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Biomedical Science is a healthcare science which is categorised as a ‘Life Science’, and involves Blood Sciences (including Clinical Biochemistry, Haematology, and Immunology), Cellular Sciences (including Cytology, Histology and Reproductive Science), Infection Science (including Clinical Microbiology, Decontamination Science, and Virology), and Transfusion and Transplantation Sciences. It also involves bioinformatics, bioengineering, biotechnology, and laboratory management. While medicine focuses on clinical practice and its implications, biomedicine focuses on laboratory research, and the development of knowledge, interventions, or technology to use in hospitals, healthcare and public health, but also in the commercial and agricultural sectors.

Biomedicine/Biomedical Science Jobs

Biomedical Scientists work in a range of settings across the public and private sectors, including hospital and pathology laboratories, research institutions, government agencies, and biotechnology companies. They work in laboratories and undertake a range of research, testing, analysis, modelling, and development projects. They may conduct experiments, develop products, or provide diagnostic and assessment services for hospitals and health care providers. They have specialised scientific knowledge, technical skills for using and maintaining a range of laboratory equipment, and can accurately measure, record, and interpret results to guide diagnosis, research and development. In the hospital setting, biomedical scientists specialise in infection sciences, blood sciences or cellular sciences. Depending on their specialisation, they may undertake screening for diseases and identify causes (for example bacteria and viruses). They may undertake tests which monitor the effects of medication and other treatments, or they may be responsible for testing blood for transfusion. To pursue a career in Biomedical science, pathways include traineeships, the NHS Practitioner Training Programme (PTP), or completion of a biomedical science degree accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) and approved by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). Biomedical Scientists must be registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), the AHCS and can also register with the IBMS.