A biomedical engineer uses his or her knowledge of biology, medicine, technology, and mechanical engineering to research and develop new medical equipment. He or she could develop new prosthetic devices, artificial organs, or metal hip, shoulder, and knee replacements. A biomedical engineer can also help to improve the safety and efficiency of hospital equipment like MRI and x-ray machines.
Many biomedical engineers work for medical research and development organizations, where they study current medical technology and consider ways to improve it. An engineer may spend months learning about the intricate parts and processes of a specific instrument, such as an MRI machine. He or she then devises a strategy for improving the machine’s safety, effectiveness, and ease of use. A biomedical engineer might design a prototype device after drawing up plans for a new machine with a team of technicians. The prototype can be marketed and implemented in medical facilities once it has been proven effective in several laboratory and clinical trials.
Complex prosthetic organs and limbs, as well as braces, wheelchairs, and support systems, have all been made possible by advances in medical technology. A biomedical engineer considers the most common problems that patients face, such as heart problems, and builds instruments to help them avoid or overcome them. Years of biomedical research, for example, went into developing the artificial heart. It is now used all over the world to assist people with life-threatening heart conditions.
A bachelor’s degree in engineering is usually required to work as a biomedical engineer, though many research and development institutions prefer scientists who have earned master’s or doctoral degrees. Mechanical engineering is the most common undergraduate major, but students often take multiple classes in biology, chemistry, and medicine to supplement their engineering courses. Many graduates work as interns at research facilities, where they learn firsthand how new devices are developed and implemented. To conduct independent research and develop new products, some states and countries require new engineers to pass a licensing examination.
Experienced biological engineers are in high demand because they can apply cutting-edge technology and principles to the development of safe and effective medical devices. The growing number of elderly people and injured war veterans necessitates the immediate acquisition of new equipment, such as prosthetic devices and wheelchairs. By providing people with the most up-to-date medical technology, skilled biomedical engineers ensure that they can live as comfortably and independently as possible.