Biomedical engineers (BMEs) combine biology and medicine with engineering to improve health care. The earliest achievements in medical engineering were things like crutches and wooden teeth. Today we have pacemakers, CAT scans, artificial organs, and hundreds of other instruments, techniques, and devices to diagnose and treat people who are sick or hurt.
Biomedical engineering is a broad and rapidly expanding field with many areas of specialization. For example, bioinstrumentation engineers design microcomputers for instruments such as CAT scanners, monitors used in surgery, and sensors that measure blood chemistry.
Biomechanics involves the study of motion and the flow of substances in the body. Researchers in this field have developed artificial “spare parts” for the human body, such as hearts, heart valves, kidneys, hips, and joints.
Biomaterials researchers develop the materials used for artificial parts. The materials have to be non-toxic, stable, and strong. They work with living tissue as well as metals, ceramics, and other materials.
Rehabilitation engineers develop technology to expand the capabilities of people with physical impairments. They might design special wheelchairs, communication devices, or customized modifications to the home or job site of a person with disabilities. Rehabilitation engineers often work directly with their clients.
A biomedical engineer can focus either on research or on practical work in a hospital. Those who work in hospitals are called “clinical BMEs.” They oversee the purchase and use of biomedical technology.
Working closely with doctors, nurses, and other staff, clinical BMEs decide what technology is best suited to the hospital’s needs (and its budget). They then teach the other health professionals how to use the technology, and make sure it is properly maintained and working smoothly.
NOC Code: 2148