Biomedical Engineering Career Exploration Jenny Lee Stacey Stein

Biomedical Engineering Type of Work Apply knowledge of engineering, biology, and biomechanical principles to the design, development, and evaluation of biological and health systems and products, such as artificial organs, prostheses, instrumentation, medical information systems, and health management and care delivery systems.

Biomedical Engineering Type of Work (cont.) Biomedical engineers work in different areas of medicine focusing on various ways that technology can be used to treat or alleviate biological or medical problems. Some look at how different substances are processed in the body and generate medicines to enhance those processes. Others focus on developing materials that will promote healing or that can replace worn or injured body parts. Some biomedical engineers specialize in electronics or mechanics that have medical applications.

Biomedical Engineering Major Responsibilities Research new materials to be used for products such as implanted artificial organs. Develop models or computer simulations of human bio-behavioral systems in order to obtain data for measuring or controlling life processes. Design and develop medical diagnostic and clinical instrumentation, equipment, and procedures, utilizing the principles of engineering and bio-behavioral sciences. Conduct research, along with life scientists, chemists, and medical scientists, on the engineering aspects of the biological systems of humans and animals. Teach biomedical engineering, or disseminate knowledge about field through writing or consulting. Design and deliver technology to assist people with disabilities. Diagnose and interpret bioelectric data, using signal processing techniques. Adapt or design computer hardware or software for medical science uses. Analyze new medical procedures in order to forecast likely outcomes. Develop new applications for energy sources, such as using nuclear power for biomedical implants. Evaluate the safety, efficiency, and effectiveness of biomedical equipment. Install, adjust, maintain, and/or repair biomedical equipment. Advise hospital administrators on the planning, acquisition, and use of medical equipment. Advise and assist in the application of instrumentation in clinical environments.

Biomedical Engineering Working Conditions The majority of biomedical engineers work in medical, academic, industrial, and governmental research laboratories. Other employment opportunities exist in hospitals and undersea and space programs. These highly trained professions usually work 40-hours a week and face a minimal amount of workplace hazards.

Biomedical Engineering Current Salary –In 2008, the California average annual wage was $91, –Most people employed in this occupation were paid between $60, and $128, –As of May 2010 the National annual mean wage was $84,780

Biomedical Engineering Education Needed High School Preparation: High school students interested in becoming a biomedical engineer should take courses in biology, chemistry, physics, algebra, calculus, geometry, trigonometry, English, literature, composition, mechanical drawing, electricity and electronics, physical education, computer skills, sociology, and health occupations/medical professions education. College Requirements: Individuals interested in this engineering specialty must first obtain a bachelor’s degree in engineering. Most employers require that an individual have a biomedical engineering degree. Anyone interested in research or teaching must obtain a graduate degree. State engineering boards test, evaluate, and license individuals as professional engineers in the specific disciplines. Additional professional testing and certification in this specialty can be obtained through the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation and the American Board of Clinical Engineering.

Biomedical Engineering Future Employment of biomedical engineers is expected to increase faster than the average for all other occupations through This 25% - 35% rise in employment will focus largely on development of new high-tech devices for medical uses. An example of this would be the increasing research and development of computer- assisted surgery. Biomedical engineers will also be in demand in specialties such as rehabilitation and orthopedics because of exciting advancements in sophisticated medical equipment and procedures. Individuals in this profession will enjoy excellent job security as well as a very comfortable income.

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