NSIM

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Biomedical engineers are specialists who help to develop advanced healthcare technology. Biomedical engineers work with a wide range of medical, technical and administrative staff and, at times, patients. Responsibilities of the job include:

• designing, testing and implementing new medical procedures, such as computer-aided surgery and tissue engineering

• designing, developing, testing and modifying products, equipment and devices

• liaising with medical, engineering and scientific staff

• training staff to use equipment safely

• maintaining equipment

• writing reports and documentation

• undertaking relevant research 

Qualifications and training required

To become a biomedical engineer, a good degree in a relevant subject such as biomedical engineering, biomedical science, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering or physics is required. Postgraduate qualifications can be beneficial (particularly for non-engineering graduates), and may be necessary for some posts.

Key skills for biomedical engineers

• Careful measurement and analytical skills

• Good attention to detail

• A good eye for design

• The creative and technical ability to turn designs into products

• The ability to empathise with patients

• Communication and teamworking skills

Typical employers of biomedical engineers

• Hospitals

• Universities

• Research organisations

• Diagnostic/medical instrumentation manufacturers