Biomedical Science is the study of the human body in health and disease and of the laboratory procedures used to diagnose disease.
The majority of Biomedical Scientists work within hospital Pathology Departments and they may specialise in Biochemistry, Haematology, Microbiology, Virology, Transfusion science, Immunology, Histology or Cytology.
The professional body is The Institute of Biomedical Sciences (see top of page link).

Biomedical Scientists investigate tissue and body fluid samples to diagnose disease and monitor the treatment of patients. From screening cancer to diagnosing HIV, from blood transfusion to food poisoning and infection control, Biomedical Scientists are a vital part of modern healthcare, working in partnership with doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals. 
65% - 70% of all hospital diagnostic information is produced by Pathology Departments.  Doctors treat their patients based on results of the diagnostic investigations carried out by Biomedical Scientists, while departments such as Accident & Emergency and operating theatres rely on Biomedical Scientists for emergency blood transfusions and blood grouping, testing for suspected overdoses, conditions such as leukaemia or patients suspected of having a heart attack.

The work of Biomedical Scientists must be accurate and efficient as patients' lives may depend on their skills. They are continually increasing their knowledge as laboratory techniques develop and research transforms the cutting edge of science and medicine. Scientists learn to work with sophisticated equipment to employ a wide range of complex techniques to perform their roles.

Biomedical science is a continually changing, dynamic profession with diverse long term career prospects including management, research, education, advanced roles and specialised laboratory work. UK Biomedical Scientists are employed in National Health Service and private sector laboratories but also work in other organisations such as the National Blood Authority, Health Protection Agency and Medical Research Council. They are also employed in a variety of roles including the veterinary service, the Health and Safety Executive, university and forensic laboratories, research, pharmaceutical, commerce, Her Majesty's Forces and various government departments.

There are also opportunities for Biomedical Scientists to use their training and skills in healthcare posts and projects around the world. They can be found in voluntary work in developing countries on behalf of international bodies such as the World Health Organisation and the Voluntary Service Overseas.

Biomedical Science represents an opportunity to put scientific knowledge into practical use and perform a key role within medical healthcare that offers career satisfaction for many in the profession. Biomedical scientists learn skills and gain qualifications that can be transferred all over the UK and can be recognised worldwide.
Modern pathology and Biomedical Science laboratory work involves complex and diverse 
investigations that require an in-depth scientific knowledge of anatomy, physiology and pathology. Like many other professions a Biomedical Scientist will need to complete a suitable degree course. University entry qualifications usually include 'A' Level biology and chemistry and GCSE mathematics or equivalent.

Biomedical Science degree courses accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Sciences are designed specifically for the profession.   BSc honours biomedical science degrees are designed to give you basic scientific knowledge and training. Most honours degree courses are full time, with some having a placement year (sandwich course) to gain practical experience of working in a laboratory. Part-time options are also available.Co-terminus degrees co-ordinate and deliver the education and laboratory training for graduation and eligibility for registration (see below) to be simultaneous. Practical training is delivered by placements within local laboratories as part of the degree. Other honours degrees which include one or more of the following principal subjects may also be accepted for entry to the profession: animal physiology, biochemistry, biology, chemistry, microbiology, physics and zoology. Partially acceptable honours science degrees may be 'topped up' with an Institute accredited postgraduate certificate or diploma (PgC or PgD).