The Biomedical Science Field: Dynamic and Varied
You can’t turn on the TV without seeing some aspect of biomedical science. From the CSI forensic scientist testing a piece of hair for DNA, to the biochemist behind the latest blood pressure medication, biomedical scientists perform a variety of exciting, crucial roles in our society. Whether you’re about to enter the job market, or currently looking for a new position, your biomedical training probably offers more career opportunities than you’re aware. Here is an overview of a few of the major fields and occupations.
Academic Research
One aspect of biomedical science is performing basic research in an academic setting. This research creates new knowledge to serve as the building block for later applied research and development. While most of this research happens in a lab, some of it can be more theoretical, for example, exploring bioethics and the relationship between biomedical research and society. Here are a few areas of academic research that one can pursue in graduate school, with a biomedical background:
- Vascular Biology
- Biomedical Chemistry
- Biophysics Pathology
- Cellular Biology
Clinical Professions
People with backgrounds in biomedical science may also work in hospitals, practicing different areas of medicine or doing research. Unlike working in a lab, these individuals must learn to combine their scientific background with good communication and interpersonal skills, in order to provide excellent medical care.
The solid biomedical background of biology, anatomy, pharmacology, and physiology uniquely prepares individuals to attend professional school for the following careers:
- Nurse Practitioner
- Physician
- Pharmacist
- Physical Therapy
Private Industry
While scientists in academic institutions make basic breakthroughs, it takes the researchers at private companies to turn these findings into a marketable good. Biomedical scientists are key in researching and developing many types of goods, from pharmaceuticals to foods to medical devices. Biomedical scientists might work in different capacities on certain projects; those in the position of scientist perform basic experiments, while others might act as group leaders or managers to oversee an entire project.
Government
The government continues to be an important employer of biomedical scientists. Some work as policy advisors, helping lawmakers and others in government understand particular aspects or implications of scientific research. Environmental science is another growing arena in which these scientists’ input is important. Such scientists must not only have a solid grasp of scientific principles—they must also be able to clearly convey these principles accurately so that political decisions can be made on solid scientific evidence.
Source:
Job Search for Biomedical Science Careers. (2010) Marquette University.