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Biomedical Engineers: Job Description, Education, Skills and Duties, Earnings and Outlook

Submitted by: paula

Job Overview Advancement in technology paved the way to open different kinds of profession one of which is biomedical engineering. It is a combination of two respected professional fields namely Biology which is a study of life and Engineering which is the technical study of sources of energy and properties of matter. In 1945, engineering principles are applied to biology because of new technology. This is when biomedical engineering was developed. One of the most known product of biomedical engineering is the artificial heart. Other products include the use of lasers in surgery, ultrasonics, cryosurgery, artificial organs, prosthetics and the use of thermography and computers in diagnosis.

Education,Knowledge and Trainings Required
Biology, Physics, Chemistry, Computers, Mathematics and Drafting classes help applicants prepare for a career in biomedical engineering. Logic, Writing and English classes develop problem-solving and communication skills which are needed by biomedical engineers. To practice in this field, one must either have an undergraduate degree in biomedical engineering or  a Ph.D in some aspects of biomedical engineering. Undergraduate study is divided into two parts. Theoretical subjects like abstract physics is taken in the first two years. Applied Science is taught in the third and fourth year. Students are involved in product development and research projects when they take graduate programs. Most of the state require registration from biomedical engineers before they can practice as their works may affect the health, life and safety of the people.

Skills and Abilities
A person who wants to be a biomedical engineer should have a passion in studying and learning. They need to be scientifically inclined and should know how to apply that knowledge in solving problems. The learning process in this field is long since they need to be an expert in two fields which are Medical Biology and Engineering.

Duties
Biomedical engineers work with chemists, life scientists and members of medical profession.

They usually work in laboratory wherein their work area is divided into three parts. Biomedical research involves developing mathematical models that support physiological systems. The engineers use their knowledge in chemical, electrical and mechanical engineering as well as physiology and anatomy studies. They use computers, graphic and other related technologies. Biomedical engineering design  develops medical devices and instruments. Biomedical engineers are also involved in training health care personnel in properly using equipment that they design to update laboratory, hospital and clinical procedure.

Earnings and Job Outlook
Biomedical engineers with bachelor’s degree can earn an average starting salary of $48,503 and those with master’s degree earn $53,022. Their salary depends on their experience, education and type of employer. Health care industry is growing rapidly which means that better medical equipment and devices will be needed. This means that there is an increase in job opportunities for biomedical engineers in the future.

Paula Hiz is a researcher and a human resource specialist who helps newly graduates, job applicants and post graduate professionals be aware of their job opportunities and available trainings for skills and practice upgrading.

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Word Count: 497 Date: Fri, 17 Dec 2010 Time: 2:02 AM


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