We have all heard about the futuristic technologies developed in the medical field. But have you ever wondered who is responsible for their creation? All these are the creations of a Biomedical engineer. Simply put, Biomedical engineering is the area of science where the application of engineering principles and problem-solving approaches to biology and medicine.
This is visible throughout healthcare, from diagnosis and analysis of treatment and recovery. All this has gained traction as a result of the proliferation of implantable medical devices such as a pacemaker, and breast implants, as well as more futuristic technologies such as Phakic Intraocular Lenses, stem cell engineering or 3-D printing of biological organs to name a few.
Engineering is a creative topic that has produced everything from automobiles to aerospace, skyscrapers to sonar. Biomedical Engineering is concerned with technological advances that promote human health and health care at all levels. Now that you have a brief idea of what the field caters to follow the article to understand the nuances of this unexplored domain of engineering.
How is Biomedical Engineering different?
While entering any engineering discipline, you must have a strong interest in science and mathematics in order to address highly technical challenges. You must be willing to contribute the life sciences and medical expertise required to grasp the framework of the challenges on which you will work for biomedical engineering.
Because of the interdisciplinary nature of biomedical engineering, this is not part of the typical engineering education and demands not only above-average competence in maths and physics but also a willingness to embrace these other fields. In their approach to fundamental knowledge, current life sciences have become increasingly analytical and computer-based, and the biomedical business is today regarded as one of the cutting-edge industries whose benefits we are only now beginning to harvest.
These industries’ production directly benefits people’s health and well-being. As a result, the biomedical engineer is frequently drawn to both the humanistic component and modern technology. Implantable cardiac pacemakers and defibrillators, joint replacement implants, biomedical imaging, innovative drug delivery systems, and tissue-engineered skin used for grafting are just a few examples. If you are interested in these themes and applications, and you appreciate the challenge of working with such people-oriented challenges, then Biomedical Engineering is for you.
Biomedical engineers collaborate with a wide spectrum of specialists, including those from other engineering specialities, basic laboratory scientists, physicians, and nurses. Good communication skills are required since the biomedical engineer, frequently serves as the general interpreter for such highly educated individuals who understand both engineering and medical terminology.
Where Do Biomedical Engineers Work?
Often, a biomedical engineer will find work in a laboratory or hospital setting. Many works for manufacturers of medical equipment and supplies. Several bioengineers work for companies that make navigational, measuring, electromedical and control devices.
These specialists frequently collaborate with other experts, such as bioengineers, scientists, and healthcare professionals. While much of their work is done in research and development labs, engineers may need to travel to healthcare facilities to see their products in action.
Biomedical engineers not only design a novel biocompatible device, but they also look for ways to improve and mass-produce it. As a result, this is an excellent career path for people who value continuous growth. Recall that engineering is a field that arose from the need to solve problems. Although biomedical engineers operate mostly in laboratories, they must consider how their gadgets will function in real-world settings.
Medical Device Manufacturers
Medical device manufacturers create a wide range of medical devices, such as prostheses and implants. They also manufacture bandages and syringes, wheelchairs and canes, stents, and prosthetic joints. Medical devices can be employed either externally or inside, however, they are largely non-biological in nature.
Medical Diagnostic Equipment Manufacturers
MRI and X-ray machines, as well as patient monitoring equipment and other comparable devices, are examples of diagnostic equipment. Fitbits and wearable cardiac monitors are both instances of medical diagnostic equipment, albeit Fitbits are not legally recognized as such.
Businesses that specialise in genetic engineering
Agricultural and medical items created for a specific function or purpose are examples of genetic engineering products. Pharmaceuticals, pesticide-resistant plants, foods genetically altered for longer life, and plants developed to generate more food are all examples of genetic engineering products.
Research Institutes and Medical Nonprofits
Nonprofit medical organisations and research institutes are at the forefront of advancing science and technology in health care. They hire scientists and bioengineers who are enthusiastic about the problems they are attempting to solve. Medical organisations typically specialise in a single health concern and fund research in that field.
The Future of Biomedical Engineering
Medical diagnostics have a market value that triples every year. Medical imaging and diagnostic innovations are transforming the way doctors practice medicine. Innovative medical gadgets developed in biomedical engineering research facilities around the world have completely revolutionised the way physicians treat sickness and injuries, enhancing the quality and length of human life.
Finally, the future of biomedical engineering is linked to both the concerns and challenges we discover, as well as breakthroughs and achievements in domains such as chemistry, materials science, and biology. As in most other fields, interdisciplinarity here too signifies that innovation originates from multiple directions at one given point in time.
Demand>Manpower
A biomedical engineer, like most careers in healthcare, is a solid career choice. This employment is highly sought after and pays well.
Biomedical engineering firms use technology to develop pharmaceutical medications, surgical robots, micro-implants, and other cutting-edge items that benefit human health. Its staff is dedicated to solving medical problems and supporting healthcare innovation.
As a result, a job as a biomedical engineer is suitable for someone who is interested in the realm of healthcare and has an analytical mind. Furthermore, because most businesses just require a bachelor’s degree to offer a person in-depth knowledge of engineering principles, this career is suitable.
A profession in biomedical engineering is also advantageous if one wants to earn much more than the average salary. Biomedical engineers are handsomely compensated. Biomedical engineers earn an average of $90,000 per year. A year’s compensation might range from $70,000 to more than $115,000.
This is also a good career in professional development. Because the industry is always evolving, biomedical engineers must continually improve their skills.
To be effective in this profession, a person must have a broad range of knowledge and abilities, as well as be prepared to stay current on scientific and medical research and have a thorough awareness of the rules.
Explore a Career in Bioengineering
Bioengineers help patients and healthcare professionals by creating novel medical goods, devices, and services that solve difficult challenges. Bioengineers assist patients in regaining their ability to walk, preserve the environment and food supply, reengineer genetic code to eliminate congenital disorders, maintain the safety of medical equipment, and execute a variety of other complex activities.
Who should work as a bioengineer? If you enjoy science and have an analytical mind and are interested in a career that mixes medicine and engineering, bioengineering may be the field for you.
If you’re interested in such a career, explore our curriculum at the ACS College of Engineering (ACSCE) in Bangalore and hold on to your seat.