The role of biomedical scientists

[Mohameda]

Biomedical scientists investigate tissue and body fluid samples to diagnose disease and monitor the treatment of patients. From screening cancer to diagnosing HIV, from blood transfusion to food poisoning and infection control, biomedical scientists are a vital part of modern healthcare, working in partnership with doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals. Doctors treat their patients based on results of diagnostic investigation by biomedical scientists, while departments such as Accident & Emergency and operating theatres rely on biomedical scientists for emergency blood transfusions and blood grouping, testing for suspected overdoses, conditions such as leukaemia or patients suspected of having a heart attack.

Why my baby is so lucky to be here - an example of the work of biomedical scientists

The work of biomedical scientists must be accurate and efficient as patients' lives may depend on their skills. They are continually increasing their knowledge as laboratory techniques develop and research transforms the cutting edge of science and medicine. Scientists learn to work with sophisticated equipment to employ a wide range of complex techniques to perform their roles.

Career opportunities
Biomedical science is a continually changing, dynamic profession with diverse long term career prospects including management, research, education, advanced roles and specialised laboratory work. UK biomedical scientists are employed in National Health Service and private sector laboratories but also work in other organisations such as the National Blood Authority, Health Protection Agency and Medical Research Council. They are also employed in a variety of roles including the veterinary service, the Health and Safety Executive, university and forensic laboratories, research, pharmaceutical, commerce, Her Majesty's Forces and various government departments.

There are also opportunities for biomedical scientists to use their training and skills in healthcare posts and projects around the world. They can be found in voluntary work in developing countries on behalf of international bodies such as the World Health Organisation and the Voluntary Service Overseas.

Biomedical science represents an opportunity to put scientific knowledge into practical use and perform a key role within medical healthcare that offers career satisfaction for many in the profession. Biomedical scientists learn skills and gain qualifications that can be transferred all over the UK and can be recognised worldwide.

How do I become a biomedical scientist?
Modern pathology and biomedical science laboratory work involves complex and diverse investigations that require an in-depth scientific knowledge of anatomy, physiology and pathology. Like many other professions a biomedical scientist will need to complete a suitable degree course. University entry qualifications usually include 'A' Level biology and chemistry and GCSE mathematics or equivalent.

Biomedical science degree courses accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science are designed specifically for the profession.

BSc honours biomedical science degrees are designed to give you basic scientific knowledge and training. Most honours degree courses are full time, with some having a placement year (sandwich course) to gain practical experience of working in a laboratory. Part-time options are also available.

Co-terminus degrees co-ordinate and deliver the education and laboratory training for graduation and eligibility for registration (see below) to be simultaneous. Practical training is delivered by placements within local laboratories as part of the degree.

What happens next?
Anyone who wishes to be employed as a biomedical scientist in a pathology or biomedical laboratory in or serving the NHS must be registered with the Health Professions Council. The requirements for registration are an honours degree and the Institute’s Certificate of Competence. The practical training for the certificate may be undertaken following graduation, but is also incorporated into “co-terminus” or sandwich programmes. After graduation biomedical scientists then go on to specialise in one of the following laboratory disciplines:

Cellular pathology
Clinical chemistry
Haematology
Immunology
Medical microbiology
Transfusion science
Virology

As their careers progress, biomedical scientists can move into research, training and education, advanced and specialised roles, product development and commerce