Eligibility
As far as the eligibility of an individual desiring to pursue a career in biophysics is concerned, that individual should compulsorily have an undergraduate degree. The undergraduate degree should not be just any undergraduate degree, but an under graduation degree with physics, chemistry and biology as the core subjects. Some institutes also offer undergraduate programmes with special attention given to biophysics. In India however there are only few universities that offer courses in biophysics at the undergraduate level. However, fortunately for students in India, there are a sizeable number of institutes offering Masters and PhD level programmes in biophysics. A PhD program from a reputable institute will take a minimum of four years to complete.
Details Of The Course
Typically, a course in biophysics is an undergraduate course with a specialization in the subject, a masters program or a doctoral level degree, which focuses on explaining the nuances of the subject. An undergraduate course with a specialization in biophysics will give the student an introduction to the subject. A masters program will step it up a notch by explaining and stressing on various modules that will help the student gain a thorough understanding of the subject. A doctoral level program will aim at employing advanced biophysical and surface analytical tools to help the enrolled individual study biomolecules and various other biological processes. The ultimate goal of a PhD in biophysics is to leave no stone unturned and empower the individual to carry out research and develop remedies for biological disorders.
Career Prospects
Becoming a biophysicist is not the easiest thing in the world, but for those who become one, the future is promising and exciting. A physics, biology or a chemistry degree with a specialization in biophysics or a PhD in biophysics will throw open to an individual a large number of options. Years ago a career in biophysics may not have been the best option, but now more than ever before a career in biophysics can prove to be extremely rewarding and fulfilling. A biophysicist can find employment as a biophysics researcher or scientist with research institutes or government organizations. A biophysicist can also find employment in a biophysics related industry. Biologically-oriented high-tech companies, pharmaceutical companies and the like will be more than willing to hire the services of a qualified and experienced biophysicist. A biophysicist can even find employment as a professor or ‘member of faculty’ in a university offering a program in biophysics.
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University of Delhi, Delhi, India
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Harvard University, Boston, United States of America
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Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, United States of America
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All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi
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Manipur University, Imphal ( Manipur ), India
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Mahatma Gandhi University: Faculty of Applied Science, Kottayam, Kerala, India
