What is biomedical science?
Biomedical science is the study of how the body works, how disease develops, and how we can diagnose and treat illness. It combines biology and chemistry and plays a vital role in modern healthcare—especially in hospital laboratories.
Every time a doctor or nurse sends off a sample of your blood, tissue, or urine, it’s likely a biomedical scientist who tests and analyses it.
At the heart of healthcare
Biomedical scientists carry out over 1 billion lab tests every year in the UK. Their work supports 75% of all medical diagnoses, despite making up just 5% of the NHS workforce.
Whether it’s helping doctors diagnose a condition, matching blood for a transfusion, or checking if a treatment is working—biomedical scientists are essential at every stage of patient care.
Why choose a career in biomedical science?
Biomedical science is dynamic, fast-paced and always evolving. It offers a chance to use science to help people directly—and to work in cutting-edge labs that are central to modern medicine.
You might enjoy biomedical science if you’re interested in:
- Making a real difference to people’s lives
- Investigating disease and helping diagnose patients
- Working in healthcare with opportunities to grow your career
What do biomedical scientists do?
Biomedical scientists perform crucial tests on patient samples. They:
- Help diagnose cancer, infections, and blood disorders
- Match blood for transfusions
- Monitor chronic illnesses like diabetes or kidney disease
- Support emergency care with fast, accurate test results
- Contribute to public health and infection control
Their work takes place in specialist hospital labs, research centres, blood banks, and more.
How to become a biomedical scientist in the UK
The easiest way to become a biomedical scientist, you need to:
- Complete an IBMS Accredited degree in biomedical science
- Gain relevant laboratory experience
- Register with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC)
Most universities require A-levels (or equivalent) in biology and/or chemistry, and GCSE maths. Check specific university requirements on their websites.
Visit become a biomedical scientist for more information on how to join the profession at the heart of healthcare.
Careers in biomedical science
Most biomedical scientists work in NHS or private hospital labs—but there are many other career paths, including:
- Research and clinical trials
- Education and teaching
- Veterinary diagnostics
- Food and drink safety
- Pharmaceutical development
- Public health and infection control
- The armed forces, voluntary work or global health projects
Biomedical science is also a great foundation for further study in medicine, forensics, or specialist areas like genetics and molecular biology.
Specialising in biomedical science
As you progress, you can train and qualify in a specialist field such as:
Cellular pathology – Examining tissue samples for diseases like cancer
Cytology – Studying cells, especially for cancer screening
Clinical chemistry – Analysing blood and fluids to monitor organ function or drug levels
Haematology – Investigating diseases of the blood like anaemia or leukaemia
Immunology – Studying immune system disorders and responses
Medical microbiology – Identifying bacteria, fungi, and parasites
Virology – Investigating viral infections such as COVID-19 and HIV
Transfusion science – Matching blood for transfusions and managing blood stocks
Biomedical science is constantly evolving—opening new career paths in areas like molecular biology, genomics, and digital pathology.