The Biophysical Society is seeking the next Editor-in-Chief of the Society’s flagship publication, Biophysical Journal. This appointment will begin January 1, 2027, for one five-year term.

The mission of Biophysical Journal (BJ) is to publish the highest-quality original research that elucidates important biological, chemical, or physical mechanisms and provides quantitative insight into fundamental problems at the molecular, cellular, and systems and whole-organism levels. Articles published in the Journal should be of general interest to quantitative biologists, regardless of their research specialty.

The Editor-in-Chief is the steward of the scientific content of the Journal and must have a broad understanding of biophysics as an evolving discipline. The Editor-in-Chief must have scientific stature and be committed to the Mission and Strategic Plan of the Biophysical Society, especially to advance knowledge through connection and collaboration by navigating a rapidly evolving publishing landscape.

As the principal ambassador for and public face of the Journal, the ideal Editor-in-Chief will have broad interests in biophysics; project and/or people management skills; strong organizational skills; strong written and oral communication skills; and interest in engaging with the scientific community, including through a social media presence.

The Editor-in-Chief is responsible for carrying out the editorial policies established by the Society, and thus this position requires a commitment of 20–30% time and effort. The Editor-in-Chief is tasked to:

• Establish and maintain the scientific standards of the Journal; ensure uniformity of scientific and Journal standards across all Journal content.
• Recruit Associate Editors and Editorial Board Members and submit nominations to the Publications Committee.
• Lead and mentor BJ’s Editorial Board, and develop processes to increase the efficiency, quality, and uniformity of the editorial processes.
• Actively promote the Journal and encourage the submission of manuscripts; recruit manuscripts at conferences; commission Special Issues and Guest Editors.
• Identify emerging areas of importance and shape the future editorial direction of the Journal.
• Write editorials that discuss issues pertinent to BJ and its constituents.
• Work with the Society Office staff and publishing partner, Cell Press, on the day-to-day editorial management of BJ.

The Mission Statement of the Biophysical Society is to lead an innovative global community working at the interface of the physical and life sciences, across all levels and types of complexity. Its values are: Scientific Excellence; Integrity and Transparency; Universal Access and Opportunity; Broad Representation and Belonging; and Community Building.

The Publications Committee welcomes applications from candidates who support and are dedicated to the Society’s values. There are no restrictions on scientific interests, background, gender, or geography. To apply, please submit a CV and a cover letter outlining the motivations for your interest. We will also accept nominations. We will consider applications until March 1, 2026. Confidential applications and nominations should be made to the Publications Committee through the Society Office ([email protected]).