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Single Molecule Biophysics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Post Doctoral Fellow

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$47K - $64K/yr

Ideal candidate will have a PhD in Biophysics, Cell Biology or Biochemistry. Previous experience ofworking with purified proteins and/or single-molecule methods is beneficial but not required.

... biophysical chemistry. The position requires a PhD in Chemistry (or an equivalent doctorate in an appropriate field) with a focus on cryogenic electron microscopy (Cryo-EM) and/or single molecule ...

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Single Molecule Biophysics information

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How much do single molecule biophysics jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for single molecule biophysics in the United States is $21.30, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $25.96 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is single molecule biophysics?

Single molecule biophysics is a field of science that studies the physical properties and behaviors of individual biological molecules, such as proteins, DNA, and RNA. Unlike traditional biophysics that examines large populations of molecules, single molecule approaches provide detailed insights into molecular mechanisms, dynamics, and interactions. Techniques like optical tweezers, atomic force microscopy, and single-molecule fluorescence are commonly used. This research is important for understanding fundamental biological processes and can lead to advances in medicine and biotechnology.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a single molecule biophysicist?

To thrive as a Single Molecule Biophysicist, you need a strong background in physics, chemistry, and molecular biology, usually supported by an advanced degree (PhD) in biophysics or a related field. Expertise in technical tools such as atomic force microscopy (AFM), optical tweezers, single-molecule fluorescence microscopy, and data analysis software is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and collaborative communication are essential soft skills in this interdisciplinary field. These skills and qualifications enable accurate experimental design and interpretation, driving innovation and discovery at the molecular level.

What is the difference between Single Molecule Biophysics vs Molecular Biophysics?

AspectSingle Molecule BiophysicsMolecular Biophysics
Required CredentialsPh.D. in Biophysics, Physics, or related fieldPh.D. in Biophysics, Biochemistry, or related field
Work EnvironmentLaboratories focusing on single-molecule techniques, microscopy, and spectroscopyLaboratories studying molecular interactions, structural biology, and biophysical mechanisms
Employer & Industry UsageResearch institutions, universities, biotech companies
Common Search & ComparisonYes

Single Molecule Biophysics focuses on studying individual molecules using specialized techniques like fluorescence microscopy, while Molecular Biophysics examines the physical principles governing molecular interactions and structures. Both fields require advanced degrees and often overlap in research settings, but they differ in their specific methods and focus areas.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in single molecule biophysics research?

Professionals in single molecule biophysics often encounter challenges related to the complexity and sensitivity of experimental setups, such as maintaining equipment calibration and minimizing noise that can obscure single-molecule signals. Collaborating closely with interdisciplinary teams—often including physicists, chemists, and biologists—is essential to design experiments, interpret data, and troubleshoot technical issues. Additionally, staying up to date with rapidly evolving technologies and analytical methods is key for success, making continuous learning a significant part of the role.
More about Single Molecule Biophysics jobs
Infographic showing various Single Molecule Biophysics job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,307 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

Assistant Professor - Biochemistry, Biophysics and Structural Biology - Molecular and Cell Biology

University of California, Berkeley

Berkeley, CA • On-site

$84K - $132K/yr

Other

Posted 20 days ago


University Of California Berkeley rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 32 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

67th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position overview
Position title: Assistant Professor - Biochemistry, Biophysics, and Structural Biology - Molecular and Cell Biology
Salary range: The current salary range for this position is $84,100 - $132,900 (9-month academic year salary), however, off-scale salary and other components of pay, which would yield compensation that is higher than this range, are offered to meet competitive conditions.
Anticipated start: July 1, 2027
Application Window
Open date: July 24, 2026
Next review date: Monday, Oct 19, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time) Apply by this date to ensure full consideration by the committee.
Final date: Monday, Oct 19, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time) Applications will continue to be accepted until this date.
Position description
The Department of Molecular and Cell Biology at the University of California, Berkeley, (UCB) invites applications for a tenure-track faculty position in Biochemistry, Biophysics and Structural Biology, at the Assistant Professor level.
We broadly seek applicants studying fundamental aspects of Biochemistry, Biophysics, Molecular Biology, Structural Biology and Molecular Genetics. We will consider candidates across this wide field, and we are particularly interested in those who take biophysical approaches to understanding biological mechanism, or whose research addresses mechanistic enzymology. This position would have the opportunity (if desired) to interact with the Innovative Genomics Institute, the Advanced BioImaging Center, and the Developmental and Regenerative Biology group, the UCB Drug Discovery Center, and the Center for Computational Biology at the University of California, Berkeley.
Faculty at the assistant rank in our department demonstrate excellence, originality, and productivity in research, the strong potential to obtain external funding, a capacity for excellence in teaching and mentoring of undergraduates, graduate students, and postdocs, and a commitment to service consistent with Berkeley's principles of community. Applicants are encouraged to visit Molecular and Cell Biology to learn more about the department and our mission.
Our department is committed to addressing the family needs of faculty, including dual career couples and single parents. We are also interested in candidates who have had non-traditional career paths or who have taken time off for family reasons, or who have achieved excellence in careers outside academia. For information about potential relocation to Berkeley, or career needs of accompanying partners and spouses, please visit: New Senate Faculty | Office for Faculty Equity & Welfare
Department: https://mcb.berkeley.edu/
Division: https://mcb.berkeley.edu/faculty/bbs
Qualifications
Basic qualifications (required at time of application)
PhD, MD (or equivalent international degree)
Preferred qualifications
A PhD or equivalent international degree in biology, biochemistry, or a related field. A record of demonstrated excellence, originality and productivity in research. An interest in undergraduate and graduate teaching and mentorship with ability to support the success of all students through an inclusive curriculum, classroom environment, and pedagogy.
Application Requirements
Document requirements
  • Curriculum Vitae - Your most recently updated C.V.
  • Complete list of publications - This can include preprint citations
  • Research Statement - In approximately 1,500 words with intermixed figures, please discuss research accomplishments and proposed plans. This can include, for example, your publication record, awards, presentations, inclusive research practices that promote the excellence of your research, and areas for future research.
  • Teaching and Mentoring Statement - In approximately 500 words, please discuss prior teaching experience, teaching approach, and future teaching interests. This can include, for example, specific efforts and accomplishments, and future plans to support the success of all students through inclusive curriculum, classroom environment, and pedagogy. Please also discuss your mentoring experiences and approach. This can include, for example, past efforts and future plans to support the success of all students, and to foster an inclusive research environment that removes barriers and promotes equitable access and advancement of the research program.
  • Service Statement - In approximately 500 words, please discuss specific prior and proposed academic, professional and/or public service activities. This can include, for example, participating in professional or scientific associations, serving on committees that advance department, campus or discipline goals, and conducting outreach activities that can remove barriers and increase participation of academics in your field.
  • Significant Publication #1: - For each publication, in addition to the publication itself, provide a statement that begins with the manuscript title and author list and then summarizes, in approximately 300 words, the significance of the selected publication.
  • Significant Publication #2: - For each publication, in addition to the publication itself, provide a statement that begins with the manuscript title and author list and then summarizes, in approximately 300 words, the significance of the selected publication.
  • Significant Publication #3: - For each publication, in addition to the publication itself, provide a statement that begins with the manuscript title and author list and then summarizes, in approximately 300 words, the significance of the selected publication.
  • Authorization to Release Information Form - An institutional reference check will be completed only if you are selected as the candidate to whom the hiring unit would like to extend a formal offer. Download, complete, sign, and upload the Authorization to Release Information form .

Reference requirements
  • 3-5 letters of reference required
Apply link: https://aprecruit.berkeley.edu/JPF05483
Help contact: mcb_ap_assist@berkeley.edu
About UC Berkeley
UC Berkeley is committed to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in our public mission of research, teaching, and service, consistent with UC Regents Policy 4400 and University of California Academic Personnel policy ( APM 210 1-d ). These values are embedded in our Principles of Community , which reflect our passion for critical inquiry, debate, discovery and innovation, and our deep commitment to contributing to a better world. Every member of the UC Berkeley community has a role in sustaining a safe, caring and humane environment in which these values can thrive.
The University of California, Berkeley is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or protected veteran status.
For more information, please refer to the University of California's Affirmative Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment Policy and the University of California's Anti-Discrimination Policy .
In searches when letters of reference are required all letters will be treated as confidential per University of California policy and California state law. Please refer potential referees, including when letters are provided via a third party (i.e., dossier service or career center), to the UC Berkeley statement of confidentiality prior to submitting their letter.
As a University employee, you will be required to comply with all applicable University policies and/or collective bargaining agreements, as may be amended from time to time. Federal, state, or local government directives may impose additional requirements.
The University of California is committed to creating and maintaining a community dedicated to the advancement, application, and transmission of knowledge and creative endeavors through academic excellence, where all individuals who participate in University programs and activities can work and learn together in a safe and secure environment, free of violence, harassment, or discrimination. Consistent with this commitment, UC Berkeley requires all applicants for Senate faculty positions to complete, sign, and upload an Authorization of Information Release form into AP Recruit as part of their application. If an applicant does not include the signed authorization, the application will be considered incomplete, and as with any incomplete application, will not receive further consideration. Although all applicants for faculty recruitments must complete the entire application, applicants will only be subject to institutional reference checks if and when they are selected as the candidate to whom the hiring unit would like to extend a formal offer. More information is available on this website .
As a condition of employment, the finalist will be required to disclose if they are subject to any final administrative or judicial decisions within the last seven years determining that they committed any misconduct.
  • "Misconduct" means any violation of the policies or laws governing conduct at the applicant's previous place of employment, including, but not limited to, violations of policies or laws prohibiting sexual harassment, sexual assault, or other forms of harassment or discrimination, as defined by the employer.
  • UC Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy
  • UC Anti-Discrimination Policy
  • APM - 035: Affirmative Action and Nondiscrimination in Employment

Job location
Berkeley, CA

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