A biomedical scientist who is often under the pathologist's responsibility is more active in biomedical research than in contact with patient. They deal with various aspects of reproduction, growth and development in living organisms. They work toward developing treatments, preventing diseases, improving vaccines, equipment, improving techniques related to health care and promoting health. Human volunteers or models may be used by them to investigate health (basic) or how to prevent disorders (applied). Their research is carried out in institutes, laboratories, hospitals or industries.
The work activities of biomedical science include the following:
- Examination and analysis of human tissue and body fluids for detection and diagnosis of disease
- Growing cultures and identifying bacteria and viruses that cause infection, and deciding the best medical response
- Identifying ingested drugs or toxic substances and suggesting antidotes
- Maintaining and using laboratory equipment for the analysis of such samples
- Matching donor's blood, bone marrow or tissue with that of the patient
- Keeping records and writing reports
- Attending to professional inquiries
- Working on a shift basis or called for emergency
- Professional knowledge should me maintained and updated
- Quality control procedures should be implemented to for maintaining accurate results
- Analyzing bodily fluids and preparing blood for transfusions
- Analyzing cell compositions, body tissues and patients health
- Keeping an accurate record of the progress of the patient
- Biomedical science job options are available in pharmaceutical firms, forensic laboratories and government departments. Healthcare projects worldwide also include a part of the biomedical science jobs.
A biomedical scientist should have the following skills:
- A spirit of team work and self motivation
- Methodical approach with special attention to detail
- Impressive practical skills
- Effective verbal and written communication skill
- Skills of managing a project confidently
- Good analytical and observational skills
- Educational Qualifications
A degree in biomedical research science approved by the Health Professions Council should be possessed by the applicant. A minimum of one year in-service training is required to qualify for state registration.
Salary
The pay scale of a trainee biomedical scientist is about $20,000 to $25,000 and can go up to $50,000 or more for professional and advanced practitioners. Biomedical scientists are exploring newer avenues of careers, with extensive research and innovative technology.
