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Biomedical scientists
This page describes the role of biomedical scientists, and the specialist areas that they can work in.
Background
Biomedical scientists carry out a range of laboratory tests to assist doctors in the diagnosis and treatment of disease. The work is highly varied and both practical and analytical and the majority of biomedical scientists specialise in:Medical microbiology
Disease causing micro-organisms are isolated for identification and for susceptible to antibiotic therapy. Diseases diagnosed in this way include meningitis, food poisoning, and legionnaires disease.Clinical chemistry
Scientists analyse blood and other biological materials to assist the diagnosis of, for example, diabetes. They carry out toxicological studies, test kidney and liver functions and to help monitor therapies.Transfusion science
Biomedical scientists support hospital blood banks and the blood transfusion service. They prepare blood transfusions and plasma fractions to administer to patients and are responsible for ensuring that the blood groups of both donors and patients are compatible.Haematology
Involves the study of the morphology and physiology of blood to identify abnormalities within the different types of blood cells. Such tests are necessary to diagnosis different types of anaemia and leukaemia.Histopathology
Tissue samples from surgical operations and autopsies are processed for microscopy using specialist techniques.Cytology
This discipline is best known for its work in screening cervical smears but it also provides a non-gynaecological service. Like histopathology specialised techniques are used to prepare and study samples of cellular materials.Virology
Specialists test for infections such as rubella, herpes simplex, hepatitis and HIV and also screen selected populations at risk from virus disease. Rapid diagnosis is particularly important in this discipline in order to prevent the inappropriate use of antibiotics.Immunology
Deals with the conditions of the body's immune system and its role in infectious diseases, parasitic infestations, allergies, tumour growth, tissue grafts and organ transplants. This discipline is particularly important in the monitoring and treatment of AIDS.Working as a biomedical scientist
Without biomedical scientists, hospital departments such as accident & emergency and operating theatres could not function.The roles of biomedical scientists in an area such as surgery includes tests for emergency blood transfusions and blood grouping as well as tests on samples from patients who may have overdosed, or may have leukaemia or are suspected of having a heart attack.
Cancer, diabetes, toxicological study, blood transfusion, anaemia, meningitis, hepatitis and AIDS are just some of the medical conditions that are investigated by biomedical scientists. They also perform a key role in screening cervical smears, identify viruses and diseases and monitor the effects of medication and other treatments.
Scientists learn to work with computers, sophisticated automated equipment, microscopes and other hi-tech laboratory equipment. They employ a wide range of complex modern techniques.
The successful performance of this key role in modern healthcare relies on the accuracy and efficiency of work by biomedical scientists because patients lives and the treatment of illness depend on their skill and knowledge.
EQA technicians work on quality assurance (QA) and external quality assurance (EQA). They work within a laboratory setting measuring different methods of tests and checking specific parameters. Further information about EQA can be obtained from the following website: www.ukneqas.org.uk
Entry and training:
For information on entry requirements and training as a biomedical scientist, please click hereCareer prospects:
In the NHS, there is a structured career path for qualified biomedical scientists. To progress after registration you will usually need a higher degree such as an MSc. This may then qualify you for Fellowship of the Institute of Biomedical Science. Many biomedical scientists take charge of a section within the laboratory or manage a department. You may also become involved in advance scientific work, research or training.Further information
For further information regarding careers in biomedical science, please contact:-Institute of Biomedical Science
12 Coldbath Square
London
EC1R 5HL
Tel: 020 7713 0214
Fax: 020 7436 4946
Email: mail@ibms.org
Website: www.ibms.org
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