Your degree in Biophysics

Skills you’ll develop

While studying Biophysics, you’re learning how to apply physics concepts and problem solving skills to biological processes. This includes a strong understanding of both the life sciences and the laws of physics to solve problems within living organisms.  

These skills may include:

• Observation and interpretation of the physical basis of underlying biological phenomena
• Application of theoretical mathematical and physics concepts to real world problems, particularly with respect to human systems and biological problems
• Usage of computer programming to create complex models or solutions
• Application of logic, imagination, judgment and abstract thinking to solve problems across and between disciplines
• Connecting, integrating, and analysing information
• Quantifying and running complex calculations and statistical analyses
• Communication of complicated ideas through advanced technical writing
• Usage of a wide range of advanced electronic and non-electronic instruments, machines and lab equipment across physics, chemistry, biology, and medicine

Explore career possibilities

Career opportunities vary widely across a range of fields including medical research, clinical services, disease understanding and treatment, technical writing, government services, project management, health data analysis, equipment monitoring and control, finance, and others.

There are many career paths that can combine your academics, skills, and experience with your different interests. Read through the job titles below for ideas. Some career options may require further education or training.

Visit the National Occupational Classification website to research basic requirements and responsibilities of jobs in your field.

Make the most of your specialization

Your experiences will open doors to new opportunities and help clarify your values and interests.

• UBC Biophysics Student Society
  Meet other UBC Biophysics students through events and programs.
• UBC Physics Society
  Attend student events, seek mentorship, and meet other UBC Physics students.
• UBC Science Co-op
  Gain work experience in biophysics between study terms.
• Departmental research opportunities
  Reach out directly to faculty members to ask about potential research positions.
• UBC Physics Olympics
  Volunteer to support local high school teams competing in a series of physics events.
• Metro Vancouver Physics Circle
  Provide guidance to advanced high school students in physics through biweekly sessions.
• Saturday Morning Lectures
  Attend lectures at TRIUMF to learn about the frontiers of modern physics.
• Faraday Show
  Volunteer at UBC’s annual science show for kids in term 1, through demonstrations and hands-on activities.
• CAP University Prize Exam
  Compete with other undergraduates in this national Physics competition and win prizes in term 2.
• UBC Physics outreach initiatives
  Interact with elementary and high school students through workshops and sessions.
• UBC Department of Physics events
  Check out the range of departmental events, including seminars, colloquia, and lectures.
• UBC Physics resources for students
  Attend workshops and browse resources in the Physics department.

Build your network

Employers often hire people they know, so help them get to know you. You can build your network through clubs, classes, informational interviews, and more. There are so many ways to make connections and find mentors.

The professional associations below are also great resources for meeting people, learning about specific industries, and finding job and volunteer opportunities. Most have reduced membership rates for students and new grads.

• American Association of Dosimetrists
• American Association of Physicists in Medicine
• American Nuclear Society
• Biophysical Society 
• Canadian Association of Physicists
• Canadian Organization of Medical Physicists
• IEEE Nuclear Plasma Sciences Society
• International Organization for Medical Physics
• International Organization of Chinese Physicists and Astronomers  
• LGBTQ+ Physicists
• Medical Physics for World Benefit 
• National Society of Black Physicists
• National Society of Hispanic Physicists
• Ontario Association of Physics Teachers
• Radiological Society of North America
• Society of Physics Students
• Women in Physics Canada

Connect with alumni on LinkedIn

Find UBC Biophysics graduates on LinkedIn to learn about where they’re working, and their career and academic paths.

More information

From your Science degree, you’ll develop skills and experiences that can translate into many career paths. Check out other things you can do with your Science degree.