Biomedical Engineer

Job Profile

The nature of the job is generally stress free, though depending on the project deadlines, the work hours may get stretched. Also, there may be a need to travel out-stations for seminars and conferences. In the coming years, the growth in the career of biomedical engineering is expected to multiply manifolds. Biomedical Engineers can work in biotechnology companies, health departments, hospitals, instrumentation department, maintenance department, the research sector and diagnostic department.

Additionally, candidates can also start their work as consultants in various sectors dealing with biomedical science instruments. . Besides, in testing laboratories, pathology labs, research institutes, college and university laboratories, too they   can work as consultants.

Many candidates also take teaching in universities, institutes and colleges after course completion. Those with a PhD degree can be appointed as scientists, research assistants and associates with institutes.

Salary/Package

The average salary in India will be in the range of RS. 3.5 lakhs per annum but after gaining experience and promotions, the salary reaches up to Rs, 6 lakhs per annum.  The salaries may vary based on experience, skills, roles, location, etc.

Skills required

• Interest in both medical as well as engineering stream
• A sound knowledge of technology and medical science
• Knowledge of designing, computer modelling, software design
• Good communication skills
• Technology-driven
• Sound knowledge of Anatomy and Physiology

Pros and Cons of being a Biomedical Engineer

Pros

• The biomedical industry sector is seeing growth and investment from the government as well as private sectors.
• There is still relatively less competition in the market compared to other engineering streams.
• There is a good scope for candidates who want to work outside India, as demand for biomedical engineers is more there.

Cons

• The industry is in the growing stage and does not have an as diverse scope as other medical and engineering streams.
• There is limited recognition and reach of this course among the masses. More colleges and institutes need to have biomedical engineering courses.

How do I be one

To pursue Biomedical Engineering, candidates can take admission in B.Tech, B.Sc., and B.E. course. To apply for admission, candidates need to be 10+2 passed in the science stream with a minimum of 50% marks from a recognised board.

For admission in MTech and ME, candidates need to graduate in Biomedical Engineering or biotechnology stream with minimum 50% marks from recognised institute or university. Candidates having an MBBS degree can also apply for the post-graduation in biomedical engineering.

For admission in M.Phil and Ph. D, candidates need to be post-graduate in Biomedical Engineering.

There is an entrance exam for admission in biomedical engineering courses. Most of the universities and colleges in India take admission through JEE main in the undergraduate course. Also, state-level exams are conducted for admission within the state colleges and universities. BITS (Birla Institute of Technology), VIT (Vellore Institute of Technology) and other private institutes also hold examinations for admission in engineering courses.

For admission to postgraduate courses, candidates need to have GATE scores.

These are some of the entrance examinations for admission in biomedical engineering:

• Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE)
• JEE Main
• JEE Advanced
• SRMJEEE
• VITEEE
• BITSAT