Biophysics

Introduction

The biophysics background is unique in the approach it takes to studying biological problems from a physics point of view. Much of the technology used in the practice of medicine and dentistry can be better understood with a background in biophysics. Students spend at least one quarter as a physics lab assistant or physics tutor.

Fostering the growth of intellectual curiosity that will extend through postcollege years and building an appreciation of the role of physics in everyday living constitute the general objectives of the Department of Physics. For the Biophysics major there are the additional objectives of adequate preparation for entrance to one of the professional curriculums, for graduate study in physics, or for employment under the Civil Service classification of junior scientist-physicist or in a similar grade in private industry.

Biophysicists are interested in the physics of living systems and organisms. Frequently a member of an interdisciplinary research team, the biophysicist may be found in hospitals, graduate schools, government research laboratories, and private industrial research and development. A very promising specialty is radiological health physics.

Educational Qualifications

In order to specialize, graduate work is essential. One with a bachelor’s degree usually starts out as a technician and will advance to independent research and leadership with experience, competence in the field, and advanced education. Some may become science teachers in middle schools and high schools, which requires licensure. For more information, contact the School of Education. A Ph.D. in physics, astronomy, or a related field is needed for most jobs, especially jobs that do basic research or for independent research positions in industry. Those with a master’s degree in physics may qualify for jobs in applied research and development for manufacturing and healthcare companies.

Salary

The median annual wage for biochemists and biophysicists was $91,190 in May 2017. The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $48,410, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $177,840.

In May 2017, the median annual wages for biochemists and biophysicists in the top industries in which they worked were as follows:

1. Biophysics - Competency in Biophysics:

   • Students develop the ability to formulate, deconstruct, and solve complex biophysics problems using mathematics up through calculus.
   • Students develop depth of understanding in the fundamental subject areas: human body mechanics, properties of biological materials, biomedical imaging, cellular physics and statistical and thermal physics as they relate to physical and biophysical phenomena.

2. Computer Tools and Instrumentation:

   • Students use basic laboratory data analysis techniques, including distinguishing statistical and systematic errors, propagating errors, and representing data graphically.
   • Students effectively use mathematical and experimental software packages and equipment necessary for designing and implementing experiments in biophysics and physics.

3. Communication of Scientific Material to Colleagues and the General Public:

   • Students communicate using presentations and written information using appropriate use of software and multimedia modes of communication. The communication should be well-organized, logical, and scientifically sound biophysics and physics.

4. Preparation for Life After College:

   • Students are prepared for graduate study in physics, biophysics or other related disciplines.
   • Students are prepared for careers in scientifically oriented jobs in industry and business.