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Phd Biophysics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Illumina, Inc.

Senior Scientist - Biophysics

San Diego, CA · On-site

$97K - $132K/yr

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 ...

Catalog

Biophysics Programmer

Charlestown, MA

A PhD in biophysics, bioinformatics, computer science, statistics, or a related discipline, reflecting a strong academic foundation. A proven ability to design and build sequence design and analysis ...

The Pennsylvania State University

Requirements A PhD in Biophysics, Physics, Biological Physics, or Quantitative Biology or a closely related field is required. The successful candidate will have a strong foundation in biophysics ...

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How much do phd biophysics jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for phd biophysics in the United States is $29.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.48 and $32.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a PhD Biophysicist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a PhD Biophysicist, you need advanced knowledge of physics, biology, and chemistry, typically supported by a doctoral degree in biophysics or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory techniques, computational modeling tools, and data analysis software (such as MATLAB or Python) is essential. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication are important soft skills for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and presenting research findings. These skills are crucial for driving innovative research, interpreting complex biological systems, and contributing to advances in science and medicine.

What are PhD biophysicists?

PhD biophysicists are scientists who have earned a doctoral degree in biophysics, an interdisciplinary field that applies the principles of physics and mathematics to understand biological systems. They conduct advanced research to investigate the physical mechanisms underlying biological processes, such as protein folding, molecular interactions, or cellular dynamics. PhD biophysicists often work in academic institutions, research labs, pharmaceutical companies, or technology firms, contributing to advancements in medicine, biotechnology, and fundamental biology.

What can I do with a biophysics PhD?

A PhD in biophysics prepares individuals for research roles in academia, industry, or government, focusing on understanding biological systems through physics principles. Graduates often work as research scientists, data analysts, or in biotech and pharmaceutical companies, utilizing skills in laboratory techniques, data analysis, and scientific communication. Some may also pursue careers in science policy, consulting, or education.

What are some common collaborative projects a PhD in Biophysics might work on within a research institution?

PhD biophysicists frequently collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, including biologists, chemists, and engineers, to tackle complex problems such as protein structure analysis, drug discovery, and the development of novel imaging techniques. These projects often require integrating experimental data with computational modeling, meaning effective communication and teamwork are essential. It's common to participate in joint grant applications, contribute to publications, and share findings at group meetings, which fosters both scientific growth and professional networking.

Is a bio PhD worth it?

A PhD in biophysics prepares individuals for research, academia, and specialized roles in biotech and healthcare industries, often requiring strong analytical and laboratory skills. While it can lead to high-level positions, it typically involves several years of study and may have limited immediate job opportunities outside research or academia, making career prospects variable based on industry demand and individual goals.

What jobs can I do with a biophysics degree?

A PhD in biophysics qualifies individuals for research scientist roles in academia, government labs, or industry, focusing on understanding biological systems through physics principles. Graduates can also work in biotech or pharmaceutical companies as research scientists, data analysts, or product developers, often utilizing skills in laboratory techniques, data analysis, and computational modeling. Additionally, careers in science communication, patent law, or regulatory agencies are options for those with advanced research experience.

Are biophysicists in demand?

Biophysicists are in growing demand due to advances in biomedical research, drug development, and biotechnology. They often work in research institutions, healthcare, and industry, requiring strong analytical skills and knowledge of laboratory techniques. Employment prospects are favorable for those with advanced degrees and specialized expertise.
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Phd Biophysics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Phd Biophysics job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 18% Internship, 9% As Needed, 63% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,245 per year, or $29.4 per hour.

Senior Scientist - Biophysics

Research and Testing Laboratory

San Diego, CA

$97K - $132K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 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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