Become aNanomedical Engineer

Becoming a Nanomedical Engineer means you are at the forefront of developing groundbreaking medical technologies. It’s a career that allows you to solve everyday health challenges, contribute to life saving innovations, and work in a field that will continue to grow and evolve. Plus, it’s incredibly rewarding to see your creations make a tangible difference in improving patient outcomes.

A Nanomedical Engineer applies the principles of nanotechnology to the medical field. This includes designing diagnostic devices, creating new types of treatments, and even developing materials to help regenerate damaged tissues. You could be working on projects that involve anything from making tiny sensors for monitoring body functions to designing nanoparticles that deliver drugs precisely where they’re needed.

As a Nanomedical Engineer, you will work at the microscopic level to design and create medical devices and treatments that improve patients’ lives. Imagine being able to target cancer cells individually without affecting healthy cells or engineering tiny robots that can repair tissues inside the body. This career is not just about understanding medicine and engineering, but revolutionising them.

Nanomedical engineers design different nanoparticles for particular purposes. They may also create personalised nanomedicine treatments for individual patients. As nanoparticles are very small, nanomedical engineers must be comfortable working in labs with very high-powered microscopes.

Nanomedical Engineers have the flexibility to work across various industries where technology meets healthcare. Here are some exciting sectors where you can make a difference:

Pharmaceuticals

Developing nanotechnology-enhanced drugs.

Biotechnology

Creating applications for diagnostics or regenerative medicine.

Medical Device Manufacturing

Designing smaller, more efficient medical devices.

Research Institutions

Conducting groundbreaking research in nanomedicine.

Public Health

Developing new solutions for disease prevention and surveillance.

Cosmetics

Enhancing products with nanotechnology for better delivery of benefits

To thrive as a Nanomedical Engineer, you’ll need a specific set of STEM skills that help you innovate and succeed in this advanced field.

• Analytical
• Creativity
• Problem Solving
• Technical writing
• Teamwork
• Attention to detail

To gear up for a career in nanomedicine, focusing on certain STEM subjects during your studies can give you a head start.

Biology

Understand the basics of life and human physiology.

Chemistry

Essential for drug formulation and material science.

Physics

Helps in understanding nanoscale forces and effects.

Mathematics

Critical for data analysis and model predictions.

Computer Science

Useful for designing simulations and programming nanomachines.

Engineering

Provides a foundation for creating and manipulating medical devices.

Imagine using tiny robots to perform surgeries inside the human body or designing particles that can hunt down and kill cancer cells without harming any healthy tissue. Nanomedical Engineers also work on creating ‘smart pills’ that can diagnose and treat diseases from inside the body!

Designing Nano-Devices for Drug Delivery

Create tiny machines that deliver medicine directly to affected cells, enhancing treatment effectiveness and minimising side effects.

Collaborating with Biologists and Chemists

Work alongside scientists from various fields to develop new nano-materials that can be used in medical implants and devices.

Developing Nano-Sensors for Diagnostics

Design advanced sensors that can detect diseases at the molecular level, leading to early diagnosis and better patient outcomes.

Testing Nano-Robots in Simulated Environments

Conduct trials of nanorobots in virtual environments to ensure they perform tasks like repairing tissues or targeting cancer cells.

Exploring Nano-Materials for Regenerative Medicine

Research materials that can mimic human tissues to create artificial organs or repair damaged ones.

Writing Research Papers and Patents

Document new discoveries, publish research, and protect innovations with patents to contribute to the advancement of nanomedicine.

While specific individuals famous solely as “Nanomedical Engineers” may not be widespread, many Australians have made significant contributions to fields closely related to nanomedicine. 

Professor Maria Kavallaris

A leader in nanomedicine research at the Australian Centre for NanoMedicine at UNSW Sydney, she focuses on developing nanoparticle-based treatments for cancer.

Dr. Wojciech Chrzanowski

Based at The University of Sydney, she leads projects on nanomaterials and their applications in drug delivery and tissue engineering.

Dr. Jane Fitzpatrick

A researcher at Monash University, she works on innovative nano-therapies to improve the diagnosis and treatment of diseases like osteoporosis.

Professor Sally McArthur

A prominent engineer at Swinburne University of Technology, who explores biomaterials and their application in medical devices, including those at the nanoscale.

To excel as a Nanomedical Engineer, it’s not just about the skills you learn – it’s also about the kind of person you are.

• Creative
• Inquisitive
• Patient
• Resilient
• Ethical
• Visionary

A University degree is a great platform to revolutionising healthcare at the nanoscale, here are some you could consider:

• Bachelor of Biomedical Engineering
• Bachelor of Nanotechnology
• Bachelor of Science in Materials Science
• Bachelor of Chemical Engineering
• Master of Science in Nanomedicine
• PhD in Nanoscience or Nanoengineering

Now let’s get into the nano-details:

Bachelor of Biomedical Engineering or Nanotechnology

Universities like The University of Western Australia (UWA) offer courses that cover both nanotechnology and biomedical applications, providing a strong foundation in nanoscience and medical engineering principles.

Bachelor of Science (Biochemistry, Chemistry, or Physics)

A degree in a core scientific discipline, available at institutions such as The University of Melbourne, is essential for understanding the basics of nanoscience.

Master’s in Nanotechnology or Biomedical Engineering

Pursue advanced studies in nanomedicine at The University of Sydney or The University of Queensland to specialise in nano-based medical applications, including drug delivery systems and diagnostics.

PhD in Nanomedicine or Nanotechnology

Engage in emerging research at universities like Monash University or UNSW Sydney, contributing to advancements in nano-drug delivery, diagnostics, and tissue engineering.

Fellowships in Nanomedicine Research

Collaborate with leading researchers through fellowships at institutions like Swinburne University of Technology or The Australian National University (ANU), where you can work on innovative projects.

Have a few interests? Or want to know how to expand your career options? 

Explore Multiple Fields

As a Nanomedical Engineer, you aren’t just limited to one subject! This field thrives on the crossover between disciplines. By studying a combination of biology, physics, and engineering, you can develop a broad range of skills and knowledge that are crucial in nanomedicine. This might mean double majoring or choosing a degree that covers multiple aspects, like a Bachelor of Science in both Chemistry and Biology.

Extra Learning or Microcredentials

Alongside your degree, consider additional courses or certifications in specific tools and technologies used in nanotechnology. This could include software for designing nanoparticles or techniques in microscopic imaging. Universities often offer short courses or modules in these specialised areas, enhancing your expertise and making you stand out in the job market.

Practical Experience

Theory in the classroom is important, but nothing beats real world experience. Look for degree programs that offer placements, internships, or cooperative education opportunities. These experiences allow you to apply your knowledge in actual settings, work with seasoned professionals, and get a feel for what a career in nanomedicine really involves.

Throughout your studies to become a Nanomedical Engineer, you will learn how to apply the principles of engineering, biology, and nanotechnology to solve medical problems. This includes designing devices that can be used inside the human body, creating new materials that mimic biological tissues, or even developing nanoparticles that deliver drugs directly to diseased cells. Your courses will cover a range of exciting topics, from the basics of cellular biology to the intricacies of nanofabrication techniques.

Gaining work experience is key in the nanomedical field. Whether it’s through internships, part time jobs, or cooperative education during your degree, these experiences provide real experience of nanotechnology applications in healthcare. 

You might find yourself working in a lab, testing new drug delivery mechanisms, or in a tech company, developing new diagnostic tools. Each experience will build your skills and confidence in this innovative field.

Placements at Medical Technology Companies

Work with companies like CSIRO or Cochlear to gain practical experience in developing nano-scale medical technologies.

Not everyone takes the university route, and in the world of nanotechnology, there are other pathways to consider:

Microlearning Platforms

Online platforms offer courses in nanotechnology, biomedical engineering, and related fields. These can provide foundational knowledge and skills that can be built upon with more advanced studies or specific job training.

Training Programs or Direct Employment

Some companies offer training programs that allow you to work and learn at the same time. This could involve working on actual projects under the guidance of experienced engineers and scientists, giving you practical skills and insights into the field. Or you could look for junior roles in companies working in this field, get some practical experience and then use this towards credits to a Uni degree later, if that is what you want. 

This way you can trial the career or understand the industry a little better, before making a full commitment to many years of full time study.

But where could a career in the nanomedical sphere take you?

Western Australia

In Western Australia, opportunities for Nanomedical Engineers are growing, especially in research institutions and biotech firms focused on healthcare innovations. The region’s emphasis on mining and resources also opens doors for engineers to develop new materials using nanotechnology.

Australia

Across Australia, Nanomedical Engineers find roles in diverse sectors including pharmaceuticals, medical device manufacturing, and public health organisations. The country’s strong healthcare system and focus on innovation support a range of opportunities for skilled professionals.

Rest of the World

Globally, the demand for Nanomedical Engineers is expanding. From the high-tech hubs of Silicon Valley to the research centres in Europe, opportunities are abundant. International companies often look for individuals who can bring new ideas and skills to their projects, making this a thrilling field with potential for international career growth.

CONCLUSION

Nanomedical Engineering is more than just a career – it’s a journey into the future of medicine. 

By applying yourself during your STEM subjects, and getting involved within the nanomedical community, could have you starting on this fascinating journey – where science meets technology – and you could change the future of how we approach health and medicine!