Why Employers Choose Biomedical Sciences Graduates

It takes intelligence, grit, and imagination to succeed in the complex, specialist scientific discipline of biomedical science. But for those who believe they have the potential to improve and even save others' lives, a degree in biomedical science is as valuable as it is challenging.

So, headlines aside, what actually is biomedical science? Let’s take a look under the microscope – and identify one school offering top-quality education and research in the field.

What is biomedical science?

Biomedical science is the use of biology to create solutions in the field of healthcare. Professionals analyze, adapt, and invent at a cellular level, spending their days among samples of blood, bacteria, and other organic matter. With a strong background in biological science, laboratory work, data analysis, and problem-solving, graduates in biomedical science may pursue careers as anything from biotechnologists to crime scene investigators, environmental engineers, and neuroscientists.

This combination of specific techniques (with exciting names like DNA sequencing and immunofluorescence microscopy imaging) and highly-transferable skills (research methods, problem-solving) means finding work should never be a problem for a graduate in this discipline. Society always needs biomedical science expertise. Sure, it can take a while to reach your dream job title in some competitive roles, but there are plenty of exciting stepping stones and alternatives along the way.

Career paths with a biomedical sciences degree

The job title of biomedical scientist applies to those who work in the laboratory analyzing biological specimens (such as blood, tissues, cells) and lab-grown cultures. A biomedical scientist needs an analytical approach, keen attention to detail, research and problem-solving skills, and the ability to function within a team where communication and collaboration make all the difference. They may work for a national health body, private hospital, pharmaceutical company, research centre or university.

But with this background, you might end up with a title other than ‘biomedical scientist,’ with a career in health policy, toxicology, or even zoology. In fact, one of the advantages of a biomedical science degree is that it includes basic underlying courses (such as microbiology, biochemistry, genetics) that are essential for a wide range of applications.

Other potential jobs include:

• Clinical Scientist
• Forensic Scientist
• Medicinal Chemist
• Microbiologist
• Nanotechnologist

A biomedical science qualification also keeps open the prospect of a move into medicine.

Where to study biomedical science

A subject as delicate as biomedical science requires a precise choice of degree. The Cyprus School of Molecular Medicine (CSMM) is the postgraduate school of the Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics (CING). The CSMM offers world-class programs in biomedical science-related disciplines:

• Medical Genetics
• Molecular Medicine
• Neuroscience
• Biomedical Research

The MSc in Biomedical Research, for example, is a two-year program with a strong laboratory emphasis. Students work shoulder-to-shoulder with top biomedical scientists in CING’s state-of-the-art departments and clinics. Students become versed in the scientific method and master the design of appropriate experiments and scientific data analysis, as well as developing critical thinking skills and gaining life-changing insight into how biomedical science can be applied in the real world.

Study at a leading research center in Cyprus

Graduates with a suitable background (for example, medicine, biology, genetics, neuroscience, biomedicine, chemistry, etc.) are invited to gain hands-on experience and expert knowledge within CSMM's unrivaled research infrastructure. The CSMM has a high staff:student ratio and selects the strongest students who can step straight into learning alongside a faculty of experienced scientists.

The programs are fully accredited in Cyprus, recognized internationally, and further accredited by the Sultanate of Oman, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, and the People's Republic of China. And the school offers scholarships for international students to pursue master’s in Neuroscience, Molecular Medicine, Medical Genetics, and Biomedical Research.

The reputation of the CING & the CSMM, the innovative programs of study, and the combination of research opportunities and taught courses are cited as the top three reasons why students choose to study at the Cyprus School of Molecular Medicine.

Returning to the current pandemic situation, the parent institute of the CSMM, the Cyprus Institute of Neurology & Genetics, was at the frontline of diagnostic testing for COVID-19 in Cyprus, as it was the national reference center as appointed by the Government of the Republic of Cyprus, when the country was first faced with having to deal with the virus. The students of the School state their pride in the Institute and their Academic Faculty, some of whom worked in the Institute’s Molecular Virology Department during the toughest days of the pandemic. The CSMM is very much at the heart of all the action in the biomedical sciences field in Cyprus. The School offers a real life work environment for the next generation of scientists!

Even beyond the perimeter of CSMM, Cyprus is an extraordinary environment in which to study. The Mediterranean climate gilts Cyprus’s gorgeous beaches, mountains, and historic landscapes in golden warmth, so relaxing after a hard day in the lab is never a problem. The cuisine reflects the rich Mediterranean flavours, while the modest cost of living makes it easy to explore the surroundings while managing your study schedule. Also, English is widely spoken.

Join CSMM at its online Advice Days every Wednesday from 24 February 2021 to 31 March 2021 for advice on the most appropriate program for you, information on scholarships, and tips on the application process from its Admissions Officers. Details via email at [email protected] or (+357) 22392840.

If you are serious about using your talent to help people, a biomedical science qualification from the Cyprus School of Molecular Medicine, sign up for more information and dig out your laboratory coat!

Article written in association with Cyprus School of Molecular Medicine (CSMM).