Biophysical Society Bulletin | December 2025

December 2025

THE NEWSLETTER OF THE BIOPHYSICAL SOCIETY

Future of Biophysics Burroughs Wellcome Fund Symposium The 2026 Future of Biophysics Burroughs Wellcome Fund speakers will highlight the work of young scientists who are currently conducting cutting-edge research at the interface of the physical and life sciences. The speakers selected are Keith Cassidy , University of Missouri; Chang Liu , Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine; Guilio Tesei , Malmö University; and Megan Ken , Scripps Research Institute. The Symposium, which is in its 18th year, will be held on February 23, 2026. Ariane Briegel and Ilya Levental , Program Co-Chairs for the 70th Annual Meeting, will co-chair the symposium. Keith Cassidy Chang Liu Guilio Tesei Megan Ken “The ‘Future of Biophysics’ is well represented at the Burroughs Wellcome Fund Symposium at the BPS Annual Meeting! This year’s symposium showcases four fantastic early-career researchers who represent the breadth, depth, and diversity of the next generation of biophysics. Come and learn where these brilliant scientists are leading our field!” — Ariane Briegel and Ilya Levental A Conversation with BPS Lecturer Lewis Kay:

Navigating a Career in Science Tuesday, February 24, 2:00 PM–3:00 PM

Join 2026 BPS Lecturer Lewis Kay on Tuesday afternoon of the Annual Meeting for an informal and inspiring discussion. In this special “fireside chat,” Kay will share insights from his scientific career—from pioneering discoveries to lessons learned along the way—and reflect on how the field continues to evolve. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions and engage directly with Kay on topics such as choosing research directions, balancing career demands, fostering collaborations, and overcoming challenges in science.

Whether you’re exploring your next career steps or seeking perspective from one of the field’s most respected leaders, this is a rare chance to gain guidance and motivation in a relaxed, conversational setting.

Inside President’s Message Biophysicist in Profile

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President’s Message

Rebuilding an Even Better Scientific Enterprise: Telling More Science Stories

What can we do in this moment when higher education, science, and expertise are all under attack in the United States, with nega tive consequences on the global scientific enterprise, and ultimately human health? We can find ways to support our community and push back against disinformation and short-sightedness, hope

opportunity to improve how we do science. I propose that one key improvement would be to increase our efforts to teach, practice, and value science communication throughout our careers. I want to be clear that this call to improve is not meant to malign our current scientific practices. We have not brought the current attacks upon ourselves: they have been systematically orches trated to achieve political, ideological, or commercial goals. No one is questioning whether we should defer to expertise when we choose who pilots the plane, designs the bridge, or performs open-heart surgery. Certain areas have been targeted, such as climate science and vaccines, because of their importance to a market sector or their value as a cultural wedge issue. This makes it even more important for scientists to share their stories to counteract the false narratives. The more that people under stand the value and the process of science, the harder it will be to undermine things like the critical importance of vaccines in the minds of the public. Two sessions on Sunday, February 22, 2026, at the BPS Annual Meeting in San Francisco aim to inspire and empower us to improve our science communication. The President’s Sym posium, “Communicating the Value of Biophysics in a Changing World,” will begin with talks from biophysicists who have experi ence as leaders in various segments of science. Jeremy Berg , for mer Director of the National Institute of General Medical Sciences, organized the letter of support for the Bethesda Declaration. As editor-in-chief of Science , Holden Thorp frequently speaks and

Lynmarie K. Thompson

fully mitigating the damage underway. BPS efforts to support our community have included a significant boost to our Bridging Funds program (funded by both Council funds and member con tributions), to help members in need to attend the Annual Meet ing, and reframing our Strategic Plan to clarify and confirm our ongoing commitment to our values. BPS has also been working hard on advocacy, with a remarkable series of actions summa rized on our website (www.biophysics.org/policy-advocacy/ stay-informed/government-policy-changes-bps-actions-and-re sources). We welcome member involvement in advocacy, for instance in response to each BPS Call to Action, and with new resources available to BPS members now that we are a FASEB affiliate (www.biophysics.org/policy-advocacy/stay-informed/ coalition-partners). There is no question that the cuts and attacks that have already occurred will have lasting impacts on science. So, a third important effort is to plan and start to rebuild, and to take this

Support the Future of Biophysics

Your contribution helps BPS provide opportunities for students and early career scientists, expand education and outreach, and strengthen our community worldwide.

Every gift—large or small—makes a difference. Together, we can ensure that the next generation of biophysicists has the tools, support, and inspiration they need to succeed.

GIVE TODAY! www.biophysics.org/DONATE

December 2025

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President’s Message

Officers President Lynmarie K. Thompson President-Elect Karen G. Fleming Past-President Gabriela K. Popescu Secretary Teresa Giraldez Treasurer Samantha Harris Council

writes in various settings in support of science. Sean Decatur , president of the American Museum of Natural History, strives to communicate the wonder of science to one of the most diverse classrooms we can imagine, with ~5 million annu al visitors of all ages and backgrounds. Following these speakers, we will hear from two more biophysicists who balance their research programs with significant outreach activities. Theanne Griffith , Assistant Professor of Physiology and Membrane Biology at the University of Cali fornia, Davis, leads a research group investigating mechanisms of proprioception. She also writes science adventure chapter books for children and co-writes a nonfiction companion book series for a Netflix show that addresses the many “Why?” questions posed by the scientists of tomorrow. Daniel Cohen , Associate Professor of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering at Princeton Universi ty, leads a research group investigating collective cell behaviors involved in healing and growth. He, too, is involved in science storytelling, which he promotes within his lab, in storytelling workshops (including one during Biophysics Week 2025), and through nightclub performances! Finally, the symposium will conclude with a panel discussion answering questions from the audi ence. I am very excited about the President’s Sym posium as an opportunity for BPS to hear from and engage with this diverse set of speakers in a discussion of how scientists can make a positive difference in these challenging times.

Building on the inspiration and ideas from the symposium, that afternoon the Annual Meeting will feature a Professional Development Work shop, “From Data to Dialogue: Artful Strategies Against Misinformation.” Workshop leaders Shahir Rizk and Maggie Fink have thought a great deal about how to tell stories about science that en gage the public, as they recently co-authored the book The Color of North , which tells stories to con vey the amazing power of proteins to non-expert readers. Similarly, they have a new podcast, Rust Belt Science , which tells stories about themselves, other scientists, and science broadly, to help to humanize the people and the endeavor. Rizk and Fink will lead this interactive workshop to provide insights and tools that enable all of us to do more and better science communication. Misguided efforts to undercut science will no doubt continue to distort reality, taking advantage of a change in public health policy or an instance of a reproducibility issue to undermine public trust. Science and medicine are, of course, not per fect, and we should and do strive to continue to improve these human endeavors that, in spite of their limitations, are very clearly our best avenue to understand truth and to maximize our health. So, it is important for everyone, especially scien tists, to regularly tell our inspiring stories about

Silvia Cavagnero Margaret Cheung Theanne Griffith Taviare Hawkins Ryota Iino Anne Kenworthy

Emmanuel Margeat Elizabeth Rhoades Renae Ryan Tamar Schlick Jing Xu Biophysical Journal Vasanthi Jayaraman Editor-in-Chief The Biophysicist Padmini Rangamani Editor-in-Chief Biophysical Reports

Jörg Enderlein Editor-in-Chief

Society Office Jennifer Pesanelli Executive Officer Newsletter

the true value of science to humanity. — Lynmarie K. Thompson , President

Executive Editor Jennifer Pesanelli Managing Editor John Long Production Ray Wolfe Meredith Zimmerman Proofreader/Copy Editor The Biophysical Society Newsletter (ISSN 0006-3495) is published eleven times per year, January-December, by the Biophysical Society, 6903 Rockledge Drive, Suite 540, Bethesda, Maryland 20817. Distributed to USA members and other countries at no cost. Canadian GST No. 898477062. Postmaster: Send address changes to Biophysical Society, 6903 Rockledge Drive, Suite 540, Bethesda, MD 20817. Copyright © 2025 by the Biophysical Society. Printed in the United States of America. All rights reserved. Darren Early Laura Phelan

Give the Gift of Membership Looking for a meaningful gift this season? Share the benefits of BPS with a colleague, student, or friend. A BPS Gift Membership opens the door to: • A global network of biophysicists • Career and funding resources • Opportunities to share, learn, connect, and grow Give a gift that inspires and supports their future in biophysics. Purchase a Gift Membership today. www.biophysics.org/giftmembership

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Biophysicist in Profile

Ellen Hyeran Kang Area of Research Actin molecular biomechanics and mechanobiology

Institution University of Central Florida

At-a-Glance

Ellen Hyeran Kang ’s journey from aspiring musician to accomplished biophysicist illustrates how unconventional paths can lead to scientific innovation and how early passions can resurface in unexpected ways.

Ellen Hyeran Kang

Ellen Hyeran Kang ’s path to becoming a biophysicist began not in a laboratory, but at a piano bench. Growing up in Busan, a coastal city on the southern tip of South Korea, she dedicated herself to classical piano from age four through her freshman year of high school, dreaming of a career as a professional pianist. When that dream did not materialize, she discovered something unexpected: a deep passion for science. “I got started in science a bit later in life than most scientists,” Kang explains. “Facing many challenges at music competi tions, I eventually decided not to pursue a career in music. However, that diversion fortunately led me to find joy in science, especially math and physics.” Today, as an Associate Professor and Associate Chair of Academics in the Department of Physics at the University of Central Florida (UCF) in Orlando, Kang leads a research group investigating the molecular mechanics of actin, a protein fun damental to cell structure and movement. Kang’s scientific education began at Seoul National University, where she earned both undergraduate and master’s degrees in physics. Her master’s thesis focused on high-temperature superconductor synthesis and characterization under the guidance of Yung Woo Park . This solid grounding in condensed matter physics would prove invaluable when she later shifted her focus to biological systems. Her transition to biophysics came during her doctoral studies at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island, in Jay Tang ’s research group. Her dissertation explored the mechanics of actin-based biomimetic systems, artificial systems that mimic biological structures. During this period, she also spent a year as a visiting graduate student in Paul Janmey ’s group at the University of Pennsylvania, studying the nonlinear elasticity of fibrin gels, proteins crucial for blood clotting. Kang credits her early exposure to science to her father, a property appraiser who, despite choosing a non-science career after earning a bachelor’s degree in metallurgical

engineering, remained passionate about mathematics and science. She recalls, “I have fond memories about the days when I spent hours solving challenging yet interesting math problems with his help and our family visits to observatories, taking a close-up view of the moon and stars in the night sky.” Her mother, an artist who taught in colleges, demonstrated the value of sharing one’s passion with students. Kang notes, “Both my parents are my inspirations. They always support me no matter what.” Kang’s postdoctoral work at Yale University in Enrique De La Cruz ’s lab proved transformative. There, she investigated how cation binding—the attachment of positively charged ions— modulates actin polymerization and filament bending me chanics. She also studied the molecular mechanisms underly ing cofilin-mediated filament severing, a process essential for cellular movement and shape changes. “During this time, I was fortunate to expand my expertise in protein biophysics and have an opportunity to collabo rate with many amazing scientists,” Kang says. “Further, my postdoctoral training allowed me to become an independent researcher.” She acknowledges the profound influence of her mentors throughout this journey: “I am very grateful to my former advisors and mentors, Dr. Tang, Dr. Janmey, and Dr. De La Cruz, who opened my eyes to learn the beautiful aspects of biophysics research through their insightful guidance and mentoring.” At UCF, Kang’s research group focuses on understanding how actin assembly and mechanics are modulated in complex in tracellular environments and in response to external mechan ical and chemical stimuli. Her lab integrates approaches from protein biophysics, cell biophysics, and nanoscience to tackle these questions. In her characteristically concise style, she describes her specialization as “actin molecular biomechanics and mechanobiology.”

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Biophysicist in Profile

Recently, her work has taken an intriguing new direction. She explains, “More recently, we are investigating how interac tions with quantum materials affect the actin cytoskeleton and cell mechanics, in close collaboration with team members in the UCF Partnership for Research and Education in Materi als Center supported by NSF [National Science Foundation], in partnership with UW [University of Washington]. We are very excited to be a part of the team!” This expansion into quantum materials represents the kind of interdisciplinary thinking that Kang finds most compelling about her field. “My favorite thing about biophysics is its multi-disciplinary nature, providing opportunities for collab orations with scientists from various other fields and disci plines,” she says. While Kang’s research accomplishments are fulfilling, she lights up most when discussing her students. “The most rewarding aspect of my work is helping my students succeed through mentoring,” she says. “It is incredible to see them grow as independent researchers and accomplish their goals in their careers, as well as life.” Her pride in her students’ achievements is evident: “I am very proud to say that my current and former graduate and undergraduate students have won many awards, prestigious fellowships, and scholarships. I am so grateful to my stu dents for bringing positive energy and building a collaborative environment.” This commitment to education extends beyond her own lab. Kang envisions expanding her contributions to include broader educational initiatives. “I also hope to contribute to biophysics education and enhance awareness of biophysics through professional mentoring and curriculum development,” she notes, looking toward the future of the field itself with optimism. “In the future, I see biophysics playing even more important roles in identifying fundamental mechanisms of complex biological systems for human health and diseases.” Kang has found valuable support and connection through the Biophysical Society. “Attending the Annual Meeting allows me to stay connected with other biophysicists in the field and to be informed about frontier biophysics research,” she explains. “BPS provides great career resources and networking oppor tunities for everyone—in particular, for students and early- career scientists.” She has been particularly active in promoting Biophysics Week, serving as a biophysics seminar coordinator and orga nizing affiliate events at UCF. The “2025 UCF Biophysics Day” was featured in the BPS Bulletin this past May. She also serves on the Membership Committee, finding the role fulfilling. “Being a member of the Biophysical Society has helped me

Kang and members of her lab building bonds by spending time together outside the lab.

build a professional network that has created collaboration opportunities,” she notes. Outside the lab, Kang maintains connections to her earlier passion and cultivates practices that keep her grounded. “In my spare time, I enjoy playing piano, practicing yoga and meditation, and spending time with my husband and teenage son,” she says. “They help me expand my perceptions and stay grounded in life.” For young researchers just beginning their careers in bio physics, Kang offers hard-won wisdom rooted in her own experience of starting later than most and navigating career transitions. “My advice to young researchers in biophysics is to keep their patience and perseverance when facing adversi ty and/or doubting about themselves,” she says. “I encourage them to have confidence in their capability to pursue careers in biophysics.” She emphasizes the importance of connection and commu nication: “Networking and communications are key elements. So, please join BPS and be actively engaged in various com munity activities!” Kang’s career demonstrates that scientific paths need not be linear, that passions from one stage of life can enrich later pursuits, and that the most rewarding aspects of science often lie not just in discoveries made, but in the communities built and the students mentored along the way. From piano competitions in South Korea to pioneering research at the in tersection of biophysics and quantum materials in Florida, her journey embodies the interdisciplinary spirit and collaborative ethos that define modern biophysics.

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Public Affairs

USCIS Clarifies Implementation of $100,000 H-1B Fee The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has issued new guidance clarifying the implementation of the recently announced $100,000 H-1B fee. The fee applies to new petitions filed for beneficiaries who are outside the United States and do not hold a valid H-1B visa, as well as to petitions filed for consular notification. It does not apply to extensions, change of status requests for individuals already in the United States, or travel for existing H-1B visa holders. Under the guidance, the $100,000 fee is required for individuals who are filing new H-1B petitions from abroad or for cases that result in consular pro cessing, even if the beneficiary is currently in the United States. The fee does not apply to current H-1B visa holders, including those who travel internationally, or to petitions for extensions of stay or changes of status for individuals already residing in the United States. Amendments to existing petitions are also exempt from the new fee requirement. The agency also noted that legal challenges have been filed against the proclamation establishing the fee, meaning that the policy could change depending on the outcome of ongoing litigation. In the meantime, USCIS advises H-1B beneficiaries to maintain valid immigration status, as any denial of a change of status or extension could trigger the new fee requirement.

NSF Tightens Eligibility for Graduate Research Fellowship, Excluding Second-Year PhD Students After months of anticipation, the US National Science Foun dation (NSF) has released new application instructions for its Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP), and the changes have drawn immediate backlash. The program, which funds more than a thousand promising graduate students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics each year, will no longer accept applications from second-year PhD students. Under the new rules, eligibility is limited to undergraduates, bachelor’s degree holders, students in joint bachelor’s–mas ter’s programs, and first-year PhD students. The update leaves some scrambling to apply within a narrow time frame. For the past decade, NSF has allowed students to apply only once during graduate school, and many were advised to wait until their second year, when their research experience and applications would be stronger. NSF has not released data on how many of the roughly 13,000 annual GRFP applicants are second-year PhD stu dents, but the change is expected to affect a significant share. In a statement, an NSF spokesperson said that the policy

aims to “restore the program’s original emphasis on support ing students at the start of their research careers.” While some researchers agree with that goal, many argue that the agency should have provided at least a year’s notice before implementing such a major eligibility change. The deci sion also puts new pressure on first-year PhD students, many of whom had planned to wait until next year to apply but now fear this may be their only chance. Alicia Jackson Named New Director of ARPA-H, Signaling Strategic Shift

Alicia Jackson has been appointed as the new Director of the Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H), officially taking office on October 20, 2025. Jackson, a health entrepreneur and former Defense Department official, succeeds Renee Wegrzyn , who was removed from the position in February 2025.

Alicia Jackson

Jackson brings a diverse background to the role. She is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Evernow, a women’s telehealth company, and previously co-founded Drawbridge Health, a biotechnology firm. Earlier in her career, she spent

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Public Affairs

five years at the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, where she led programs focused on emerging technologies. Under Jackson’s leadership and within the context of the Trump administration’s health priorities, ARPA-H is continuing several ongoing research initiatives while canceling others and launching new programs that align more closely with current policy directions. Although many of the agency’s preexisting programs re main active, the agency ended projects related to artificial intelligence in medical imaging, cybersecurity protections for hospitals, and preventive care investment research. Moving forward, ARPA-H’s priorities are shifting to reflect the current administration’s health policy goals while maintaining a focus on transformative biomedical research. Biosecure Act Expected to Become Law by Year’s End A bill aimed at preventing Americans’ genetic and health data from being accessed by Chinese biotechnology companies is expected to become law by the end of 2025. The Biosecure Act would bar federal funding to organizations working with businesses deemed “companies of concern,” a designation expected to include several Chinese biotech firms. The Senate recently passed the measure as an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), the annual

defense spending bill that has passed every year for decades. The House approved its own version of the NDAA earlier this year without the Biosecure Act, meaning that lawmakers must still reconcile the two versions. That process was tem porarily delayed by the government shutdown, but observers expect swift passage now that Congress has reconvened. Last year’s House version of the bill specifically named five Chinese companies—BGI Genomics, MGI Tech Co., WuXi Biologics, WuXi AppTec, and Complete Genomics—as firms posing national security risks. The Senate’s version takes a narrower approach, leaving it to the Department of Defense and the Office of Management and Budget to determine which foreign companies qualify as “companies of concern.” Lawmakers such as Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) argued that this approach is fairer, giving companies a chance to respond before being blacklisted. If enacted, the Biosecure Act could complicate US research partnerships and raise costs for universities and biotech firms that rely on affordable services from Chinese laboratories. Prohibitions on new federal grants involving companies of concern would probably take effect around 2028, while exist ing contracts would have until 2033 to transition. Supporters view the measure as a critical safeguard for na tional security, while critics warn it could disrupt research col laborations and slow scientific progress. Regardless, the bill signals Washington’s growing determination to limit China’s role in US biotechnology. The Biophysical Society provides many opportunities for members to get involved and give back to the biophysics community. To learn more about the different opportunities, please visit www.biophysics.org/get-involved.

Get Involved.

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For Industry Partner Membership information, contact alevine@biophysics.org. SILVER

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Publications

Know the Editor Robert Vandenberg University of Sydney

Editor’s Pick

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What are you currently working on that excites you? I am part of a really exciting collaboration with colleagues in the United States, Denmark, and Australia to develop glycine transport inhibitors for the treatment of neuropathic pain. It is a project where we are using the structure of the trans porter with various drugs bound to define what chemical modifications are possible to optimize the performance of the compounds in animal models of neuropathic pain. The project involves cryo-EM, medicinal chemistry, biophysical character ization of drug effects on the transporter, pharmacokinetics, and behavioral pharmacology. The compounds show partic ular promise and we are hopeful of taking the compounds to clinical trials in the next year or two. Who would you like to sit next to at a dinner party (scientist or not)? I am getting towards the end of my scientific career, which has prompted me to reflect on all the wonderful opportunities I have been privileged to have enjoyed. I would love to have dinner with the various scientists around the world who have made important contributions to the scientist, and person, that I am, so that I can thank them for all the small things they have done that are so important. This would include my postdoc supervisors, John Shine , Peter Schofield , and Susan Amara , as well as scientists that I have worked with such as Mike Kavanaugh , Chris Cioffi , Azadeh Shahsavar , Sarasa Moham madi , Megan O’Mara , and Tristan Rawling . I am so very grateful for their interest in me and my work, and I would like to thank them for fostering a passion for science and the joy of work ing together on projects that matter.

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Biophysical Reports Dual-view microscopy of single-molecule dipole orientations Yonglei Sun and Quan Wang “The transition dipole orientations of fluorescent molecules bound to target biomolecules give access to the target’s local structural information, and therefore can serve as unique probes in structural biology. This article proposes an alterna tive imaging geometry, referred to as ‘dual-view microscopy,’ for more efficient three-dimensional single-molecule dipole orientation measurements compared with existing schemes. The authors demonstrate using simulation that the scheme outperforms conventional epifluorescence microscopy in esti mation precision and can simultaneously measure absorption and emission dipole orientations independently. Dual-view microscopy represents a new paradigm that will further advance single-molecule orientation imaging as an emerging structural biology tool.”

Version of Record Published October 22, 2025 DOI: https:/doi.org/10.1016/j.bpr.2025.100234

Tell Me About Your Poster at BPS2026! Members of the Publications Committee and BPS Journal Editorial Boards will be viewing the posters throughout the Annual Meeting wearing buttons reading “Tell Me About Your Poster.” Introduce yourself and explain the research in your poster and you can receive a 10% discount on publication fees if your related article is accepted by a BPS Journal!

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Member Corner

Members in the News

Walter Boron , Case Western Reserve University and Soci ety member since 1985, was awarded the 2025 Christian Bohr Prize.

Three Society members were named HHMI Freeman Hrabowski Scholars: Christopher Barnes , Stanford University and Society member since 2019; Steve Bonilla , The Rockefeller University and Society member since 2021; and Theanne Griffith , University of California, Davis and Society member since 2016.

Walter Boron

Christopher Barnes

Steve Bonilla

Theanne Griffith

Clifford Brangwynne , Princeton University and Society member since 2003, was also named a 2025 Clarivate Citation Laureate in Chemistry; additionally, he received the 2025 Keio Medical Science Prize.

Michael Rosen , University of Texas, Southwestern and Society member since 2008, was named a 2025 Clarivate Citation Laureate in Chemistry.

Clifford Brangwynne

Michael Rosen

Grants & Opportunities The Robert A. Welch Award in Chemistry The purpose of this award is to foster and encourage basic chemical research and to recognize, in a substantial manner, the value of chemical research contributions for the benefit of humankind. Who can apply: No self-nominations are allowed. Deadline: January 31, 2026 Website: https:/ welch1.org/awards/welch-award-in chemistry/welch-award-guidelines

2026 Lasker Awards in the Categories of Basic Research, Clinical Research, and Public Service The Albert Lasker Basic Research Award is for a funda mental discovery that opens up a new area of biomedical science. The Lasker-Debakey Clinical Medical Research Award is for a major advancement that improves the lives of many thousands of people. The Lasker-Bloomberg Public Service Award is for four criteria related to sup porting medical science and public health. Who can apply: Anyone who has made an original and significant contribution in basic or clinical medical re search, or in public service, is eligible for nomination. Deadline: February 2, 2026 Website: https:/ laskerfoundation.org/awards/ award-nominations/

Student Spotlight Anna Gaffney University of Chicago

What do you think makes the study of biophysics unique? I think the most beautiful part of biophysics is the ability to draw connections between living systems of all scales through the physical laws that govern our world. Working in this highly collaborative field, I can connect with scientists trained in a range of disciplines—from mechanical engineering, to immunology, to astrophysics, to surgery—and find a common ground with all of them in biophysics.

Anna Gaffney

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Annual Meeting

Thank you to our sponsors: American Physical Society Avanti Research Bruker Burroughs Wellcome Fund Chroma Technology Leica Microsystems Nanion Technologies Nicoya Lifesciences Nuclera Sophion Bioscience Thermo Fisher Scientific “BPS provides a valuable platform for networking and sharing a collective vision aimed at the betterment of society, encouraging meaningful collaboration. The exchange of ideas and joint efforts to tackle challenges are vital for achieving career goals.” — Thayaparan Paramanathan, Bridgewater State University

Present Your Late-Breaking Research and Inspire Tomorrow’s Solutions!

Did You Receive Your Programming Notice? Programming notices were sent the week of November 23 to those who submitted abstracts by the October 1 deadline. Check your email and contact the Society Office if you did not receive notification.

Late Abstract Deadline: January 6, 2026 Did you miss the early abstract submission deadline but have research findings you are ready to share? Submit your late abstract to receive valuable feedback and be included along with the abstracts that were submitted by the October 1 deadline.

Abstracts Programmed Program Committee members along with Council reviewed and sorted submitted abstracts, which were programmed during the virtual programming meeting into 51 platforms and 98 poster sessions. Approximately 500 posters will be presented each day of the meeting. This year there will also be 25 “Symp and Workshop Select” talks as well as 153 platform flash talks. BPS members finalized programming of platform and poster sessions for the 2026 Annual Meeting.

The Society thanks the Program Committee, Council, and members who participated in the planning, review ing, sorting, and programming this year. Their work ensures that the final program reflects the breadth of re search areas in biophysics with as few programming conflicts as possible. The 2026 Program Committee members are Ariane Briegel , Ilya Levental , Margaret Cheung , Kumiko Hayashi , Syma Khalid , Francesca Marassi , and Tamar Schlick . The other Society members who participated are David Piston , Michael Pusch , and Erin Sheets .

BPS members and staff meeting to finalize programming of platform and poster sessions. Left to right starting with top row: Dorothy Chaconas, Umi Zhou, Ariane Briegel, Jennifer Pesanelli, Linda Columbus, Sudha Chakrapani, Anne Kenworthy, Henry Colecraft, Erica Bellavia, Joseph Mindell, Christopher Yip, Ally Levine, and Bill Kobertz.

Calling All Bloggers Application Deadline: January 14, 2026 Interested in sharing your thoughts about the scientific sessions, networking, can’t-miss spots in San Francisco, or anything else Annual Meeting-related with the biophysics com munity? Apply to be a guest blogger at #bps2026! You can enhance the experience of your fellow attendees by sharing your perspective, while also adding blogging to your CV! To apply, visit www.surveymonkey.com/r/BPSbloggers2026.

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Annual Meeting

Public Affairs Sessions From Data to Dialogue: Artful Strategies

Inside Perspectives and Opportunities: NSF Grants Tuesday, February 24, 3:00 pm –5:00 pm The National Science Foundation’s (NSF’s) Biological Sciences Directorate strongly supports biophysics researchers through its Division of Molecular and Cellular Biosciences. At this session, program directors and officers with expertise in biophysics will be providing details on the NSF grant-making process as it currently stands with a particular emphasis on grant writing and submission for new and early career investigators. Publications Event Meet the Editors— Biophysical Journal , Biophysical Reports , and The Biophysicist Monday, February 23, 10:15 am –11:15 am Take this opportunity to meet editors of all three of the Society’s prestigious journals! The Editors-in-Chief, members of the Editorial Boards, and BPS staff will be available to answer your questions about what areas of research the journals cover, how to give your paper the best chance of being accepted, the submission process, special issues, and anything else related to BPS journals. Student Volunteers Deadline: January 9, 2026 Want to attend the Annual Meeting for free? Volunteer! Undergraduate or graduate students—here’s your chance to attend the Annual Meeting and get your registration fully refunded. Volunteer just six hours of your time during the Annual Meeting and you will receive complimentary registration in return. To be eligible, you must be a current member of the Society with fully paid registration. Interested? Send an email to meetings@biophysics.org by January 9, 2026, to apply. Learn more at www.biophysics. org/2026meeting/general-info/student-volunteers.

Against Misinformation Sunday, February 22, 2:30 pm –4:00 pm

Boost your science communication skills in this interactive workshop with Shahir Rizk and Maggie Fink . Through games, discussions, and hands-on activities, you’ll learn to explain complex ideas clearly, engage diverse audiences, and fight misinformation. We will discuss research surrounding science communication and practical strategies on how to make our research accessible, inspiring, and impactful. The workshop will also explore the role of art and storytelling as powerful tools to convey complex scientific information and to rebuild trust within our communities. From PhD to Policy Wonk: Exploring Career Opportunities Outside Academia and Industry Monday, February 23, 1:00 pm –2:30 pm New generations of biophysicists are exploring career pathways outside of the lab by using their expertise to impact science and health policy on the state and federal levels. Join the Public Affairs Committee for a panel discussion by current and former BPS Congressional Fellows and learn more about how they have used their PhD to impact policy both during and after their fellowships and if this might be the path for you. Inside NIH: Grant Opportunities for Biophysicists Tuesday, February 24, 1:30 pm –3:30 pm The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is the world’s largest funder of fundamental biomedical research. You have likely spent years training and are now ready to apply for an NIH grant. But where do you start? At this session, program directors and officers with expertise in biophysics from various Institutes will be providing details on the NIH grant process with a particular emphasis on grant writing and submission for new and early career investigators.

Don’t Wait—Reserve Your Hotel Today! Deadline: January 30, 2026

biophysics.org/ 2026meeting

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Meetings

Biophysical Society Conference Membrane Fusion and Budding Estes Park, Colorado, USA October 5–10, 2025 The Biophysical Society Conference on Membrane Fusion and Budding took place in Estes Park, Colorado, chaired by Arun Anantharam (University of Toledo), Michelle Knowles (University of Denver), and Ling-Gang Wu (National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health [NIH]). The conference focused on exocytosis and budding across vastly dif ferent systems, with exciting, cutting-edge science presentations ranging from organelle division in malarial parasites to exo- and endocytosis in diverse cell types to in vitro membrane fusion and endocytosis on supported lipid bilayers. To characterize these systems, state-of-the-art techniques were used and described; these ranged from molecular biology to cell biology, electrophys iology, super-resolution imaging, cryo-electron tomography, single-particle cryo-electron microscopy, and mathematical modeling. Speakers attending the meeting hailed from not only the United States, but also Germany, France, Spain, Canada, China, South Korea, Taiwan, and Australia. Initially, the conference boasted 98 scientists registered; however, just days before the meeting, 15 NIH-affiliated registrants, including one of the organizers, Wu,

had to cancel their travel plans because of the US Government shutdown. This resulted in several talks, and even an entire ses sion, being eliminated. Despite this, 52 invited talks, 9 short talks selected from submitted abstracts, and 24 poster presentations went on as scheduled. The conference offered ample time for informal discussion, potential collaboration, and socializing around the stunning beauty of Estes Lake, with herds of resident elk randomly walking by and hiking trails of the Rocky Mountain National Park within 10 minutes’ driving distance. Survey participants considered this meeting unique, of high-quality, and focused on fusion and budding, yet diverse across different systems; the meeting was welcoming, diverse, and intimate. Many attendees enthusiastical ly expressed their hope to attend this conference every two years. The organizers obtained sufficient funds to support the meeting from three sponsors. On the basis of this highly positive feedback, they propose to continue holding this meeting every two years. The organizers express their sincere gratitude to the sponsors of this conference for their generous support: National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, the Biophysical Society, and Leica. They express huge gratitude to BPS Staff Dorothy Chaconas , Erica Bellavia , and Ray Wolfe , who helped to secure the conference location and took care of all logistics.

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Meetings

Congratulations to the Winners of the Biophysical Journal Poster Competition Biophysical Journal sponsors poster awards at BPS Confer ences to highlight and support the work being done by the next generation of biophysics researchers. At the Membrane Fusion and Budding conference, 17 posters were considered for the awards, and 4 were selected. Student Winners and Poster Titles: Samantha Ryken , University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, USA Calcium Regulated Plasma Membrane Expansion and Remodeling During Neuronal Morphogenesis

Biophysical Journal poster award presentation (from left to right): Arun Anantharan (event organizer), Minkwon Cha, Avinash Kumar, Tanner Wherley, Samantha Ryken, and Michelle Knowles (event organizer).

Postdoc Winners and Poster Titles: Minkwon Cha , POSTECH, South Korea Control of Snare-Driven Vesicle Fusion by Synapsin Condensates on Freestanding Membranes Avinash Kumar , Yale University, USA Membrane-Mediated Modulation of SNARE Complex Assembly and Disassembly Dynamics

Tanner Wherley , Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, USA Myomaker and Ether Lipids Cooperate to Promote Fusion-Competent Membrane States

Submit your paper.

cell.com/biophysreports

Join the Find a Biophysicist Network (FaB) Use Your Expertise to Make a Difference!

Be an inspiration to your community and help change the lives of those interested in or studying science. Sign up to be a mentor, K-12 classroom visitor, speaker, science fair judge, or student chapter sponsor. The Network is easy to join and an incredibly rewarding way to give back. Every connection you make strengthens our community and helps expand the reach of biophysics.

For more information, visit www.biophysics.org/get-involved.

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Career Development

What Can You Do with a PhD? A Lot More Than You Might Think

The study also examined careers in science communication and publishing. Individuals who did best in these fields often had broad scientific interests rather than a single narrow focus, and they enjoyed explaining complex ideas to diverse audiences. Many shared that they enjoyed how these roles allowed them to stay connected to science while exercising their strengths in writing, teaching, and public engagement. Ultimately, McGee emphasized that the best way to de termine the right career path for you is to think carefully throughout your training about what parts of science you truly enjoy. What do you like or dislike doing in the moment? What specific parts of research are you best at? The most satisfied scientists were those who did this, and who con tinued to explore new experiences even after identifying a likely path. Career preferences can shift over time, he noted, but that is not necessary for exploration to be valuable. Even if your goal stays the same, sampling other career paths will leave you with a firmer idea of why. McGee spent the first 20 years of his career in laboratory research focused on neurobiology and cellular pharmacology, and he now uses that experience to study how young scien tists develop and to design research training for scientists at all levels. His work in that area ranges from the “basic science” of how undergraduate and PhD students make their career decision to assisting junior faculty develop into fully established scientists. He utilizes a multidisciplinary approach that incorporates physical and social science techniques to conduct a wide variety of studies in support of these goals. Some examples include randomized controlled trials to test the effectiveness of novel coaching and teaching techniques, the application of specialized analytical frameworks to study career outcomes from marginalized groups, and a longitudinal study tracking the career progress of 500 PhD students over more than a decade. For those interested in learning more, the full webinar record ing is available in the BPS Video Library (www.biophysics.org/ video-library).

BPS recently hosted a webinar with Rick McGee , Associate Dean for Professional Development at Northwestern Univer sity Feinberg School of Medicine, who shared findings from his team’s long-term study following hundreds of biomedical PhD students as they moved from graduate school into a wide range of careers over more than a decade. His study examined the path each scientist took and where it led them, while also attempting to learn how satisfied they were with their choices. The goal of this webinar was to help current and future students when planning their own paths forward, and some of the key takeaways from his team’s research can be found below. Interestingly, for those who went on to become faculty, the study found no connection between postdoc length and job placement. What the participants shared instead was a deep interest in specific research areas and a desire for indepen dence in their work. Many had explored other career options along the way but ultimately returned to academia because they were motivated by the freedom to pursue their own scientific questions. Those who found the most satisfaction in faculty positions often viewed their research as a personal interest rather than just a professional goal. Participants who found greater fulfillment in industry re search careers were similar to those who became faculty, but they tended to express more frustration with the slower pace of academic research. They also reported enjoying the collaborative environment of industry while avoiding some of the additional demands that come with faculty positions (particularly grant writing). While science consulting is similar to industry research in many ways, consultants move between projects frequently. This appealed most to those who thrived on intellectual vari ety. The participants who enjoyed these roles were ones who had a love for the scientific research process itself, but who may not have had a particular niche that they preferred.

Numbers By the

Since launching the Networking Events program in 2011, BPS has supported 110 events held around the world, either in person or virtually.

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Career Development

How Do I Write an Abstract? An abstract is the first impression of your research, and one way to think of it is to imagine it as a trailer for your research story, an attempt to persuade readers to read the full article or confer ence attendees to attend your poster or talk. In addition, it serves as an eleva tor pitch to convince the conference to a broader audience. The challenging aspect of writing an abstract is the restrictive word limit, usually ranging between 150 and 300 words. For example, the Biophysical Society An nual Meeting recommends a 300-word upper limit for the title and body of the abstract (no graphics) and a 25-author limit. By contrast, some conferences—such as the American Crystallo graphic Association meeting—allow more generous abstracts (several hundred words) and even an option to include a couple of graphics or figures. However, being allowed to write a longer abstract does not mean you should write one. The adage of “less is more” has never been more apt than when you’re de ciding on how lengthy your abstract should be. In general, abstracts fall into two classes: structured, which clearly follow the IMRaD format (Introduction, Methods, Results, and Discussion), and unstructured, which include the same elements in order without labeled sections. Structured abstracts make it easy for readers to locate specific infor mation and are widely accepted in journals and conferences. Unstructured abstracts are more flexible and concise, although they require careful attention to ensure that all key elements are included. Some authors prefer other approaches, such as beginning with the main result or takeaway and then present ing methods and outcomes. organizers or journal editors to give you an opportunity to present your research

Regardless of layout, the general expectation is that an abstract should include elements from all parts of the full article or presentation. At minimum, an ideal abstract should include the following: • Two or three sentences (~40–50 words) introducing your research problem in the context of the existing literature while highlighting the knowledge gaps that your research aims to fill; • Two to three sentences (~40–50 words) stating the specific aims and the methods used (or to be used) to achieve them; • One or two sentences (~20–30 words) underscoring the most important outcome or expected outcome of your work; and • One or two sentences (~20–30 words) discussing the impact and applications of the results from your work on your immediate area of interest and the broader research field. Taken together, these points show that an abstract works best when it is focused. No matter which format you choose, it should give readers the key parts of your study: the problem, your goals and methods, the main result, and why it matters. The outline provided above is an easy way to make sure that each of these points is included without going over the word limit. By keeping sentences short and purposeful, your abstract can both capture attention and give an accurate preview of your research. — Molly Cule

Access expert advice on topics like: • Navigating career transitions • Science communications • Leadership and mentorship • Work-life balance in academia and industry Explore these resources at your own pace and gain valuable insights to support your professional growth. Start learning today at www.biophysics.org/ondemand Expand Your Skills with BPS On-Demand Looking to strengthen your professional skills and advance your career in biophysics? The BPS On-Demand Video Library offers a wide range of webinars and resources focused on career development, mentoring, and essential skills for scientists at all career stages.

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