a Ph.D. for research roles. Careers in biophysics can include research, academia, or industry positions, with job prospects influenced by scientific expertise, technical skills, and experience in laboratory tools and data analysis. The field offers opportunities in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology sectors.

What can a biophysicist do?

A biophysicist studies the physical principles underlying biological systems, often working in research laboratories, academia, or industry. They may analyze biomolecules, develop imaging techniques, or model biological processes using tools like spectroscopy, microscopy, and computational methods. Their work supports advancements in medicine, biotechnology, and environmental science.

What are the most commonly searched types of Biophysics jobs in California?

The most popular types of Biophysics jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Biophysics jobs in California?

For Biophysics jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Biophysics jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Biophysics jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Biophysics jobs?

Cities in California with the most Biophysics job openings:

Biophysics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Biophysics job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 55% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 6% Temporary, and 33% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $132,941 per year, or $63.9 per hour.

Postdoctoral Researchers -- Zhou Lab

Buck Institute

Novato, CA • On-site

$73K - $81K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Protein Biochemistry and IDR Structural Biology
POSITION SUMMARY
The Zhou Lab at the Buck Institute for Research on Aging is seeking highly motivated Postdoctoral Researchers to join a multidisciplinary research program focused on the structural and functional biology of intrinsically disordered proteins and regions (IDPs/IDRs).
Successful candidates will contribute to a collaborative research program aimed at understanding how sequence, mutation, post-translational modification, binding partners, and environmental conditions reshape IDR conformational ensembles. The project integrates protein biochemistry with emerging structural and biophysical technologies, computational modeling, and large-scale interactome measurements.
Postdoctoral Researchers will work closely with Research Associates, computational scientists, and external collaborators to generate and characterize IDR proteins for structural and interaction measurements.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Develop and optimize purification and sample-preparation workflows suitable for IDR-containing proteins for measurements including single-molecule profiling, HDX-MS, mass spectrometry, and other structural/biophysical assays.
  • Perform biochemical and biophysical characterization of purified proteins and assess sample quality, stability, oligomeric state, and conformational behavior.
  • Develop and perform in vitro assays examining IDR interactions, condensation, aggregation, and responses to candidate binders or small molecules.
  • Work with computational team members to interpret experimental results in the context of predicted conformational ensembles.
  • Maintain rigorous experimental records and contribute to milestone reports, manuscripts, presentations, and publications.
  • Help mentor research associates and junior laboratory members involved in the project.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Ph.D. in biochemistry, molecular biology, structural biology, chemical biology, biophysics, protein science, or a related discipline.
  • Strong hands-on experience with recombinant protein expression, purification, and biochemical characterization.
  • Demonstrated ability to independently troubleshoot experimental workflows.
  • Strong quantitative and organizational skills.
  • Ability to work effectively within a multidisciplinary and multi-institutional team.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Prior experience purifying and handling intrinsically disordered proteins or IDR-containing proteins is strongly preferred.
  • Experience working with aggregation-prone, phase-separating, or structurally heterogeneous proteins.
  • Experience with protein interaction assays, protein aggregation/condensation assays, SEC, chromatography, native PAGE, DLS, mass spectrometry sample preparation, or related biophysical approaches.
  • Familiarity with some of the structural methods such as mass spectrometry, metabolomics, HDX-MS, cryo-EM, NMR, single-molecule measurements, or molecular-dynamics-informed experimental design. 
This position is particularly well suited for a scientist interested in working at the interface of protein biochemistry, structural biology, proteomics/metabolomics, and computational modeling.
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
  • $73,760 - $81,440 annual salary depending on skills and experience
  • Comprehensive benefits including medical/dental/vision coverage, paid time off, paid parental leave, 401(k) employer contribution, and a student debt repayment option.
ABOUT THE BUCK
The Buck Institute for Research on Aging is the first independent biomedical research institute in the United States devoted solely to research on aging. Located in Novato, California, the Buck brings together scientists across multiple disciplines to study the mechanisms of aging and age-related disease to help people live better, longer.
The Buck Institute is an equal opportunity employer. We strongly encourage applications from candidates whose experiences and perspectives will contribute to the diversity and excellence of our community.
TO APPLY
Please submit online:
  • A curriculum vitae or resume
  • A cover letter addressing your past research experience, plans, and expectations for working in the lab
  • Any relevant publications, projects, or code.

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