Biophysical Society Bulletin | March 2026

Member Corner

Wellcome Mental Health Award: Advancing Target Validation for Novel Mental Health Drug Discovery This award aims to support research activities to validate novel targets that have a clear therapeutic concept, a strong biological rationale, and relevance to early inter vention in anxiety, depression, and/or psychosis. Who can apply: Those who work in disciplines relevant to drug discovery and mental health science and who are from an eligible organization based anywhere in the world other than mainland China. Deadline: April 15, 2026 Website: https:/ wellcome.org/grant-funding/schemes/ target-validation-mental-health

American Federation for Aging Research: Diana Jacobs Kalman/AFAR Scholarships for Research in the Biology of Aging This scholarship opportunity aims to give students the chance to learn more about the field of aging research, as well as increase their understanding of the challenges involved in improving the quality of life for older people, through a three- to six-month project focused on bio medical research in aging. Who can apply: Applicants must have completed at least two years of an MD, DO, PhD, or combined degree program by the start date of the award and must be in good standing at a not-for-profit institution in the United States (including universities, medical schools, hospitals, and non-government agencies). Deadline: April 15, 2026 Website: www.afar.org/grants/afar-scholarships

Student Spotlight

Sijin Chen Scripps Research Institute What skill have you learned in your studies that you find useful in other aspects of your life? During my PhD program, I’ve learned the value of systematic problem-solving: breaking issues down, testing ideas, and even running my own little “control experiments” when something in life isn’t working. It’s surprising how often this scientific mindset helps me navigate everyday challenges with more clarity and confidence. It becomes a habit of thinking that stays with me wherever I go.

Sijin Chen

Get Involved. 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.

March 2026

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