A biophysicist specializes in the interdisciplinary field of biophysics, which sits at the intersection of biology and physics. These scientists use principles and techniques from physics to investigate the physical processes and mechanisms underlying biological phenomena. They contribute to various fields, including medicine, genetics, and bioengineering.

By applying quantitative methods and tools from physics, such as spectroscopy, imaging, and computational modeling, biophysicists seek to unravel the fundamental physical principles that govern life at the molecular and cellular levels. Their research often leads to insights that have practical applications, such as the development of new medical treatments, the design of advanced imaging technologies, and a deeper understanding of the physical basis of life itself.

The interdisciplinary nature of biophysics allows biophysicists to bridge the gap between the physical and biological sciences, providing valuable insights into the intricate workings of living organisms. These scientists work to develop methods to overcome disease, eradicate global hunger, produce renewable energy sources, design cutting-edge technologies, and solve countless scientific mysteries.

Like biologists, they study life in all its forms. However, their approach is different from most biologists. Their primary concern is the universal laws of physics - how the complexity of life fits with what we know about the world. They will look at life on the atomic level, study proteins and the nervous system of all living creatures, digestion and sexual reproduction - all as they pertain to the physical world; similarly, biochemists study cell development. The two disciplines complement each other. They attempt to work out how bodily functions and entire biological systems will work and look for patterns in the natural world. They have been key in promoting and reinforcing evolutionary theory as much as a process of physics as of biology. That means they look for the environmental impact on the process of evolution, and are highly involved in genetic research, medicine and the neurosciences.

 

The Biophysics of a Brainless Animal
https://youtu.be/ImKFUHJdcLE?si=0qhXhnnvvPFqnq0z

 

 

ANZSCO ID: 234914
  
Alternative names: Biophysics Biotechnologist, Biophysics Analyst, Bio-physicist, Biophysics Research Scientist, Biophysics Research Analyst, Biophysics Scholar, Biophysics Researcher, Biophysics Scientist, Biophysics Science Researcher,

Specialisations

• Molecular Biophysicists: Study the physical and chemical properties of molecules involved in biological processes. They use techniques such as X-ray crystallography, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, and computational modeling to understand the structure, dynamics, and interactions of proteins, nucleic acids, and other biomolecules.

• Cellular Biophysicists: Investigate the physical properties of cells and their membranes, including the forces that govern cell shape, motility, and signaling. They use tools such as microscopy, atomic force microscopy (AFM), and electrophysiology to study cell structure and function.

• Neurobiophysicists: Focus on the physical principles underlying the function of the nervous system, including the mechanisms of signal transmission and processing in neurons and the dynamics of neural circuits. They use techniques such as electrophysiology, imaging, and modeling to understand the biophysical basis of brain function.

• Biomechanists: Study the mechanical properties of biological systems, including the forces that govern movement, deformation, and growth. They use tools such as biomechanical modeling, motion capture, and force sensing to understand how organisms and tissues respond to mechanical stimuli.

• Biophysical Chemists: Investigate the chemical and physical properties of biological molecules and their interactions, using tools such as spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and computational modeling to understand the thermodynamics and kinetics of these processes.

• Systems Biophysicists: Study the interactions between different components of biological systems, including cells, tissues, and organisms, to understand how they function as a whole. They use tools such as network analysis, computational modeling, and high-throughput assays to understand the complex behavior of biological systems.

Biophysicist at work
(Source: University of California)

 

Knowledge, skills and attributes

These skills and competences are sometimes, but not always, required for the role of biophysicist. However, mastering these skills and competences allows you to have more opportunities for career development.

• Write research proposals: Synthetise and write proposals aiming to solve research problems. Draft the proposal baseline and objectives, the estimated budget, risks and impact. Document the advances and new developments on the relevant subject and field of study.

• Execute analytical mathematical calculations: Apply mathematical methods and make use of calculation technologies in order to perform analyses and devise solutions to specific problems.

• Apply statistical analysis techniques: Use models (descriptive or inferential statistics) and techniques (data mining or machine learning) for statistical analysis and ICT tools to analyse data, uncover correlations and forecast trends.

• Collect samples for analysis: Collect samples of materials or products for laboratory analysis.

• Calibrate laboratory equipment: Calibrate laboratory equipment by comparing between measurements: one of known magnitude or correctness, made with a trusted device and a second measurement from another piece of laboratory equipment. Make the measurements in as similar a way as possible.

• Use measurement instruments: Use different measurement instruments depending on the property to be measured. Utilise various instruments to measure length, area, volume, speed, energy, force, and others.

• Write scientific papers: Present the hypothesis, findings, and conclusions of your scientific research in your field of expertise in a professional publication.

• Operate scientific measuring equipment: Operate devices, machinery, and equipment designed for scientific measurement. Scientific equipment consists of specialised measuring instruments refined to facilitate the acquisition of data.

• Collect biological data: Collect biological specimens, record and summarise biological data for use in technical studies, developing environmental management plans and biological products.

(Source: Career Girls)

 

Duties and Tasks

 

• Execute and perform testing as per scientific method and lab protocols

• Follow the project or company operating procedures and control programs

• Work in tandem with other biophysicists and technicians

• Prioritize daily work tasks to maintain efficient work flow

• Assure completion of scheduled tasks; meet established due dates

• Implement knowledge/expertise to successfully execute biological production

• Conduct independent process development experiments improve process, or quality

• Analyze and interpret lab results

• Explore innovative solutions to problems using scientific creativity

• Participate in decision-making processes within the project team by actively engaging in scientific and technical discussions

• Builds credibility within lab group by performing high quality work

• Effectively communicate results of own work though scientific meetings, presentations, discussions and documentation and with clients

• Report on and assist in failure investigations

• Maintain equipment in good order

• Perform calibrations and qualifications

• Keep all records and notebooks in good order

• Maintain clean and organized workbench area

• Ensure any spills are immediately cleaned and materials are discarded and replaced according to lab procedures

• Complete work orders and provide solutions for effective lab performance.

• Prepare test solutions and ensure that they are standardized across sets

• Resolve routine technical problems

 

Did You Know? What do the laws of physics, like those that define forces or energy, have to do with biology? These laws and concepts are essential to unraveling complex biological questions like how plants extract energy from sunlight and how changes in a protein’s shape affects its function. Biophysics has been critical for building many tools that are used every day in science and medicine like DNA sequencers and imaging technology, including X-ray machines and MRI scanners. In fact, a specialized X-ray technique developed by a biophysicist was used to discover the structure of DNA in 1953. Biophysics has contributed to breakthroughs in microscopy, including the development of electron and atomic force microscopy and fluorescent imaging techniques, techniques that have revealed the structures inside of cells and are critical to present-day research.
	Molecular Motors and Imaging Biophysicists study how microscopic machines facilitate movement of cargo (like proteins, neurotransmitters, or hormones) around a cell. Biophysicists developed the tools for microscopic fluorescent imaging and analysis of the signaling networks inside cells to understand intracellular systems.
	Biological Structures Biophysicists have been integral to the development of methods and tools for determining biological structures, especially X-ray crystallography, mass spectrometry, and nuclear magnetic resonance.
	Protein Structure and Modeling Biophysicists have advanced structural biology by using databases with protein structure data to develop computer models that can predict structures from sequence information
	Neurobiology Biophysicists research neurobiology at a molecular level, using biophysical approaches to understand how these cells receive and transmit signals and orchestrate long-range communication. Biophysicists have been instrumental in developing neural networks; these computer-based models can be used for the theoretical analysis and modeling of how the brain and nervous system work.
	Computational Biology The rapid collection of vast quantities of genomic, proteomic, and exome data has required the development of new nucleic acid sequencing and proteomic technologies rooted in biophysics.  Scientists have also developed computational techniques to analyze and extract useful information from large data sets and make unprecedented observations within large population samples.
	Imaging and Medicine Biophysicists have developed sophisticated diagnostic imaging techniques including MRIs, CT scans, and PET scans. Biophysics continues to be essential to the development of even safer, faster, and more precise technology to improve medical imaging and teach us more about the body’s inner workings.
	Precision Medicine This era of “big data” has ushered in a new way of thinking about medical treatments. Researchers now have the tools to rapidly sequence individual genomes and apply this information to the customization of medical treatment. This “precision medicine” approach will continue to advance as more genomic data can be linked to certain diseases. Biophysics is critical to integrating systems biology, genomics, and proteomics data into information that can guide diagnostics and medical treatment.
	Bioengineering, Nanotechnology, and Biomaterials Biophysicists work on a wide range of nanotechnology and biomaterials research, from the development of microfluidic devices, like DNA chips, and tissue engineered constructs (which enable tissues to grow new organs for implantation), to developing smart biomaterials and better drug delivery systems. (Source: Biophysical Society)

 

 

Some of the key duties and responsibilities of biophysicists include:

• Research and Experimentation: Biophysicists conduct research and experiments to understand the physical and chemical properties of biological systems. For example, they may use techniques such as X-ray crystallography, NMR spectroscopy, and electron microscopy to study the structure of proteins and other biomolecules.

• Data Analysis: Biophysicists analyze the data generated from their experiments using statistical methods and computational modeling. They use this data to develop models and theories to explain the behavior of biological systems.

• Development of New Technologies: Biophysicists often develop new technologies and techniques to study biological systems. For example, they may develop new imaging techniques that allow for the visualization of biological processes in real-time.

• Collaboration With Other Scientists: Biophysicists work closely with scientists from other disciplines, including biochemists, molecular biologists, and computational scientists. They collaborate to design experiments and interpret data.

• Teaching and Mentoring: Biophysicists may also teach and mentor students at the undergraduate and graduate levels. They may teach courses in biophysics, physics, and other related disciplines.

Real-life examples of what biophysicists do:

• Understanding the structure of DNA: Biophysicists have made significant contributions to our understanding of the structure of DNA. For example, Rosalind Franklin used X-ray crystallography to obtain the first images of DNA, which were crucial to the discovery of its double helix structure.

• Studying the properties of membrane proteins: Biophysicists have used a range of techniques to study the physical properties of membrane proteins, which play a key role in a variety of biological processes. For example, NMR spectroscopy has been used to study the structure and dynamics of membrane proteins in their natural environment.

• Developing new imaging techniques: Biophysicists are constantly developing new imaging techniques to study biological systems. For example, super-resolution microscopy allows for the visualization of biological processes at the nanoscale level.

 

 

Did You Know? Professor Graham Douglas Farquhar AO (Life On The Job - CAMEO) (8 December 1947 - ) Prize winning biophysicist Curriculum Vitae (43 pages!) - PDF 2018 SENIOR AUSTRALIAN OF THE YEAR One of Australia's most eminent scientists, Dr Graham Farquhar is helping reshape our understanding of photosynthesis, the very basis of life on Earth. After growing up with a Tasmanian farming family background, Graham has used his love of science to deliver practical benefits to the agricultural sector. His study of mathematics and physics formed the bedrock of a career creating mathematical models of how plants work. Graham has received a string of accolades during his distinguished career for his research examining how water efficient crops can protect food security in a changing climate. Importantly, he has worked to improve world food security by developing strains of wheat that can grow with less water. In 2017 Graham became the first Australian to win a Kyoto Prize – the most prestigious international award for fields not traditionally honoured with a Nobel Prize. From his long-term base at the Australian National University, Graham is tackling some of the most profound challenges facing humanity and the environment. (Source: Australian of the Year) The 2015 Prime Minister’s Prize for Science Professor Graham Farquhar ANU, Canberra Read about Professor Farquhar's work here in The Conversation Kyoto Prize - Abstract of the lecture "Ever since I was a young teenager I told people that I wanted to be a biophysicist. It was partly the desire to appear different, partly to appear more mature than I really was, but partly also to experience a newly developing field. It turned out that the arbitrary interest grew into something I love, but not without distractions along the way. Attending three different universities before I started my Ph.D. was one such distraction, but depending on one’s viewpoint, so too, perhaps, was learning ballet from the same time I started the Ph.D.  The parallels between dance and science are strong, with heavy accent on mastery of technique, the similar roles of choreographer and laboratory head, and the somewhat magical intrusion of creativity. In practice I found that dance helped my science, forcing me to organize my time efficiently, making me fitter, buoying me when the experiments dragged me down, and fostering admiration for imaginative projects done skillfully. Of course it also extended my social life and led to some firm friendships. I stopped dancing when I was forty and moved to a rural block of 18 hectares, with kangaroos, echidnas, wombats and other distractions. We raised three children, which was enormously rewarding. All this time I had thought variously about photosynthesis and plant water relations, ecology and evolution, aspects of economics and optimal control theory and some labelled me as a dilettante. However it all fitted together in thinking about whether land plants exchanged water for carbon dioxide economically. What is economical for a rich person to do with their money is not the same as what is economical for a poor person to do, and the same is true of plants, plentiful water supply corresponding to riches.  We spent a lot of time thinking about how to identify plants that are either more adventurous or more conservative. It turns out that this identification can be achieved by measuring the tiny differences in abundance of the heavier stable isotope of carbon in a leaf compared to that in carbon dioxide in the air. Marvellous! Whether viewed as a zig-zag of coincidences, or as the result of forethought, my science has been an enormous source of pleasure, and I would not have missed it for anything." (Source: Kyoto Prize) Dr. Graham Farquhar -- The 2017 Kyoto Prize Commemorative Lecture (42 mins) https://youtu.be/ovTJlbnyZY4?si=_8aI8xStY_itjceJ

 

Working conditions

Biophysics is an experiment-heavy discipline, much more so than most other biology-based subjects. Therefore, they usually work in labs. They will nearly always work in teams - each biophysicist focusing on one small area of their subject. They will also work in conjunction with other biology professionals. The major employer of graduates with qualifications in biophysics (and biochemistry for that matter) is in pharmaceuticals.

The workplace of a biophysicist can vary depending on their specific area of research and employment setting. Biophysicists can work in a variety of settings, including academic institutions, research organizations, government agencies, and private companies.

Many biophysicists work in academic institutions, such as universities and research institutes, where they conduct research, teach courses, and mentor students. In these settings, they typically have access to state-of-the-art research facilities and equipment, such as advanced microscopes, computational resources, and specialized laboratory instruments. They may work in individual or collaborative research teams, depending on the nature of their work.

Biophysicists employed in research organizations or government agencies may work on a variety of projects, ranging from basic research to applied science. They may be involved in the development of new technologies or medical treatments, or they may conduct research to inform public policy decisions. In these settings, they may work in teams with other scientists and engineers, or they may work independently on their own projects.

Some biophysicists work in private companies, such as biotechnology or pharmaceutical companies, where they may be involved in the development of new drugs or medical devices. In these settings, they may work in research and development teams, collaborating with other scientists and engineers, or they may work in product development or quality control.

Regardless of their employment setting, biophysicists spend a significant amount of time conducting experiments and analyzing data. They may work long hours, especially when conducting experiments that require close monitoring or time-sensitive measurements. They may also spend time writing grants and research proposals, presenting their research at scientific conferences, and publishing their findings in scientific journals.

Tools and technologies

They may use techniques such as X-ray crystallography, NMR spectroscopy, and electron microscopy to study the structure of proteins and other biomolecules. [See Working conditions for more details on tools and technologies]

Education and training/entrance requirements

To become a biophysicist you must earn a bachelor’s degree in chemistry, mathematics, or physics. With a bachelor’s degree one can work as a technician or assistant. However, if you want to earn the title of a Biophysicist, you must continue your education and go on to earn a master’s degree. This allows you to work in applied research and product development, only after earning a doctorate degree [PhD] can you work independently as a Biophysicist.

Many people gain experience by obtaining an internship or fellowship within a biophysics laboratory while earning their degree. Programs also require students to write a thesis prior to graduating, in addition to defending it in front of academic professors or scientists that specializes in the chosen topic.

Employment Opportunities

You can expect a large number of openings in academia - particularly in applied research at university departments and in lecturing. Using the study of physics to learn more about the biology of a plant, animal, fish or system is at the core of biophysics. A deeply interdisciplinary field, these scientists ask questions that require examination of the math and movement of biological processes. Jobs are as diverse as the world's organisms.

Outside of pharmaceuticals, you may wish to seek options with specific research organizations - government and private bodies - many of which will have specific requirements. There will be much take up in the charitable sector working for research and fund raising organizations, using donated money to conduct your research. This is usually in the medical industry alongside botanists, but is not the only choice and you will need to justify the expenses a lot more than conducted under the guidance of university funding.

Average job demand is expected to increase between 2020 and 2030 for biophysics and biochemistry by around 5%. Lab work into treatments for an aging (and healthier) population will see more demand for conditions that affect people in older age. Graduates will find more opportunities to work in research roles at smaller companies and in the charitable sector than larger pharmaceutical companies.

 

 

Biophysicist Managers are often in charge of human resources, team projects and lab assets and thus should have a minimum of 5 years of professional experience before trying for a promotion. Principal scientists often design, perform, plan and document various scientific experiments. They usually manage a team of other scientists and possess strong communication skills. In addition, they may maintain various scientific equipment and ensure it meets industry standards. They can also manage various operational aspects of the lab to ensure experiments meet guidelines and follow best practices.

ANZSCO ID: 234914

Alternative names: Principal Scientist, Biophysics Professor

Knowledge, skills and attributes

• Communication: Working in biophysics typically requires writing reports about your research findings. You may also prepare presentations and discuss the outcomes of your research with people from both within and outside your discipline. Strong communication skills are helpful when sharing status updates and concerns with team members.

• Teamwork: Many roles involve working as a team. In these situations, it's important to understand that you're working toward a common goal and that taking direction in certain situations and leading during others is an important skill to cultivate. Having strong teamwork helps to maintain everyone's motivation levels and encourages people to perform their best to ensure positive outcomes.

• Perseverance: Working in the science field can often involve trial and error. This can involve working on multiple challenging experiments or research projects at once for extended periods. Being able to demonstrate perseverance can help you remain motivated and on task.

• Critical thinking: Most roles in the science field ask you to be open-minded about new possibilities. Having the skills to critically analyse different options before making conclusions can help you discover new ideas and solve complications. It's often important to use reason and make good judgments to help ensure that all experiments, trials and studies meet the standards set out by their objectives.

• Analytical skills: Working in biophysics typically involves conducting various experiments and scientific analysis. These experiments often require strong analytical skills to understand the results of the experiment, so you can make recommendations or report on findings. In addition, accuracy and precision are often critical to ensure accurate results.
  
  Problem-solving skills: When working in this field, there may be times when you work on identifying solutions to complex scientific problems. Having the ability to problem-solve ideas may help you discover new opportunities and ideas that allow you to work more efficiently. This can be particularly useful if you're working against strict timeframes or are working for a client who wants frequent updates on the research project.

(Source: Biophysical Society)

Duties and Tasks

Their tasks may include:

• Document study protocols, reports, necessary forms and standard operating procedures

• Track assigned work and its completion or non-completion status to inform lab timelines

• Update scheduling and quality expectations according to lab results

• Assign additional lab duties to those team members who are best suited, as tasks arise

• Facilitate training sessions so that team members can fulfill testing requirements satisfactorily

• Verify and validate methods and protocols

• Follow the latest approved version of methods and standard operating procedures

• Fully comply with OHS and ethical practices

• Make procedural and technical recommendations.

• Have an aptitude for understanding technical information

• Have a solid foundational knowledge of procedures and policies for lab assignments

• Conduct trouble shooting and investigations to the point of presenting cause identification and solution to Department Manager and/or Scientific Leader.

• Strategize to improve analytical techniques, documentation practices, and daily work duties.

• Ensure that all technical and administrative documentation is complete and accurate to the fullest extent

• Ensure that all results and records are entered into the electronic Laboratory Information System

• Allow Quality Assurance personnel access to all avenues of information to ensure due diligence
  

 

Working conditions

Regardless of their employment setting, biophysicists spend a significant amount of time conducting experiments and analyzing data. They may work long hours, especially when conducting experiments that require close monitoring or time-sensitive measurements. They may also spend time writing grants and research proposals, presenting their research at scientific conferences, and publishing their findings in scientific journals. A Manager has to understand, support and supervise a team of Biophysicists to obtain the required outcome of the team or institution.

Tools and technologies

Besides all the knowledge and skills associated with a Biophysics laboratory, a Manager needs to know how to use data on a range of tools to communicate with the management of the institution.

 

Education and training/entrance requirements

Besides their orginal PhD in Biophysics, Managers should have a minimum of 5 years of professional experience before trying for a promotion.

 

 

Petrophysicists study and analyse the chemical and physical properties of oil and gas deposits, including the surrounding rocks and soil.

They collect and examine data about these reservoirs including, rock density,  pore pressure, electrical and acoustic properties of the rock and the level of radioactivity. The data they collect can be used to estimate how porous the rocks are, the volume of oil and/or gas present and whether it can be extracted.

Petrophysicists play a vital role in the search for and recovery of new oil and gas reserves, and are involved in the management of mineral resources from initial exploration right through the appraisal of deposits to development and production management.

ANZSCO ID: 234999

Alternative names: Petrophysical Engineer

Specialisations include: Mud Engineer, Petroleum engineer, Petrophysical Engineer

Knowledge, skills and attributes     

• Bachelor of Science degree in Geosciences or related discipline;

• Ability to promote open and effective communication;

• Propensity for undertaking tasks before being asked to or forced by events;

• Ability to coach others to help their development;

• Ability to work as part of a team;

• Ability to facilitate and leverage knowledge transfer within and between the exploration,
  development and production business units;

• Ability to integrate a variety of data and information into an exceptional interpretation of the
  subsurface.

      
(Source: Geonaft)

Duties and Tasks

• Designing, supervising and evaluating data acquisition programmes

• Managing and interpreting petrophysical data

• Quantifying and characterizing reservoir properties, including uncertainties

• Ensuring optimal design and suitable technologies are selected for data acquisition

• Working in multidisciplinary integrated teams to build subsurface static and dynamic models

Working conditions

Petrophysicists usually work for oil and gas mining companies, either in offices or in the field. Fieldwork is frequently in remote locations, particularly in the state's North-West, or on offshore drilling platforms. When conducting fieldwork, the hours of work can be long and often include working evenings and on weekends, in most weather conditions. Petrophysicists working in an office environment generally work standard business hours, though overtime may be required, particularly during operations. A large part of their work is done on computers.

Tools and technologies

Petrophysicists use rock samples and electrical measuring equipment, inserted into boreholes, to collect data. This data is then analysed and integrated using computers, often with specialised software. The techniques for analysing and interpreting data are constantly developing, and most petrophysicists will develop new techniques, or modify existing ones, that are best suited to the particular reservoir being examined. When in the field they must follow strict safety guidelines, which includes wearing personal protection equipment at all times. This may include overalls, boots, safety goggles, a hard hat and gloves.

 

Education and training/entrance requirements

To become a petrophysicist or petrophysical engineer, you usually need to complete a science degree with a major in petroleum geoscience, geology or physics, or a degree in engineering with a major in oil and gas, or petroleum engineering. You may need to complete further postgraduate study to specialise in petroleum geoscience, oil and gas or petroleum engineering.

Petrophysicist or petrophysical engineers generally have to gain significant practical experience in oil and gas exploration and development.

Many major oil and gas industry employers offer petrophysics to engineering graduates during their initial graduate program, thus providing on the job training within the organisation.

 

 

Professor Michelle Simmons - Quantum Physicist

 

Related Jobs or Working with these Jobs

 

Agricultural Scientist	Agronomist	Astronomer	Biochemist
Bioinformatics Scientist	Biologist	Biomedical Engineer	Biometrician
Biotechnologist	Botanist	Data Analyst	Environmental Scientist
Forensic Scientist	Geneticist	GIS Officer	Geophysicist
Intelligence Analyst	Logistics Analyst	Marine Biologist	Mathematician
Medical Imaging Technologist	Medical Laboratory Scientist	Medical Laboratory Techician	Medical Radiation Therapist
Microbiologist	Neurologist	Petroleum Engineer	Prosthetist
Teacher	University Lecturer	Virologist

 

 

Materials sourced from
Jobs & Skills WA [Physicist; Petrophysicist;]
Careers Online [Physicist;]
Petroak [Petrophysicist; ]
Career Explorer [Biophysicist; ]
Environmental Science [Biophysicist; ]
Jinn Careers [Biophysicist; ]
Indeed AU [Careers in Biophysics;]
Your Career [Physicist; ]