Biomedical science involves the diagnosing of illnesses and the evaluation of treatments using patient samples, and is essential to the treatment and recovery of patients as the results are used as a basis for further treatment by physicians
Graduates with no previous experience can be taken on as trainee biomedical science employees, provided their degrees are in relevant subjects. Fields within the speciality include laboratory sciences, clinical chemistry, medical microbiology, transfusion science, haematology, immunology and virology. Diseases investigated include cancer, HIV/AIDS, anaemia, hepatitis, diabetes and meningitis.
Many of the tests carried out on a daily basis involve complex investigation and are demanding and challenging, requiring extensive investigatory and IT skills plus a great deal of patience. Experience of or training in modern hi-tech diagnostic equipment is important and communications skills are essential for delivering results to medical staff. Graduate trainees in this job need to spend time updating themselves on new developments and in developing their laboratory skills.
Previous work experience in a related field is an advantage, although post-graduate qualifications are not a requirement for trainees. Graduate trainees should expect a salary of around £20,000 per annum at entry level, with senior level managerial salaries running up to £65,000.