Biomedical engineering is
the application of principles and practices of engineering science to biological
and medical research as well as to healthcare technology. Biomedical engineers
are also referred to as clinical engineers. Typical activities in this
field include the design and development of new instruments and systems
for use in research, patient care and delivery of health services. Invention
and designs by biomedical engineers include, but are not limited to, heart
pacemakers, heart valves, artificial kidneys, surgical lasers, ultrasound,
computer simulation techniques, etc. Biomedical engineers design equipment,
conduct performance testing, set safety standards for equipment, supervise
equipment maintenance and serve as technical advisors. They do planning
and budgeting; coordinate technology and equipment needs with other departments;
prepare specifications and requests for proposals; provide operator training
and supervise others within the department.
Education
The minimum educational requirements
are a bachelors degree in biomedical engineering or engineering with a
specialty in biomedical engineering. With a specialty emphasis, usually
more education is required such as a masters or doctoral degree program.
The nearest school offering a bachelors degree is in Tennessee. A masters
and doctorate degree through the University of Kentucky are the only biomedical
engineering programs offered in Kentucky.
Registration/Certification/Licensure
Biomedical engineers may be
certified by the International Certification Commission for Clinical Engineering
and Biomedical Technology. Voluntary certification is well respected and
when achieved earns the title of Certified Clinical Engineer (CCE).
Salary
$30,000-78,000
Employment Opportunities
Biomedical engineers may work
in hospitals, clinics, research facilities, industry, government agencies,
medical schools, space and undersea programs. Ever changing and increasing
needs of the medical field create growing opportunities for biomedical
engineers.