Biofabrication and Bioengineering
QMI’s Gateway to Industry Schools Program recently hosted a webinar aimed at inspiring students and educators to consider a career in manufacturing. Titled “Exploring Career Pathways in Biofabrication and Bioengineering,” the webinar featured insights from the Herston Biofabrication Institute (HBI).
The webinar provided attendees with an overview of what it’s like to work in the field of biofabrication and bioengineering. The focus was on innovative technologies that are revolutionising healthcare, including 3D printing and other advanced manufacturing techniques that create patient-specific anatomical models. It’s an exciting field that helps with surgical planning and can develop realistic training tools for medical professionals as well as biomaterials for tissue engineering.
Key Themes and Takeaways
One of the major themes explored during the webinar was the importance of transferable skills in the field of biofabrication and bioengineering. Successful professionals in this industry, regardless of their academic background, possess a strong foundation in problem-solving, critical thinking, communication, and adaptability.
In addition to discussing career pathways and skills development, the webinar also highlighted the growing demand for skilled professionals in biofabrication and bioengineering. As the industry continues to expand, there will be ample opportunities for individuals with the right qualifications and experience. The speakers encouraged attendees to explore various educational pathways available, including undergraduate and graduate programs, as well as apprenticeship and internship opportunities.
Overall, the webinar was a great success, providing attendees with valuable information and inspiration. By raising awareness of the exciting career possibilities in biofabrication and bioengineering, the event aimed to bridge the gap between education and industry, and to ensure a sustainable pipeline of talent for this rapidly growing field.
Session Highlights: Revolutionising Healthcare with Biofabrication
The webinar showcased the transformative potential of biofabrication technology in addressing critical healthcare challenges. Key highlights included:
Personalised Medicine: The use of 3D printing to create patient-specific anatomical models for surgical planning, enabling more precise and efficient procedures.
Advanced Manufacturing Techniques: The application of Stratasys J750 material jetting 3D printing to producing anatomical models, demonstrating the versatility and precision of this technology.
Industrial Design Integration: The collaboration between bioengineers and industrial designers to ensure the functional and aesthetic appeal of biofabricated products.
Surgical Training Innovation: The development of realistic surgical training models, such as the External Ventricular Brain Trainer and laparoscopic training models, to enhance the skills of medical professionals.
Material Science Advancements: The exploration of new materials and their potential to improve the performance and biocompatibility of biofabricated products.
Career Pathways in Biofabrication and Bioengineering
The field of biofabrication and bioengineering offers a diverse range of career pathways, catering to individuals with various interests and skill sets. Some of the most common career options include:
Biomedical Engineers: Design and develop medical devices and technologies, such as 3D-printed implants and tissue scaffolds.
Biomaterials Scientists: Research and develop new materials for use in biofabrication, focusing on properties like biocompatibility, degradability, and mechanical strength.
Industrial Designers: Collaborate with engineers and scientists to design functional and aesthetically pleasing biofabricated products.
Surgical Technicians: Assist surgeons in procedures involving biofabricated components, such as implants and prosthetics.
Research Scientists: Conduct research to advance the field of biofabrication, exploring new applications and techniques.
Regulatory Affairs Specialists: Ensure that biofabricated products comply with regulatory standards and guidelines.
Entrepreneurs: Start their own businesses to commercialise biofabrication technologies and products.
These are just a few examples of the many career opportunities available in biofabrication and bioengineering. The field is rapidly evolving, and new roles and responsibilities are emerging all the time. With the right skills and knowledge, individuals can find fulfilling and rewarding careers in this exciting and dynamic industry.
Feedback from the webinar highlighted the value of showcasing transferable skills within the biofabrication and bioengineering fields. One participant from St. Mary's College Maryborough noted, "Sometimes when you talk to students about these higher-end qualifications, it is hard for them to relate and see themselves entering into particular areas because they feel they have not done what they think is needed to get there. This showed them that skills are very transferable. Well done."
