Biomedical Engineer

Answer 1

The field of Biomedical Engineering combines the fundamentals of engineering with advances in medical technology. It covers a broad range of skills and specialties, but typically involves research and development in areas such as prostheses, diagnostic instrumentation, implants and regenerative tissue growth. There is also a need for biomedical engineers in the biopharmaceutical industry. Biomedical engineers work to solve today’s medical challenges. With the exponential advances in medical technology, opportunities are plentiful for an engineering professional with the right training to capitalize on this growth field. It is estimated by the Bureau of Labor statistics that biomedical engineers will see a 21% growth through 2016. This is being driven primarily by the progressive demand for complex medical devices and implants. Some of the industries that a biomedical engineer can enter include pharmaceutical/biopharmaceutical, genetic engineering, medical imaging and medical devices.

Until recently, a person possessing this skill set would have had an overlap of engineering and medical training. However, most schools with engineering programs and/or science programs now offer degrees specifically in biomedical engineering. At the right school, a student can find programs ranging from undergraduate to Doctorate level in biomedical engineering. It is quickly becoming a popular undergraduate choice for pre-medical students as well. It is important to note that advanced degrees are highly desired, and often required, for positions in this field.

Engineering, Biology and medicine are inherently difficult areas of study. The challenges are compounded when the three knowledge bases are integrated. The compensation for biomedical engineers reflects the effort required to successfully complete such a program. On average, those entering the field with a Bachelor’s degree can expect a starting salary around $53,000/year. Professionals with a Master’s degree start at about $67,000 and Ph.D.s begin in the area of $77,000. The mean salary for the field in 2007 was approximately $80,000/year. That average was slightly higher in medical equipment and supplies manufacturing at about $82,000 and the highest mean of $93,000 was in scientific R&D.

This exciting field has a lot to offer the motivated individual and should see a great deal of growth in the years to come.