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The Complete Guide To Becoming A Clinical Scientist

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The Role Of A Clinical Scientist:

Clinical scientists aid the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of illness. The job title is applicable to an extensive range of roles that are grouped into four domains – clinical bioinformatics, life sciences, physical sciences and clinical engineering, and physiological sciences – and subdivided into specialisms.1 Clinical scientists may work exclusively in laboratories or in direct patient contact in clinics and wards.

Clinical bioinformaticians integrate biosciences, mathematics, statistics and computer sciences to support the delivery of patient care by developing and using systems for the acquisition, storage, organisation and analysis of biological data. The three specialisms in clinical bioinformatics are genomics, health informatics and physical sciences.  Genomics is a rapidly developing field in which databases and computing tools are applied to genomics data to determine the best diagnosis and treatment for individual patients.

Clinical bioinformaticians working in genomics may also support the 100,000 Genomes Project which aims to combine genomic data and medical records to study the causes, diagnosis and treatment of disease. Additionally, service development is a component of the job, for example, creating databases, sequencing pipelines and programs for automatic analysis. 

Clinical bioinformaticians working in health informatics use innovative technology to ensure that the use of bioinformatics data in diagnostics and treatment is efficient and conforms to information governance standards.

They also advise on mining, processing and interpreting big data and explain its significance to patients and other healthcare professionals. This role combines expertise in information analysis and computing, and clinical, biomedical or physical sciences. 

Lastly, physical sciences is concerned with designing the appliances, programs and algorithms that are used in bioinformatics. The work may include authorising computer systems for clinical use and creating computer systems for controlling medical equipment, modelling biological processes, investigations or treatment and processing data produced by medical appliances.

There are numerous specialisms in life sciences. Cancer genomics is the study of genetic mutations that result in cancer. Clinical scientists working in cancer genomics analyse DNA to identify the type of cancer to assist in deciding treatment. They also monitor treatment outcomes. Clinical biochemists analyse body fluids, for example, blood and urine, to assist in the diagnosis and management of illness. They also advise doctors on the selection of tests, interpretation of results and additional investigations. 

Developing diagnostic tools and conducting research in cooperation with clinicians are standard activities. Clinical biochemists work in hospital laboratories and, increasingly, in direct patient contact. Clinical scientists working in clinical immunology use complex molecular techniques to study patients’ immune systems to identify the cause of disease. This enables clinical immunologists to assist in the management of allergies, cancers and infectious diseases. This is a growing specialism with potential for career development. 

Clinical microbiologists are engaged in the prevention, diagnosis and management of infectious diseases . They use culturing, sequencing and molecular techniques to identify microorganisms to guide treatment. They are also involved in the development of new tests. Most commonly, the work is performed in hospital laboratories.

However, public health organisations employ clinical microbiologists for infectious disease surveillance roles. Next, cytopathology centres on the examination of cell specimens by light microscope to diagnose disease. This specialism is divided into cervical cytopathology and diagnostic cytopathology. 

Clinical scientists working in cervical cytopathology examine cells from cervical samples to detect changes that could advance to cancer, as part of screening programmes. Diagnostic cytopathology relates to other cancer diagnoses, for example, respiratory tract, lymph nodes and thyroid gland and this role may extend to sample collection. 

Clinical scientists working in genomics examine DNA to identify differences that cause hereditary and acquired genetic conditions. This comprises prenatal diagnosis, carrier testing, predicting the likelihood of genetic conditions being passed onto children and confirmation of diagnosis. 

A related specialism is genomic counselling. Genomic counsellors aid the prediction, screening, diagnosis and management of genetic conditions by analysing family history and organising and interpreting genetic and genomic investigations to provide patients and families with information regarding the impact of their condition on daily life, health and family. They also predict the likelihood of inheriting or passing on genetic conditions and counsel patients regarding adjusting to their condition and making decisions relating to it, with consideration of ethical, cultural and linguistic diversity. This expertise is now central to multidisciplinary teams working in, for example, oncology , neurology and reproductive medicine . 

Clinical scientists working in haematology and transfusion science aid the diagnosis and management of disorders of the blood and bone marrow, for example, anaemia, leukaemia and haemophilia. They are also involved in organising blood transfusions, including determining blood group status. Histocompatibility and immunogenetics is concerned with supporting stem cell and organ transplantation by tissue typing donors and recipients to assess compatibility, which minimises the risk of immune damage and rejection. Histocompatibility and immunogenetics laboratories keep records of potential donors and recipients and are responsible for the collection, processing, storage and distribution of cells and tissues. 

An additional role is assistance in disease diagnosis and management by testing for genes involved in immune function. Clinical scientists working in histocompatibility and immunogenetics are based in hospitals or organisations, for example, NHS Blood and Transplant and Anthony Nolan Trust.

Histopathologists dissect and prepare – using staining, molecular and immunological techniques – tissue samples for microscopic examination by clinicians. Finally, reproductive science and andrology focuses on the management of infertility. Clinical scientists working in this specialism are involved in fertility treatments, for example, in vitro fertilisation and intracytoplasmic sperm injection and subsequent embryo transfer.

They also perform cryopreservation techniques. Specifically, andrology relates to male reproduction.  

The third domain of clinical science is physical sciences and clinical engineering. Firstly, clinical scientists working in clinical measurement design, build and maintain medical appliances – for example, laser devices, joint replacements, electronic aids and tools for laparoscopic surgery – for diagnosis, management and rehabilitation.

They also perform quality assurance checks on hospital equipment. Some clinical scientists working in clinical measurement conduct research into, for example, body mechanics. 

Clinical pharmaceutical science is concerned with the manufacture and provision of radioactive materials used in medical imaging and treatment, for example, cancer therapies. Clinical pharmaceutical scientists also ensure that medicines are safe to use and are prepared and dispensed in an aseptic environment. Additionally, they design protocols for the manufacture of new medicines.

Clinical scientists working in device risk management and governance check that medical equipment is working safely and effectively. They are engaged in all aspects of equipment maintenance including testing prior to introduction to practice, advising on safe use and disposing safely. Some professionals in device risk management and governance may also contribute to designing equipment. 

Clinical scientists work in imaging with ionising radiation aid and advise clinical staff on generating quality images while complying with guidelines for minimising radiation exposure for patients and healthcare professionals and safely disposing of radioactive substances.

They also conduct quality assurance and safety checks on imaging equipment and develop image analysis programs. Modalities utilised in this specialism include x-ray, computed tomography and positron emission tomography. 

Clinical scientists working in imaging with ionising radiation may also perform procedures other than imaging, for example, measuring glomerular filtration rate – an evaluation of kidney function – and administering radioiodine – a treatment for hyperthyroidism. Imaging systems that do not involve ionising radiation, for example, magnetic resonance imaging, ultrasound and optical imaging are the remit of clinical scientists working in imaging with non-ionising radiation. They advise on safety, perform quality assurance checks and develop image analysis software.

They may also be involved in therapeutic procedures, for example, laser surgery and ultraviolet treatments. A similar discipline is radiation safety physics that is engaged in ensuring that diagnostic and therapeutic equipment that uses radiation is safe for patient and staff use. 

Additionally, they calculate radiation doses received by patients and staff during procedures, check that equipment is functioning in accordance with guidelines and design and implement policy relating to the use of radiation and radioactive substances. 

Clinical scientists working in radiotherapy physics ensure the safety and precision of radiotherapy treatment. This is achieved by calibrating equipment and performing complex calculations to design treatment regimens that are therapeutic, in that tumours are treated, but limit damage to surrounding tissues. Clinical scientists working in reconstructive science provide corrective treatment in the form of prosthetic reconstruction and therapeutic management, particularly of the face, jaw and skull, that is required as a consequence of congenital malformation, diseases such as cancer, or trauma.

They meet patients to understand their requirements, explain treatment plans and take impressions. Subsequently, they design and build devices, for example, prostheses, therapeutic splints and titanium skull plates and monitor performance at follow-up appointments. Additionally, they may be consulted in emergency settings, for example, to construct splints required for operations for trauma patients.

Lastly, rehabilitation engineering specialises in assessing the needs of people with disabilities and designing, building, testing and prescribing assistive devices corresponding to those needs. The assistive devices may be standard, or custom made. Examples comprise wheelchairs, artificial limbs, electronic communicators and devices for surgical correction of deformities. 

The final domain is physiological sciences. Clinical scientists working in this domain use innovative modalities to investigate the functioning of body systems, detect abnormalities and guide management.  Physiological sciences encompass diverse specialisms. Audiology is an evolving discipline that is engaged in the assessment of hearing and balance and subsequent provision of therapeutic services. 

Clinical scientists working in audiology design and perform diagnostic procedures and interpret the results generated. They devise care plans for patients with hearing or balance disorders. Additionally, counselling and rehabilitation of patients with impaired hearing is a key role. 

Clinical scientists working in cardiac science conduct, and interpret the results of, diagnostic and monitoring procedures – for example, electrocardiography, echocardiography and exercise stress testing – for patients with cardiac pathologies. They also have supporting roles in interventional procedures, for example, pacemaker implantation. Critical care science utilises competencies in physiology and technology relevant to the care of patients with life-threatening illnesses.

Key responsibilities comprise advising other members of the multidisciplinary team caring for critically ill patients on the use of diagnostic, therapeutic, monitoring and life-support equipment, troubleshooting problems with medical devices, for example, ventilators, renal replacement equipment and physiological measurement monitors, running satellite laboratories that perform tests, for example, blood gases and electrolytes at the point of care instead of in centralised laboratories, establishing a renal replacement therapy service and maintaining electronic patient databases. On-call work, including emergency call-outs, is an aspect of this job. 

Clinical scientists working in gastrointestinal physiology measure function of the organs of the digestive system to aid diagnosis and formulation of a treatment plan. This comprises assessment of, for example, pressure, pH and tone. Gastrointestinal physiologists may also perform ultrasound imaging and interventional procedures, for example, percutaneous tibial nerve modulation, which is a treatment for incontinence. Another specialism of physiological sciences is neurophysiology. 

Clinical scientists working in neurophysiology assist in the diagnosis and management of neurological illnesses via assessment of the function of the nervous system. Common modalities utilised are electroencephalography, evoked potentials, electromyography and nerve conduction studies. Work in this discipline is often conducted in intensive care and operating theatre settings.

Ophthalmic and vision sciences relate to the assessment of the structure and function of the optical system to acquire diagnostic and prognostic data that is required by ophthalmologists for the management of disorders of vision and pathologies of the eye and related structures. 

Common activities for clinical scientists working in ophthalmic and vision sciences are measuring visual field and eye pressure, imaging the eye and carrying out electrophysiological investigations of the optical structures. There is scope for research, for example, treatment for genetic diseases and retinal prosthetic implants. 

Clinical scientists working in respiratory and sleep sciences diagnose and treat respiratory illnesses and sleep disorders. In respiratory science, they perform lung function testing and assist in the delivery of care for chronic respiratory disorders, for example, medicines and oxygen. In sleep science, they monitor – via home monitoring or sleep laboratories – and treat patients experiencing poor sleep quality.

Examples of tests performed are cardiopulmonary exercise testing, bronchial challenge testing and blood gas testing. Urodynamics is concerned with the diagnosis and treatment of urinary diseases. Clinical scientists of this specialism utilise an array of appliances to measure parameters, for example, pressure, flow and muscle activity and interpret the results to construct reports.

Lastly, clinical scientists working in vascular science use ultrasound imaging and other non-invasive techniques to evaluate blood flow. Most often, they work with inpatients and outpatients in dedicated hospital departments. Results of the procedures performed are interpreted to write reports.

Typically, clinical scientists work 37.5 hours per week.2 This may comprise a shift pattern. The work is conducted in multidisciplinary teams that are constituted by a variety of healthcare professionals and vary by specialism. In many positions held by clinical scientists, there is vast potential for teaching, management and, particularly, research. 

The Route To Clinical Science:

The initial step in the route to becoming a clinical scientist is successful completion of an undergraduate honours degree or integrated master’s degree in a pure or applied science discipline that is relevant to the clinical science specialism that the trainee intends to pursue. A 1.1 or 2.1 degree must be achieved.3 Alternatively, if the trainee possesses a 2.2 honours degree, they are eligible to apply if they also have a higher degree in a relevant discipline. 

Subsequently, trainees apply for the Scientist Training Programme (STP), which has a duration of three years. The competition ratios for the various specialisms are listed in Table 1.4 The STP curriculum is composed of core, rotational and specialty modules, each of which features academic and work-based learning.4 The work-based learning is achieved by employment in an NHS department or, occasionally, by an NHS private partner or private company.  This element of the programme is assessed by eportfolio evidence. The academic component of the programme comprises a part-time master’s degree – MSc in Clinical Science – which is fully funded.  The master’s programme is 180 credit hours, 70 of which are allocated to a research project. 

Table 1: Competition ratios for STP specialisms.

Work-based learning, during the first year of the programme, features an induction, mandatory training, core modules and several rotational placements.5 At university, introductory modules that cover broad topics from the trainee’s chosen theme – life sciences, physiological sciences, physical sciences and clinical engineering or bioinformatics – are completed.

The first set of MSc examinations are taken at the end of the first year. There is greater emphasis on the trainee’s chosen specialism in the second year. The research project is started and there is another set of degree examinations. In the middle of second year, trainees are required to pass the midterm review of progression.

Finally, during the third year, the final MSc examinations are attempted and there is a work-based elective placement. The programme is concluded by the Objective Structured Final Assessment (OSFA).5 Successful completion of the OSFA, eportfolio and master’s degree result in trainees being awarded a Certificate of Completion for the Scientist Training Programme (CCSTP).6 Trainees then apply to the Academy for Healthcare Science (AHCS) for a Certificate of Equivalence or a Certificate of Attainment. Subsequently, they are eligible to apply to the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) for registration as a Clinical Scientist.6

A further programme, termed the Higher Specialist Scientist Training (HSST), has a duration of five years and allows some clinical scientists to progress to consultant level. It results in the attainment of a doctorate degree.

Earnings for NHS jobs are classified by pay scales. Trainee clinical scientists are appointed at band 6, at which the starting salary is £31,365.7 The salary increases in accordance with number of years of experience.

Qualified clinical scientists progress to band 7, at which the starting salary is £38,890.7 This also increases over time to a maximum of £44,503 for eight or more years of service. As further experience and qualifications are obtained, it is possible to apply for positions up to band 9 on the pay scale. 

For more information on doctor's salaries within the NHS, please feel free to review  The Complete Guide to NHS Pay .

Related Job Sources With BMJ Careers

• Hospital Jobs
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Other Complete Guides By BMJ Careers

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NHS Scientist Training Programme - 2020 recruitment [Internet]. Health Careers. [cited 8 November 2020]. Available from:  https://www.healthcareers.nhs.uk/news/nhs-scientist-training-programme-2020-recruitment 

Audiology [Internet]. Health Careers. [cited 8 November 2020]. Available from:  https://www.healthcareers.nhs.uk/explore-roles/physiological-sciences/audiology 

Entry requirements [Internet]. National School of Healthcare Science. [cited 8 November 2020]. Available from: https://nshcs.hee.nhs.uk/programmes/stp/applicants/entry-requirements/ 

Competition ratios for the Scientist Training Programme (STP) Direct Entry [Internet]. National School of Healthcare Science. [cited 8 November 2020]. Available from: https://nshcs.hee.nhs.uk/programmes/stp/applicants/about-the-scientist-training-programme/ 

Setting the scene [Internet]. National School of Healthcare Science. [cited 8 November 2020]. Available from: https://nshcs.hee.nhs.uk/programmes/stp/trainees/setting-the-scene/ 

Completion of the Scientist Training Programme [Internet]. National School of Healthcare Science. [cited 8 November 2020]. Available from: https://nshcs.hee.nhs.uk/programmes/stp/trainees/completion-of-the-programme/ 

NHS Terms and Conditions (AfC) pay scales - Annual [Internet]. NHS Employers. [cited 8 November 2020]. Available from:  https://www.nhsemployers.org/pay-pensions-and-reward/agenda-for-change/pay-scales/annual

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How To Become A Research Scientist: What To Know

Updated: Feb 29, 2024, 1:40pm

Research is at the center of everything we know and discover, whether it’s food science, engineering, wildlife or the climate. Behind these discoveries, a research scientist conducts experiments, collects data, and shares their findings with the world.

Research and development scientist, or R&D scientist, is a broad career term that encompasses numerous types of scientists, from geologists to historians. Still, every research scientist has the same goal of furthering their field through experimentation and data analysis.

Browse this guide to discover how to become a research scientist and learn about this role, responsibilities and career outlook.

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What Does a Research Scientist Do?

Research scientists design and conduct research projects and experiments to collect and interpret relevant data. Many research scientists work in laboratory settings for universities, private businesses or government agencies.

These professionals are key players in many industries, from healthcare to marine biology . For instance, a chemist may test various materials for future upgrades to a medical device, while a wildlife research scientist might conduct long-term studies on a species’s breeding patterns.

The typical duties of a research scientist, regardless of their industry and position, include:

• Identifying research needs
• Collaborating with other professionals in a project
• Conducting research and experiments
• Writing laboratory reports
• Writing grant proposals
• Analyzing data
• Presenting research to appropriate audiences
• Developing research-related plans or projects

Research scientists may face challenges throughout their careers, like securing research funding or staying updated with policy changes and technologies. Additionally, to become involved in high-level research projects, research scientists usually need a doctoral degree, requiring substantial time and financial commitment.

How To Become a Research Scientist

The path to becoming a research scientist depends on your desired type of work.

For example, if you plan to become a research scientist for a hospital’s oncology department, you’ll likely need a doctoral degree and postdoctoral research experience. However, a product development researcher may only need a bachelor’s or master’s degree.

The following steps outline the general path needed for many research scientist positions.

Earn a Bachelor’s Degree

Research scientists can start by pursuing a bachelor’s degree in a field relevant to the research they want to conduct. For instance, an undergraduate degree in natural resources is helpful to become a wildlife biologist, while a prospective forensic scientist can pursue a degree in forensics.

If you’re undecided about your post-graduate goals, you can pursue a general major like chemistry, biology or physics before choosing a more field-specific master’s or doctoral degree.

Complete a Master’s Degree

Many higher-level research jobs require a master’s degree in a relevant field. Pursuing a master’s degree lets you gain work experience before beginning a doctorate, sets you apart from other doctoral candidates and qualifies you for advanced research positions.

However, you can skip a master’s degree and enter a doctoral program. Many doctoral programs only require a bachelor’s degree for admission, so you could save time and money by choosing that route rather than earning a master’s.

Get a Doctoral Degree

Doctorates require students to hone their research skills while mastering their field of interest, making these degrees the gold standard for research scientists.

A doctorate can take four to six years to complete. Research scientists should opt for the most relevant doctorate for their career path, like clinical research, bioscience or developmental science.

Pursue a Research Fellowship

Some jobs for research scientists require candidates to have experience in their field, making a research fellowship beneficial. In a research fellowship, students execute research projects under the mentorship of an industry expert, often a researcher within the student’s college or university.

Students can sometimes complete a fellowship while pursuing their doctoral degree, but other fellowships are only available to doctoral graduates.

Research Scientist Salary and Job Outlook

Payscale reports the average research scientist earns about $87,800 per year as of February 2024. However, research scientist salaries can vary significantly depending on the field and the scientist’s experience level.

For example, Payscale reports that entry-level research scientists earn about $84,000 annually, but those with 20 or more years of experience average approximately $106,000 as of February 2024.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports salary data for several types of research scientist careers. For example, a geoscientist earns a median wage of about $87,000, while the median wage of a physicist is around $139,000 as of May 2022.

As salaries vary based on research science positions, so does demand. To illustrate, the BLS projects the need for chemists and materials scientists to grow by 6% from 2022 to 2032 but projects medical scientist jobs to increase by 10% in the same timeframe. Both projections demonstrate above-average career growth, however.

Research Scientist Specializations

A research scientist can work in many industries, so it’s crucial to understand your options before beginning your studies. Pinpointing a few areas of interest can help you find the right educational path for your future career.

Research scientists can specialize in life, physical or earth sciences.

Life science researchers like botanists, biologists and geneticists study living things and their environments. Physical research scientists, like chemists and physicists, explore non-living things and their interactions with an environment. Earth science researchers like meteorologists and geologists study Earth and its features.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Becoming a Research Scientist

What degree does a research scientist need.

Research scientist education requirements vary by specialization, but entry-level research positions require at least a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field. Some employers prefer a master’s or doctoral degree, as advanced degrees demonstrate specialized knowledge and research experience.

How do I start a career in scientific research?

Research scientists need at least a bachelor’s degree. Many graduates pursue a master’s or doctoral degree while gaining experience with an entry-level position, internship or fellowship.

Does being a research scientist pay well?

Research scientist careers generally pay well; some specializations pay more than others. For example, the BLS reports a median salary of about $67,000 for zoologists and wildlife biologists as of May 2022, but physicists and astronomers earn just over $139,000 annually.

How many years does it take to become a research scientist?

It can take up to 10 years to become a doctorate-prepared research scientist, plus another one to five years to complete a postdoctoral fellowship. Entry-level research scientist roles may only require a four-year bachelor’s degree or a master’s degree, which takes one to two years.

Do you need a Ph.D. to be a research scientist?

No, not all research scientists need a Ph.D. Entry-level roles like forensic scientist technicians may only need a bachelor’s degree, and sociologists and economists usually need a master’s. Some research scientist roles, like physicists and medical scientists, require a doctoral degree.

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As a self-proclaimed lifelong learner and former educator, Amy Boyington is passionate about researching and advocating for learners of all ages. For over a decade, Amy has specialized in writing parenting and higher education content that simplifies the process of comparing schools, programs and tuition rates for prospective students and their families. Her work has been featured on several online publications, including Online MBA, Reader’s Digest and BestColleges.

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Prerequisites and Requirements

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Prerequisites and Admission Requirements

Acceptance factors and criteria

The Mayo Clinic M.D.-Ph.D. Program prepares students to translate scientific discoveries into applications that improve patient care. This requires a wide range of skills, aptitudes, and characteristics.

Along with the basic set of prerequisites, the admission committee takes a holistic approach to admissions; meaning, we take into consideration the many factors that make up an applicant. These acceptance factors include:

• Depth and breadth of research experience
• Exposure to and exploration of medicine
• Leadership experience, artistic and athletic endeavors, and work experiences
• Academic performance
• GPA (no minimum GPA requirement; graduate-level coursework and grades are taken into consideration)
• MCAT score/percentile
• Personal statement
• Letters of recommendation

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for education programs without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, or disability status.

After you review the prerequisites and general requirements for admission, learn more about the admissions and application process .

Transfer policy

The Mayo Clinic M.D.-Ph.D. Program does not accept requests for transfer from medical school students either currently or previously enrolled in another medical school program, international or domestic.

The only pathway to matriculation to the Mayo Clinic M.D.-Ph.D. Program is to apply through the American Medical College Application Service (AMCAS).

Prerequisites

Citizenship.

At the time of application, applicants must be a(n):

• Citizen of the United States or lawful permanent resident of the United States
• Noncitizen national of the United States

DACA recipients are also eligible to apply.

Foreign nationals

Regardless of immigration status, foreign nationals who do not fit into the categories listed above are eligible for admission to the Mayo Clinic M.D.-Ph.D. program only if the applicant can present, at the time of application, either:

• Proof of eligibility to file the  Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
• Proof of eligibility for Canadian provincial or federal financial aid support

Undergraduate degree

All applicants must have a bachelor's or Pharm.D. degree from an accredited college or university in the United States or Canada. A higher degree cannot be substituted for this requirement.

Medical College Admission Test (MCAT)

The  Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is required of all applicants. Scores must be posted to the AMCAS application no later than Oct. 1 in order to be considered for the current application cycle. Only MCAT scores reported within three years of matriculation year are considered in admissions decisions.

Grade Point Average (GPA)

There is not a minimum undergraduate GPA requirement for admission to the Mayo Clinic M.D.-Ph.D. Program. All graduate-level coursework and grades are taken into consideration.

Suggested undergraduate coursework

• It is strongly suggested that applicants have completed one year of coursework with demonstrated competence (B average or above) in biology, chemistry, physics, and calculus.
• Additional coursework in biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology, and physiology is encouraged.
• Applicants interested in the Biomedical Engineering and Physiology Track are encouraged to have courses in quantitative science and engineering (such as signal processing, computer science, and instrumentation).

AP and IB credits are accepted if they are included in the undergraduate transcript.

Other admissions requirements

Technical standards (nonacademic criteria).

Matriculating students must meet and maintain the following nonacademic criteria (technical standards) to participate in the Medical Scientist Training Program.

Observation

• Students must be able to attend and meaningfully participate in all classroom, small group, and laboratory exercises in the basic medical sciences.
• Students must be able to assess and comprehend the condition of all patients assigned to them for examination, diagnosis, and treatment.
• Such observation and information acquisition require functional auditory and somatic sensations.

Communication

• Students must be able to communicate effectively and sensitively with patients in order to elicit information, describe changes in mood, activity and posture, and assess nonverbal communications.
• Students must be able to effectively and efficiently transmit information to patients, fellow students, faculty, and staff.
• Students must possess required communication skills including speaking, reading, and writing, as well as the observation skills described above.
• Students must be able to communicate their discoveries in English to the scientific community.
• Students must have sufficient motor function to complete a comprehensive physical examination, carry out diagnostic procedures, provide general care and emergency treatment to patients, and use an electronic medical record.
• Students must have sufficient motor function to perform lab experiments.

Intellectual-conceptual, integrative, and quantitative abilities

• Students must be able to measure, calculate, reason, analyze, and synthesize. 
• Students must be able to comprehend three-dimensional relationships and to understand the spatial relationships of structures.
• Students must have the capacity to perform problem-solving skills in a timely fashion.

Behavioral and social attributes

• Students must be able to fully utilize their intellectual abilities, exercise good judgment, and demonstrate behaviors of professionalism.
• Students must demonstrate mature, sensitive, and effective relationships with patients and others. This includes compassion, integrity, respect, concern for others, commitment, and motivation.
• Students must be able to tolerate taxing workloads, function effectively under stress, adapt to changing environments, display flexibility, and learn to function in the face of uncertainties inherent in the clinical problems of many patients.

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• Medical Scientists: Jobs, Career, Salary and Education Information

Medical Scientists

Career, salary and education information.

What They Do : Medical scientists conduct research aimed at improving overall human health.

Work Environment : Medical scientists work in offices and laboratories. Most work full time.

How to Become One : Medical scientists typically have a Ph.D., usually in biology or a related life science. Some medical scientists get a medical degree instead of, or in addition to, a Ph.D.

Salary : The median annual wage for medical scientists is $95,310.

Job Outlook : Employment of medical scientists is projected to grow 17 percent over the next ten years, much faster than the average for all occupations.

Related Careers : Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of medical scientists with similar occupations.

Following is everything you need to know about a career as a medical scientist with lots of details. As a first step, take a look at some of the following jobs, which are real jobs with real employers. You will be able to see the very real job career requirements for employers who are actively hiring. The link will open in a new tab so that you can come back to this page to continue reading about the career:

Top 3 Medical Scientist Jobs

Community Medical Centers is seeking a Clinical Lab Scientist (CLS) for a job in Fresno, California. Job Description & Requirements * Specialty: Clinical Lab Scientist (CLS) * Discipline: Allied ...

Medical Lab Scientist * Discipline: Allied Health Professional * Start Date: 10/21/2024 * Duration: 13 weeks * 40 hours per week * Shift: 8 hours * Employment Type: Travel A medical laboratory ...

Summit Medical Staffing Allied is seeking a travel Clinical Lab Scientist (CLS) for a travel job in Greenbrae, California. Job Description & Requirements * Specialty: Clinical Lab Scientist (CLS

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What Medical Scientists Do [ About this section ] [ To Top ]

Medical scientists conduct research aimed at improving overall human health. They often use clinical trials and other investigative methods to reach their findings.

Duties of Medical Scientists

Medical scientists typically do the following:

• Design and conduct studies that investigate both human diseases and methods to prevent and treat them
• Prepare and analyze medical samples and data to investigate causes and treatment of toxicity, pathogens, or chronic diseases
• Standardize drug potency, doses, and methods to allow for the mass manufacturing and distribution of drugs and medicinal compounds
• Create and test medical devices
• Develop programs that improve health outcomes, in partnership with health departments, industry personnel, and physicians
• Write research grant proposals and apply for funding from government agencies and private funding sources
• Follow procedures to avoid contamination and maintain safety

Many medical scientists form hypotheses and develop experiments, with little supervision. They often lead teams of technicians and, sometimes, students, who perform support tasks. For example, a medical scientist working in a university laboratory may have undergraduate assistants take measurements and make observations for the scientist's research.

Medical scientists study the causes of diseases and other health problems. For example, a medical scientist who does cancer research might put together a combination of drugs that could slow the cancer's progress. A clinical trial may be done to test the drugs. A medical scientist may work with licensed physicians to test the new combination on patients who are willing to participate in the study.

In a clinical trial, patients agree to help determine if a particular drug, a combination of drugs, or some other medical intervention works. Without knowing which group they are in, patients in a drug-related clinical trial receive either the trial drug or a placebo—a pill or injection that looks like the trial drug but does not actually contain the drug.

Medical scientists analyze the data from all of the patients in the clinical trial, to see how the trial drug performed. They compare the results with those obtained from the control group that took the placebo, and they analyze the attributes of the participants. After they complete their analysis, medical scientists may write about and publish their findings.

Medical scientists do research both to develop new treatments and to try to prevent health problems. For example, they may study the link between smoking and lung cancer or between diet and diabetes.

Medical scientists who work in private industry usually have to research the topics that benefit their company the most, rather than investigate their own interests. Although they may not have the pressure of writing grant proposals to get money for their research, they may have to explain their research plans to nonscientist managers or executives.

Medical scientists usually specialize in an area of research within the broad area of understanding and improving human health. Medical scientists may engage in basic and translational research that seeks to improve the understanding of, or strategies for, improving health. They may also choose to engage in clinical research that studies specific experimental treatments.

Work Environment for Medical Scientists [ About this section ] [ To Top ]

Medical scientists hold about 119,200 jobs. The largest employers of medical scientists are as follows:

Medical scientists usually work in offices and laboratories. They spend most of their time studying data and reports. Medical scientists sometimes work with dangerous biological samples and chemicals, but they take precautions that ensure a safe environment.

Medical Scientist Work Schedules

Most medical scientists work full time.

How to Become a Medical Scientist [ About this section ] [ To Top ]

Get the education you need: Find schools for Medical Scientists near you!

Medical scientists typically have a Ph.D., usually in biology or a related life science. Some medical scientists get a medical degree instead of, or in addition to, a Ph.D.

Education for Medical Scientists

Students planning careers as medical scientists generally pursue a bachelor's degree in biology, chemistry, or a related field. Undergraduate students benefit from taking a broad range of classes, including life sciences, physical sciences, and math. Students also typically take courses that develop communication and writing skills, because they must learn to write grants effectively and publish their research findings.

After students have completed their undergraduate studies, they typically enter Ph.D. programs. Dual-degree programs are available that pair a Ph.D. with a range of specialized medical degrees. A few degree programs that are commonly paired with Ph.D. studies are Medical Doctor (M.D.), Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.), Doctor of Dental Medicine (D.M.D.), Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.), and advanced nursing degrees. Whereas Ph.D. studies focus on research methods, such as project design and data interpretation, students in dual-degree programs learn both the clinical skills needed to be a physician and the research skills needed to be a scientist.

Graduate programs emphasize both laboratory work and original research. These programs offer prospective medical scientists the opportunity to develop their experiments and, sometimes, to supervise undergraduates. Ph.D. programs culminate in a dissertation that the candidate presents before a committee of professors. Students may specialize in a particular field, such as gerontology, neurology, or cancer.

Those who go to medical school spend most of the first 2 years in labs and classrooms, taking courses such as anatomy, biochemistry, physiology, pharmacology, psychology, microbiology, pathology, medical ethics, and medical law. They also learn how to record medical histories, examine patients, and diagnose illnesses. They may be required to participate in residency programs, meeting the same requirements that physicians and surgeons have to fulfill.

Medical scientists often continue their education with postdoctoral work. This provides additional and more independent lab experience, including experience in specific processes and techniques, such as gene splicing. Often, that experience is transferable to other research projects.

Licenses, Certifications, and Registrations for Medical Scientists

Medical scientists primarily conduct research and typically do not need licenses or certifications. However, those who administer drugs or gene therapy or who otherwise practice medicine on patients in clinical trials or a private practice need a license to practice as a physician.

Medical Scientist Training

Medical scientists often begin their careers in temporary postdoctoral research positions or in medical residency. During their postdoctoral appointments, they work with experienced scientists as they continue to learn about their specialties or develop a broader understanding of related areas of research. Graduates of M.D. or D.O. programs may enter a residency program in their specialty of interest. A residency usually takes place in a hospital and varies in duration, generally lasting from 3 to 7 years, depending on the specialty. Some fellowships exist that train medical practitioners in research skills. These may take place before or after residency.

Postdoctoral positions frequently offer the opportunity to publish research findings. A solid record of published research is essential to getting a permanent college or university faculty position.

Work Experience in a Related Occupation for Medical Scientists

Although it is not a requirement for entry, many medical scientists become interested in research after working as a physician or surgeon , or in another medical profession, such as dentist .

Important Qualities for Medical Scientists

Communication skills. Communication is critical, because medical scientists must be able to explain their conclusions. In addition, medical scientists write grant proposals, because grants often are required to fund their research.

Critical-thinking skills. Medical scientists must use their expertise to determine the best method for solving a specific research question.

Data-analysis skills. Medical scientists use statistical techniques, so that they can properly quantify and analyze health research questions.

Decisionmaking skills. Medical scientists must determine what research questions to ask, how best to investigate the questions, and what data will best answer the questions.

Observation skills. Medical scientists conduct experiments that require precise observation of samples and other health-related data. Any mistake could lead to inconclusive or misleading results.

Medical Scientist Salaries [ About this section ] [ More salary/earnings info ] [ To Top ]

The median annual wage for medical scientists is $95,310. The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $50,100, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $166,980.

The median annual wages for medical scientists in the top industries in which they work are as follows:

Job Outlook for Medical Scientists [ About this section ] [ To Top ]

Employment of medical scientists is projected to grow 17 percent over the next ten years, much faster than the average for all occupations.

About 10,000 openings for medical scientists are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

Employment of Medical Scientists

Demand for medical scientists will stem from greater demand for a variety of healthcare services as the population continues to age and rates of chronic disease continue to increase. These scientists will be needed for research into treating diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease and cancer, and problems related to treatment, such as resistance to antibiotics. In addition, medical scientists will continue to be needed for medical research as a growing population travels globally and facilitates the spread of diseases.

The availability of federal funds for medical research grants also may affect opportunities for these scientists.

Careers Related to Medical Scientists [ About this section ] [ To Top ]

Agricultural and food scientists.

Agricultural and food scientists research ways to improve the efficiency and safety of agricultural establishments and products.

Biochemists and Biophysicists

Biochemists and biophysicists study the chemical and physical principles of living things and of biological processes, such as cell development, growth, heredity, and disease.

Epidemiologists

Epidemiologists are public health professionals who investigate patterns and causes of disease and injury in humans. They seek to reduce the risk and occurrence of negative health outcomes through research, community education, and health policy.

Health Educators and Community Health Workers

Health educators teach people about behaviors that promote wellness. They develop and implement strategies to improve the health of individuals and communities. Community health workers collect data and discuss health concerns with members of specific populations or communities.

Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technologists and Technicians

Medical laboratory technologists (commonly known as medical laboratory scientists) and medical laboratory technicians collect samples and perform tests to analyze body fluids, tissue, and other substances.

Microbiologists

Microbiologists study microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, algae, fungi, and some types of parasites. They try to understand how these organisms live, grow, and interact with their environments.

Physicians and Surgeons

Physicians and surgeons diagnose and treat injuries or illnesses. Physicians examine patients; take medical histories; prescribe medications; and order, perform, and interpret diagnostic tests. They counsel patients on diet, hygiene, and preventive healthcare. Surgeons operate on patients to treat injuries, such as broken bones; diseases, such as cancerous tumors; and deformities, such as cleft palates.

Postsecondary Teachers

Postsecondary teachers instruct students in a wide variety of academic and technical subjects beyond the high school level. They may also conduct research and publish scholarly papers and books.

Veterinarians

Veterinarians care for the health of animals and work to improve public health. They diagnose, treat, and research medical conditions and diseases of pets, livestock, and other animals.

More Medical Scientist Information [ About this section ] [ To Top ]

For more information about research specialties and opportunities within specialized fields for medical scientists, visit

American Association for Cancer Research

American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

The American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science

American Society for Clinical Pathology

American Society for Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics

The American Society for Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics

The Gerontological Society of America

Infectious Diseases Society of America

National Institute of General Medical Sciences

Society for Neuroscience

Society of Toxicology

A portion of the information on this page is used by permission of the U.S. Department of Labor.

Explore more careers: View all Careers or the Top 30 Career Profiles

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How to make a career in medical research?

• Career guides

Starting a career in medical research

If you have the intellectual and emotional resilience, also if you wish to contribute to the body of knowledge in medical sciences then you are a right candidate for a career in Medical Research. Devising and conducting experiments, investigating the epidemiological basis of a disease, working in collaboration with a team, ability to question intricate complexities of genome and proteome and effective written and oral communication skills are the chief qualities of an inborn medical researcher. If the following description sounds like you, then you are probably well suited for a career as a medical researcher.

Qualifications to become a medial researcher

The roadmap to medical researcher is complex because it’s a profession that demands distinctive skills and expertise along with mandatory formal education. The simplest formal degree requirement is minimum Masters or a Ph.D. For an outstanding career as a medical researcher, a Ph.D. will help you to go the distance in an academic career. There is right now an extraordinarily extensive overabundance of post-doctoral partnerships battling for an exceptional set number of lasting scholarly positions. Having said that, accomplishing a PhD in a science subject will stand you in great stead for various research positions. You can pursue a career in medical research by obtaining a formal education in either biological sciences or medicine however; medicine can broaden your options. Furthermore, after earning a formal education in either biology or medicine, the next milestone towards the development of a career in medical research is participating in a research-based internship. In most graduate schools, participating in a research internship and undertaking a research project is the part of the exclusively designed curriculum. This opportunity will allow you to get a chance to be mentored by a physician or research scientist where you can work in collaboration with the team on the ongoing research project.

In order to escalate to the position of the medical researcher, it is integral to complete an advanced degree program in either science or medicine. According to the US Bureau Labor Statistics (BLS), postgraduates and graduates with dual undergraduate degrees become successful candidates for the job positions.

After completing your advanced education, as a medical researcher you can start your aspiring and a challenging career with entry-level positions of medical research associate. As an associate, you are required to assist a scientist in devising, planning and conducting research trials. You can add something extraordinary to your resume by earning credentials offered to research professionals by regulatory bodies. Credential based certifications are not only going to prepare you for some verifiable skills needed in the career but will also aid you in advancing your career path to medical research.

The job role

As a medical researcher, it is your utmost responsibility to conduct research to improve the health status and longevity of the population. The career revolves around clinical investigations to understand human diseases and rigorous lab work. As a medical researcher, formal education will not suffice. As a developing medical researcher, you need to have effective communication, critical thinking, decision-making, data collecting, data analysing and observational skills. These skill sets will enable you to create a competitive edge in the research industry.

Your interest in scientific exploration and a desire to provide a breakthrough in medical knowledge will help you to explore and solve some unknown mysteries associated with complex diseases.

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Biomedical scientists use scientific research to improve human health. They design studies to test and develop new treatment plans, analyze medical data to investigate pathogens and chronic diseases, and develop social programs that can improve outcomes in population health. Biomedical science is the science of medicine and to practice it, biomedical scientists need to be highly educated and supremely dedicated.

While the old school way of thinking used to prescribe biomedical scientists a linear pathway through school to positions in academic research, that’s not necessarily still the case. Between 2005 and 2009, some 100,000 doctoral degrees were awarded but only 16,000 new professor positions were created, according to a study published by the National Institutes of Health. But that apparent oversupply isn’t as grim as it looks: data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS 2023) projected a 10 percent increase in jobs for medical scientists nationally from 2022 to 2032.

Working in several sectors ranging from research to academia, biomedical scientists can choose to pursue work in faster-paced fields of industry or university-based laboratories. But everything comes with tradeoffs. Being under the direction of a specific corporate agenda, biomedical scientists who work as industry researchers generally have less intellectual freedom than their academic counterparts but are often paid higher salaries. On the other hand, biomedical scientists who work in academia may have intellectual freedom but can be constrained by grant funding, publication quotas, and teaching requirements.

Some biomedical scientists put themselves in a different category altogether by pursuing a medical degree alongside their research education, opening up the possibility of private practice and physician-related duties. It’s also becoming more common for biomedical scientists to seek employment in nontraditional roles: someone educated as a biomedical scientist may now apply their knowledge in fields like consulting, public policy, and patent law.

On the whole, occupations in biomedical science are growing and there are multiple pathways to pursue this career. The type of education will influence which biomedical science sector a professional will end up in. Read this step-by-step guide to becoming a biomedical scientist to plan for all possible options.

Johns Hopkins University (AAP)

Arizona State University

Step-By-Step Guide to Becoming a Biomedical Scientist

Step 1a: earn a bachelor’s degree (four years).

After graduating from high school, an aspiring biomedical scientist needs to earn a bachelor’s degree. At this stage, practically any major related to the life sciences is suitable: biology, chemistry, or biomedical engineering are all possibilities. Admissions requirements for undergraduate programs vary from school to school but generally include some combination of the following: a competitive high school GPA (3.0 or greater); SAT and/or ACT scores; letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.

Arizona State University offers a BS in biological sciences with a concentration in biomedical sciences. The curriculum is designed for students who wish to pursue either medical school or biomedical research careers in academic, clinical, and industry settings. The program can be completed either online or on-campus.

Core classes cover conceptual approaches to biology; statistics for biosciences; advanced principles of biochemistry; developmental biology; genetics; and organic chemistry. Students may also apply for an accelerated program, which allows them to complete both a BS and MS in five years instead of six. The standard four-year BS program consists of 120 credit-hours.

Upon successfully completing the program, graduates can take up roles such as biological scientists, clinical trial managers, laboratory technologists, molecular biologists, pharmacists, and physician assistants.

• Location: Tempe, AZ
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
• Expected Time to Completion: 48 months
• Estimated Tuition: $994 per credit

University of Iowa

The University of Iowa has a selective and challenging BS in biomedical sciences. As a collaboration between the biochemistry, biology, Immunology, chemistry, and microbiology departments, the program is designed to prepare students for the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT) and biomedical research at the graduate level and beyond.

This program requires a minimum of 120 credit-hours, including at least 77 to 83 credits of work for the biomedical science major. The curriculum covers biology; biochemistry; microbiology; physics; human physiology; psychology; and statistics. Students are also encouraged to participate in the Iowa Center for Research by Undergraduates (ICRU) and to apply for research scholarships.

• Location: Iowa City, Iowa
• Accreditation: The Higher Learning Commission
• Estimated Tuition: Iowa residents ($10,964); non-residents ($32,927)

Step 1b: Gain Early Work and Research Experience (Optional, Timeline Varies)

While earning a bachelor’s degree, many aspiring biomedical scientists gain some early work and research experience. While it’s not always a degree requirement, internships and laboratory assistantships can dramatically boost one’s applied skills and one’s academic applications.

Working in a research capacity under the supervision of dedicated biomedical scientists can be a rich education in and of itself and it can also help direct one’s education towards a specific niche of biomedical science.

Step 2: Earn a Master’s Degree (Optional, One to Three Years)

After earning their bachelor’s degree, some aspiring biomedical scientists opt to earn a master’s degree. While it’s not a requirement to practice biomedical science, a master’s degree can allow graduates to sharpen their expertise and enhance their applications for PhD or dual-degree programs. Furthermore, it’s possible at this stage to pair one’s master’s degree with a master’s in another field (e.g., public health, business administration) to widen one’s career options down the road.

Admissions requirements for biomedical science master’s programs vary from school to school but generally include some combination of the following: a competitive undergraduate GPA (3.0 or greater); MCAT and/or GRE scores; letters of recommendation; work and/or research experience; and a personal statement.

Tufts University

Tufts University offers a master’s of science in biomedical science (MBS) for pre-professional students who are looking to strengthen their academic credentials before applying to MD and PhD programs. The curriculum closely follows that of a first-year medical school student, with key courses in the following areas: anatomy, biochemistry, cell biology, medical genetics, microbiology, pathology, and pharmacology.

Tufts also allows students to get a dual degree, pairing the MBS with a master of business administration (MBA) or master of public health (MPH), which can significantly boost one’s competitiveness in tangential roles and sectors post-graduation. The baseline MBS program consists of 30 to 33 credits.

• Location: Boston, MA
• Accreditation: New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC)
• Expected Time to Completion: 12 months
• Estimated Tuition: $58,560 per year

Miller School of Medicine at the University of Miami

The Miller School of Medicine at the University of Miami offers an intensive master of science in biomedical science (MiBS) degree that is designed to be completed in under a year.

The core curriculum covers coursework in areas such as biochemistry for the biosciences; laboratory research or physician shadowing; molecular biology for the biosciences; gross anatomy & histology; advanced molecular and cell biology; cell physiology; and basic pathobiology. Students may also choose to specialize in one of three customized tracks: medicine, research, or drug discovery. Students have access to hands-on faculty advising and mentoring when submitting applications to research placements and further schooling.

To get accepted into the program, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with sufficient undergraduate coursework, transcripts from all previously attended colleges and universities, GRE general exam scores (optional), a statement of purpose, three letters of recommendation, and TOEFL or IELTS scores for international students whose native language is not English.

• Location: Miami, FL
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• Expected Time to Completion: 10 months
• Estimated Tuition: $50,000 per year

Step 3a: Earn a PhD (Four to Seven Years)

After completing their early education, aspiring biomedical scientists can earn a doctoral degree in biomedical science. While some may opt for a dual degree program (see step 3B below), a PhD can prepare graduates for work in academia, research, and industry.

Admissions requirements vary from school to school but generally include some combination of the following: an exemplary academic record (3.3 GPA or greater); GRE scores; letters of recommendation; work and/or research experience; a personal statement; and in-person interviews.

Boston University

The Program in Biomedical Science (PiBS) at Boston University offers students a PhD that can be tailored to their specific research interests. Ten different departments participate in the program: biochemistry; biophysics; genetics and genomics; immunology training; microbiology; molecular and translational medicine; nutrition and metabolism; oral biology; pathology and laboratory medicine; and physiology.

In the first year, students work with a faculty advisor to develop a personalized study plan. In addition to core courses and electives, students attend research seminars and experience three lab rotations. Participation in clinical shadowing and directed research prepares graduates for a career as biomedical scientists. Furthermore, the program provides a host of opportunities for professional development, which can aid one’s introduction into a career pipeline.

As part of the program, students will delve into topics such as protein structure, catalysis, and interaction; architecture and dynamics of the cell; mechanisms of cell communication; techniques in biochemistry, cell, and molecular biology; macromolecular assemblies; comprehensive immunology; and immunological basis of disease.

• Accreditation: Liaison Committee on Medical Education of the Association of American Medical Colleges and the Council on Medical Education of the American Medical Association; New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
• Estimated Tuition: $1,994 per credit-hour

Step 3b: Consider a Dual MD-PhD Degree (Optional, Six to Eight Years)

Some biomedical scientists opt to pair their PhD with a medical doctor (MD) degree. While PhD programs focus primarily on research methods (e.g., project design, data interpretation), dual-degree programs complement that research education with the clinical skills necessary to be a practicing physician. The two skill sets complement each other well in biomedical science.

Requirements for dual-degree programs vary from school to school but often include some combination of the following: an exemplary undergraduate GPA (3.3 or greater), MCAT scores, letters of recommendation, work and/or research experience, a personal statement, and an in-person interview.

Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences at the University of Central Florida

The Burnett School of Biomedical Sciences at the University of Central Florida offers a rigorous, integrated MD-PhD program that allows students to complete the requirements of both degrees simultaneously. Students will take medical courses during their first two years and must pass the first of three United States Medical Licensing Exam (USMLE) exams at the end of year two before beginning full-time graduate studies.

During those first two years, students also must begin working on their PhD research project. While clinical clerkships (typically years three and four of medical school) may be deferred until a student has completed their PhD requirements, some level of ongoing clinical training must continue through the duration of the entire program.

In addition to the MD curriculum, the PhD adds a minimum of 72 credits of study, including core courses, electives, laboratory rotations, and dissertation research. Students with a master’s degree may waive up to 30 credits of this requirement with committee approval.

• Location: Orlando, FL
• Expected Time to Completion: 72 months
• Estimated Tuition: In-state (369.65 per credit); out-of-state (1,194.05 per credit)

Step 4: Consider Postdoctoral Research Experience (Optional, Timeline Varies)

After completing their PhD, many biomedical scientists go into postdoctoral research. Gaining independent experience in running studies and publishing new research areas can be critical in winning tenure-track positions at universities and catapult one into desirable positions in the industrial sphere. In biomedical science, one research question often leads to another, and gaining postdoctoral research can boost one’s credentials.

Biomedical Scientist Certification & Licensure

According to the BLS (2023), medical scientists who primarily conduct research don’t need specific certification or license. However, biomedical scientists who practice medicine, administer drugs or gene therapy, or work in patient clinical trials or physicians’ clinics need a medical license to practice.

While medical licensure requirements vary by state, according to the American Medical Association , all states require physicians to pass the three-step United States Medical Licensing Exam (USMLE). Here are four certification options for biomedical scientists.

The United States Medical Licensing Exam (USMLE) is a three-part examination required for medical licensure in all 50 states. Also known colloquially as “the boards,” all practicing physicians must pass these exams, measuring scientific knowledge, clinical knowledge, and diagnosis and treatment.

Here are some other biomedical science certifications to consider.

North American Board of Naturopathic Examiners (NABNE)

Physicians who choose the naturopathic physician route and prove eligibility can take the Naturopathic Physicians Licensing Examinations (NPLEX) Part I – the Biomedical Science Examination. Students who choose this option must meet biomedical science coursework from an approved naturopathic medical program (ANMP) including anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, genetics, immunology, microbiology, pathology, and required laboratories.

American Medical Technologists (AMT) Certifications

American Medical Technologists (AMT) certifies medical laboratory technicians (MLTs) and offers four distinctive professional pathways for licensure. Aspiring biomedical scientists can earn certification through one of four routes, including an associate’s degree in medical laboratory technology; an alternative education route with two years of clinical laboratory science courses; the completion of a 50-week US military medical laboratory training program; or proof of a similar educational pathway.

Eligibility is confirmed via an online application at which point test-takers can register for the medical laboratory technician (MLT), medical technologist (MT), or another related allied health laboratory exam.

Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) Certifications

The Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS) is an international organization dedicated to advancing knowledge and setting standards in biomedical science. IBMS offers a wealth of certifications for biomedical scientists:

• IBMS Certificate of Competence: This professional qualification demonstrates an individual meets the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC) standards to register as a biomedical scientist.
• Specialist Diploma: Through submitting a portfolio of work as evidence of training, practical skills, specialist knowledge, and competency, early-career biomedical scientists can verify their experience with blood sciences or other biomedical disciplines.
• Higher and expert qualifications: For biomedical scientists who want to advance their careers in management or demonstrate high levels of knowledge and competence, certificates and diplomas of expert practice are available in specialist areas. An online certificate of expert practice is available.
• Advanced qualifications: Designed for senior-level biomedical scientists with PhDs, this certification verifies one’s commensurate experience as a medical consultant in areas of specialization such as cervical cytology, histopathology reporting, ophthalmic pathology, and specimen dissection.

Helpful Resources for Biomedical Scientists

All forms of science rely on iteration, innovation, and collaboration. To listen in on some of the high-level conversations in peer-reviewed biomedical science today, check out some resources below.

• National Association for Biomedical Research (NABR)
• National Institutes of Health (NIH)
• Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS)
• Journal of Biomedical Science
• Biomedical Research

Rachel Drummond has contributed insightful articles to MedicalTechnologySchools.com since 2019, where she offers valuable advice and guidance for those pursuing careers in the healthcare field, combining her passion for education with her understanding of the critical role that healthcare professionals play in promoting physical and mental well-being.

Rachel is a writer, educator, and coach from Oregon. She has a master’s degree in education (MEd) and has over 15 years of experience teaching English, public speaking, and mindfulness to international audiences in the United States, Japan, and Spain. She writes about the mind-body benefits of contemplative movement practices like yoga on her blog , inviting people to prioritize their unique version of well-being and empowering everyone to live healthier and more balanced lives.

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How to become a biomedical scientist

Is becoming a biomedical scientist right for me.

The first step to choosing a career is to make sure you are actually willing to commit to pursuing the career. You don’t want to waste your time doing something you don’t want to do. If you’re new here, you should read about:

Still unsure if becoming a biomedical scientist is the right career path? Take the free CareerExplorer career test to find out if this career is right for you. Perhaps you are well-suited to become a biomedical scientist or another similar career!

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How to become a Biomedical Scientist

Becoming a biomedical scientist typically requires a combination of education, training, and experience. Here are the steps to becoming a biomedical scientist:

• Obtain a Bachelor's Degree: A bachelor's degree in a science-related field such as biology , biochemistry , or microbiology is usually required to become a biomedical scientist. Some programs may offer a specific biomedical sciences degree.
• Gain Research Experience: Biomedical science is a research-intensive field, so gaining experience in a research setting is important. This can be done through undergraduate research programs, internships, or volunteering in a research lab.
• Obtain a Graduate Degree: A master's or doctoral degree is typically required for biomedical scientists who want to conduct independent research or hold advanced positions. A master's degree program can take one to two years to complete, while a doctoral program can take four to seven years.
• Gain Additional Training: After obtaining a graduate degree, biomedical scientists may need to complete additional training or postdoctoral fellowships to gain specialized skills and experience in their area of research.
• Obtain Certifications: Some biomedical scientists may choose to obtain certifications. Certifications demonstrate a high level of knowledge and expertise in a specific area of biomedical science (see below).
• Gain Work Experience: Biomedical scientists can gain work experience through research positions, postdoctoral fellowships, or clinical laboratory positions. This can provide valuable experience and help build a strong professional network.
• Stay Up-To-Date With Advancements: Biomedical science is a constantly evolving field, so it's important for biomedical scientists to stay up-to-date with new research and advancements. This can be done through attending conferences, reading scientific journals, or taking continuing education courses.

Certifications Certifications can demonstrate a high level of knowledge and expertise in a specific area of biomedical science, which can be valuable for career advancement and professional development. Here are some of the most common certifications for biomedical scientists:

• Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) or Medical Technologist (MT): These certifications are offered by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) and demonstrate expertise in clinical laboratory science. To be eligible for the MLS or MT certification exam, candidates must have a bachelor's degree in a relevant field and complete a clinical laboratory science program accredited by the National Accrediting Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS).
• Medical Laboratory Technician (MLT): This certification is also offered by the ASCP and demonstrates expertise in clinical laboratory science at a technician level. To be eligible for the MLT certification exam, candidates must have an associate degree in a relevant field and complete a clinical laboratory science program accredited by NAACLS.
• Diplomate of the American Board of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ABMGG): This certification is offered by the ABMGG and demonstrates expertise in medical genetics. To be eligible for the ABMGG certification exam, candidates must have a doctoral degree in a relevant field and complete a medical genetics residency program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME).
• Certified Research Administrator (CRA): This certification is offered by the Research Administrators Certification Council (RACC) and demonstrates expertise in research administration. To be eligible for the CRA certification exam, candidates must have a bachelor's degree and at least three years of experience in research administration.
• Certified Professional IACUC Administrator (CPIA): This certification is offered by the Public Responsibility in Medicine and Research (PRIM&R) and demonstrates expertise in animal research administration. To be eligible for the CPIA certification exam, candidates must have a bachelor's degree and at least two years of experience in animal research administration.

Helpful Resources There are many helpful resources available for biomedical scientists to support their research, education, and professional development. Here are some examples:

• PubMed: PubMed is a free database of biomedical literature, maintained by the National Library of Medicine. It contains over 32 million citations to articles from biomedical journals, including research articles, reviews, and clinical guidelines.
• The National Institutes of Health (NIH): The NIH is a federal agency that funds biomedical research and provides resources for researchers, including research funding opportunities, training programs, and scientific databases.
• The American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology (ASBMB): The ASBMB is a professional organization for biochemists and molecular biologists, offering resources such as research grants, career development programs, and scientific publications.
• The American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP): The ASCP is a professional organization for laboratory professionals, including medical laboratory scientists and technicians. They offer resources such as certification exams, continuing education programs, and professional networking opportunities.
• The Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology (FASEB): FASEB is a coalition of 28 scientific societies, representing more than 130,000 researchers in the life sciences. They offer resources such as research funding opportunities, advocacy for science policy, and career development programs.
• ResearchGate: ResearchGate is a social networking site for researchers, allowing scientists to connect with each other, share research, and ask and answer questions.
• Biocompare: Biocompare is a resource for researchers to compare and review products, including lab equipment, reagents, and software.

• Create new account

Medical Scientist

Medical scientists conduct research aimed at improving overall human health. They often use clinical trials and other investigative methods to reach their findings.

Medical scientists typically do the following:

• Design and conduct studies to investigate human diseases and methods to prevent and treat diseases
• Prepare and analyze data from medical samples and investigate causes and treatment of toxicity, pathogens, or chronic diseases
• Standardize drugs' potency, doses, and methods of administering to allow for their mass manufacturing and distribution
• Create and test medical devices
• Follow safety procedures, such as decontaminating workspaces
• Write research grant proposals and apply for funding from government agencies, private funding, and other sources
• Write articles for publication and present research findings

Medical scientists form hypotheses and develop experiments. They study the causes of diseases and other health problems in a variety of ways. For example, they may conduct clinical trials, working with licensed physicians to test treatments on patients who have agreed to participate in the study. They analyze data from the trial to evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment.

Some medical scientists choose to write about and publish their findings in scientific journals after completion of the clinical trial. They also may have to present their findings in ways that nonscientist audiences understand.

Medical scientists often lead teams of technicians or students who perform support tasks. For example, a medical scientist may have assistants take measurements and make observations for the scientist’s research.

Medical scientists usually specialize in an area of research, with the goal of understanding and improving human health outcomes. The following are examples of types of medical scientists:

Clinical pharmacologists  research new drug therapies for health problems, such as seizure disorders and Alzheimer’s disease.

Medical pathologists   research the human body and tissues, such as how cancer progresses or how certain issues relate to genetics.

Toxicologists  study the negative impacts of chemicals and pollutants on human health.

Medical scientists conduct research to better understand disease or to develop breakthroughs in treatment. For information about an occupation that tracks and develops methods to prevent the spread of diseases, see the profile on epidemiologists.

Medical scientists held about 119,200 jobs in 2021. The largest employers of medical scientists were as follows:

Medical scientists typically work in offices and laboratories. In the lab, they sometimes work with dangerous biological samples and chemicals. They must take precautions in the lab to ensure safety, such as by wearing protective gloves, knowing the location of safety equipment, and keeping work areas neat.

Work Schedules

Most medical scientists work full time, and some work more than 40 hours per week.

Medical scientists typically have a Ph.D., usually in biology or a related life science. Some get a medical degree instead of, or in addition to, a Ph.D.

Medical scientists typically need a Ph.D. or medical degree. Candidates sometimes qualify for positions with a master’s degree and experience. Applicants to master’s or doctoral programs typically have a bachelor's degree in biology or a related physical science field, such as chemistry.

Ph.D. programs for medical scientists typically focus on research in a particular field, such as immunology, neurology, or cancer. Through laboratory work, Ph.D. students develop experiments related to their research.

Medical degree programs include Medical Doctor (M.D.), Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.), Doctor of Dental Medicine (D.M.D.), Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.), Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.), and advanced nursing degrees. In medical school, students usually spend the first phase of their education in labs and classrooms, taking courses such as anatomy, biochemistry, and medical ethics. During their second phase, medical students typically participate in residency programs.

Some medical scientist training programs offer dual degrees that pair a Ph.D. with a medical degree. Students in dual-degree programs learn both the research skills needed to be a scientist and the clinical skills needed to be a healthcare practitioner.

Licenses, Certifications, and Registrations

Medical scientists primarily conduct research and typically do not need licenses or certifications. However, those who practice medicine, such as by treating patients in clinical trials or in private practice, must be licensed as physicians or other healthcare practitioners.

Medical scientists with a Ph.D. may begin their careers in postdoctoral research positions; those with a medical degree often complete a residency. During postdoctoral appointments, Ph.D.s work with experienced scientists to learn more about their specialty area and improve their research skills. Medical school graduates who enter a residency program in their specialty generally spend several years working in a hospital or doctor’s office.

Medical scientists typically have an interest in the Building, Thinking and Creating interest areas, according to the Holland Code framework. The Building interest area indicates a focus on working with tools and machines, and making or fixing practical things. The Thinking interest area indicates a focus on researching, investigating, and increasing the understanding of natural laws. The Creating interest area indicates a focus on being original and imaginative, and working with artistic media.

If you are not sure whether you have a Building or Thinking or Creating interest which might fit with a career as a medical scientist, you can take a career test to measure your interests.

Medical scientists should also possess the following specific qualities:

Communication skills. Communication is critical, because medical scientists must be able to explain their conclusions. In addition, medical scientists write grant proposals, which are often required to continue their research.

Critical-thinking skills. Medical scientists must use their expertise to determine the best method for solving a specific research question.

Data-analysis skills. Medical scientists use statistical techniques, so that they can properly quantify and analyze health research questions.

Decision-making skills. Medical scientists must use their expertise and experience to determine what research questions to ask, how best to investigate the questions, and what data will best answer the questions.

Observation skills. Medical scientists conduct experiments that require precise observation of samples and other health data. Any mistake could lead to inconclusive or misleading results.

The median annual wage for medical scientists was $95,310 in May 2021. The median wage is the wage at which half the workers in an occupation earned more than that amount and half earned less. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $50,100, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $166,980.

In May 2021, the median annual wages for medical scientists in the top industries in which they worked were as follows:

Employment of medical scientists is projected to grow 17 percent from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations.

About 10,000 openings for medical scientists are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire. 

Demand for medical scientists will stem from greater demand for a variety of healthcare services as the population continues to age and rates of chronic disease continue to increase. These scientists will be needed for research into treating diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease and cancer, and problems related to treatment, such as resistance to antibiotics. In addition, medical scientists will continue to be needed for medical research as a growing population travels globally and facilitates the spread of diseases.

The availability of federal funds for medical research grants also may affect opportunities for these scientists.

For more information about research specialties and opportunities within specialized fields for medical scientists, visit

American Association for Cancer Research

American Physician Scientists Association

American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

The American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science

American Society for Clinical Pathology

American Society for Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics

The American Society for Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics

The Gerontological Society of America

Infectious Diseases Society of America

National Institute of General Medical Sciences

Society for Neuroscience

Society of Toxicology

Where does this information come from?

The career information above is taken from the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook . This excellent resource for occupational data is published by the U.S. Department of Labor every two years. Truity periodically updates our site with information from the BLS database.

I would like to cite this page for a report. Who is the author?

There is no published author for this page. Please use citation guidelines for webpages without an author available. 

I think I have found an error or inaccurate information on this page. Who should I contact?

This information is taken directly from the Occupational Outlook Handbook published by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. Truity does not editorialize the information, including changing information that our readers believe is inaccurate, because we consider the BLS to be the authority on occupational information. However, if you would like to correct a typo or other technical error, you can reach us at [email protected] .

I am not sure if this career is right for me. How can I decide?

There are many excellent tools available that will allow you to measure your interests, profile your personality, and match these traits with appropriate careers. On this site, you can take the Career Personality Profiler assessment, the Holland Code assessment, or the Photo Career Quiz .

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So You Want to Be a Medical Scientist

• By Med School Insiders
• January 27, 2024
• Accompanying Video , Pre-med
• So You Want to Be

So you want to be a medical scientist. An MD isn’t enough to make your parents proud, so why not toss in a PhD as well? With your MD/PhD, you’ll be making groundbreaking medical discoveries each day you go to work. Well, not quite. This is the reality of being a medical scientist.

Welcome to our next installment in So You Want to Be. In this series, we highlight a specific medical career path to help you decide if it’s a good fit for you. You can find the other specialties on our So You Want To Be blog category  or  YouTube playlist .

What Is a Medical Scientist?

A medical scientist or physician scientist isn’t a distinct specialty of medicine but rather a career path you choose to take.

Medical scientists might hold a PhD, an MD, or both. These are notable distinctions because a PhD will not have gone to medical school, whereas earning an MD or MD/PhD requires four years of medical school. That’s why some medical scientists with an MD prefer to be referred to as physician scientists.

For the purposes of this guide, we’ll be focusing on the MD path, but much of the pros and cons and day-to-day will also apply to anyone interested in becoming a PhD medical scientist without an MD.

A medical scientist is dedicated to conducting research that enhances our understanding of human health and diseases. They focus on exploring the causes and progressions of various health conditions, aiming to develop effective treatments and preventive measures.

Depending on their interest and field of study, medical scientists often devote approximately 4 to 5 days of their work week to performing research in laboratories. An integral part of this includes writing research grants, conducting lab meetings, and performing meticulous analysis of experimental data, and they often employ statistical methods to decipher complex health-related phenomena.

Medical scientists can also be actively involved in conducting clinical trials. These trials are critical for testing the safety and efficacy of new treatments, drugs, or medical devices on human subjects. Collaboration is a cornerstone of their work, as they frequently team up with doctors, other scientists, and statisticians. This multidisciplinary approach is essential due to the multifaceted nature of medical research.

After testing a hypothesis, medical scientists publish their findings in scientific journals and share their discoveries with both the medical community and, at times, the broader public. This dissemination of knowledge can significantly influence healthcare practices and policy-making.

Medical scientists can have a profound impact on healthcare, which can be incredibly rewarding. Their contributions are vital for the development of new medical treatments and diagnostics, ultimately leading to enhanced patient care and health outcomes.

Medical scientists can practice in a wide variety of different settings.

Academic Settings

Academic settings are the most common workplace.

Universities and medical schools offer an environment conducive to both research and teaching, given that there are interested students, faculty, and many technicians and other research personnel. In these settings, physician scientists often conduct research, teach medical students and residents, and sometimes practice clinically.

Academic institutions provide support to tackle research projects, including obtaining funding and the facilities for shared lab equipment. Most academic settings also have the benefit of being associated with large hospitals and medical centers.

Research Institutes

Independent research institutes, which often focus on specific diseases or types of research, are another common workplace. These institutes may have affiliations with academic centers, but they function primarily as dedicated research facilities. Physician scientists in this setting can focus intensively on research, often with greater resources and specialized equipment.

Pharmaceutical and Biotechnology Companies

Some physician scientists work in the industry, particularly with companies that focus on developing new medications or medical technologies. Their clinical expertise is required to develop new treatments, understand patient needs, and conduct clinical trials.

Government Agencies

Government agencies like the National Institutes of Health, or NIH, and the Food and Drug Administration, or FDA, employ physician scientists in various capacities. They can work on public health research, policy development, and administration of research programs. Their medical expertise helps to shape health policies and research agendas at the national level.

Nonprofit Organizations and Foundations

Some physician scientists work with nonprofits and foundations that focus on health research and policy. These roles can involve research, advocacy, and the development of programs to improve healthcare delivery and outcomes.

Private Practice and Consultancy

Although less common, some physician scientists may be involved in private practice, either in clinical work, consultancy, or in combination with research activities. These roles often require balancing clinical duties with research interests.

Common Misconceptions About Medical Research

Let’s clear up some of the misconceptions about working as a medical scientist.

A common misconception is that medical research frequently leads to immediate, groundbreaking discoveries. In reality, the process is often slow and meticulous.

Significant breakthroughs are relatively rare and are usually the result of many years of sustained research. The journey involves numerous incremental advancements as opposed to dramatic new findings.

The career path for medical scientists isn’t always straightforward and can be quite varied. Individuals in this field may find themselves transitioning between different sectors, such as academia, industry, and government roles. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all career trajectory in medical science, and success often requires flexibility and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances and opportunities.

Another misconception is that medical scientists exclusively work in labs. In reality, their work is multifaceted, encompassing not only laboratory research but also data analysis, writing research papers and grant applications, and presenting findings at conferences. This variety in tasks ensures that the role is diverse and not confined to a single setting.

Lastly, many people believe there are limited job opportunities for medical scientists. The field is broad, offering diverse career opportunities in academia, the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries, government agencies, and healthcare organizations. The job opportunities are so varied because the skill set of a medical scientist, and their ability to communicate with other scientific parties, is valued across multiple sectors.

How to Become a Medical Scientist

Becoming a physician scientist with an MD/PhD involves a rigorous and lengthy educational process that’s designed to train individuals who are interested in both practicing medicine and conducting biomedical research.

The journey is largely split into two branches: pursuing each degree independently or enrolling in an MD/PhD program or integrated Medical Scientist Training Program, MSTP.

Pursuing an MD and PhD Independently

With a sequential approach, you first must complete a Doctor of Medicine (MD) program and then enroll in a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program, or vice versa. This path is less common due to the extended time commitment and the requirement of two different and unique applications—one for MD and another for the PhD program. MD graduates may choose to pursue their PhD during or after residency.

An MD program typically takes 4 years and is focused on clinical training, preparing students for a career in medicine. This is the same path anyone who wants to become an MD will begin with, no matter the specialty.

A PhD program with a research focus usually takes 4-6 years and requires a dissertation based on original research.

Independently pursuing an MD and PhD usually takes longer than completing a joint program or MSTP. The time to complete both programs can range from 8-12 years, depending on a student’s pace and the nature of their PhD research.

This route offers flexibility in timing and choice of programs but can be more challenging due to the lack of a structured pathway. Many courses will likely be repeated, and unlike the opportunities available to those enrolled in an MSTP, there’s no tuition reimbursement.

Medical Scientist Training Program (MSTP)

Medical Scientist Training Programs are dual-degree programs designed to integrate medical and graduate education.

Training occurs simultaneously in medicine and research, as pursuing degrees independently can sometimes result in a disconnect between the two fields. There are around 50 MSTPs located across the US.

The MSTP distinction means the NIH provides governmental funds to support the program, including tuition coverage and a graduate stipend every year, making MSTPs more financially appealing. There are also MD/PhD programs that are not MSTP, but their funding depends on the internal program and institution itself, not the government. Because of this, non-MSTP programs tend to be smaller in size.

There are appropriate standards across MSTP institutions, such as annual retreats, a formalized curriculum, and seminars to aid in transitions. The structured curriculum smoothly transitions students between medical training and research~~, with research rotations completed during the summers in between medical school semesters~~.

An MSTP is typically 7 to 8 years in length and involves two phases: Pre-clinical and clinical, and these phases are interspersed with PhD research.

Because of the limited spots available, guaranteed stipends, and the fact the programs are often located at more prestigious schools, admission to MSTPs is highly competitive.

Each year, there are approximately 700 MD/PhD matriculants across the nation. Students must not only have satisfied requirements for medical school entry, which includes extracurriculars as well as a high MCAT and GPA, but also have actively participated in several research projects or experiences. Lately, competitive applicants commonly have at least one publication. Unfortunately, because of NIH governmental funding, MSTPs do not accept international or non-US trainees.

Subspecialties Within Medical Research

What about subspecialization?

Most MD/PhD graduates choose to pursue residency and fellowship training, which will take another 3-7 years minimum. Their dual degree, research prowess, and extensive training it takes to complete an MD/PhD makes them particularly attractive to residency programs.

While MD/PhD graduates can enter any medical specialty, some fields are more common due to the presence of integrated research pathways, funding availability, and research prevalence in the specialty.

Internal medicine, pediatrics, pathology, neurology, psychiatry, radiology, and radiation oncology are common residency paths. Given how long the MD/PhD training already is, students interested in longer residencies and fellowships must acknowledge the delayed income, level of work ethic, and perseverance required to complete this 1- to 2-decade journey.

What You’ll Love About Being a Medical Scientist

There’s a lot to love about working as a medical scientist.

People who love working as a medical scientist cite the dynamic and intellectually stimulating nature of their work as a major draw. The field offers a unique blend of clinical practice and research, allowing individuals to directly impact patient care while also contributing to the broader understanding of medical science.

The variety in day-to-day activities is a significant appeal. One day might involve seeing patients and addressing their immediate health concerns, while the next could be dedicated to laboratory research or analyzing data to uncover new insights into disease mechanisms.

Medical scientists also encounter diverse patient populations, providing a rich and rewarding clinical experience. The “bread and butter” of work ranges from routine patient examinations to conducting groundbreaking research, which means no two days are alike.

Additionally, the lifestyle of a medical scientist is flexible, with the ability to balance clinical duties with research pursuits. This balance makes for a career that is not only professionally fulfilling but also accommodating of personal interests and commitments. The sense of contribution to both immediate patient health and the advancement of medical knowledge is a powerful motivator and source of satisfaction and fulfillment for those in this field.

What You Won’t Love About Being a Medical Scientist

While the career of a medical scientist has a lot to offer, it’s a long journey to get there, which isn’t for everyone.

The most notable downside to this career path is the extra training involved, which delays your ability to earn an attending salary even further. While many MD/PhD programs offer stipends and tuition waivers, the extended years in training equates to delayed entry into the full-time workforce.

The field requires extensive education and training, and the early years, particularly in academic or research settings, may not be as financially rewarding as other professions requiring similar levels of education. However, it can be a financially stable and rewarding career over the long term.

Though rewarding when breakthroughs are made, these don’t happen every day—far from it. Research can seem exciting and even sexy from the outside, but it’s often a slow and frustrating process; some experiments may require years to see results, whereas others may never yield the expected results. This can be disheartening, especially for those who are results-oriented.

That’s why it’s so important for premeds to get exposure to various types of research before they dedicate their education and future careers to it. Some types of research may be more appealing than others, and you could write it off entirely after one bad experience before figuring out what you like.

Additionally, the dual demands of clinical practice and research can lead to a busy lifestyle. Balancing patient care with the rigors of scientific investigation means long hours, which often impact work-life balance and job satisfaction.

Lastly, securing funding for research is a constant challenge. The competitive nature of grant applications and the reliance on external funding sources can create uncertainty and affect the scope and direction of research. And different areas of research see different spikes and drops in popularity, given public perception and government funding priorities. What’s most important or most interesting to you isn’t always what’s most funded.

For those in academic settings, there’s often pressure to publish regularly, contribute to teaching, and maintain a reputation in the scientific community, which can be demanding alongside clinical responsibilities. These activities are not reimbursed yet are frequently seen as necessary.

Should You Become a Medical Scientist?

So, should you become a medical scientist?

Medical scientists get to help shape healthcare delivery and treatment. Those who are naturally curious, enjoy solving complex problems, and are constantly seeking new knowledge tend to do well in this field. Enjoying teamwork and collaboration is also important, as medical scientists often work with other researchers, clinicians, and healthcare professionals. If you have a genuine interest in understanding disease mechanisms and a drive to improve patient care, this may be an ideal path for you.

However, the path to becoming a medical scientist is long and can be filled with challenges, including research setbacks and the pressures of medical training. The field of research can also be unpredictable and full of unknowns. Comfort with ambiguity and a flexible mindset are crucial.

Patience and resilience are also incredibly vital and relevant traits to possess. It’s easy to become discouraged while conducting research. Medical scientists must be able to push through the failed experiments, rejections from grant approvals, long periods of monotony, as well as periods of great challenge. Earning an MD already requires significant levels of dedication and perseverance. An MD/PhD takes this to a whole new level, not only because the training is longer, but also because the day-to-day requires more patience than regular MD work. Research is no cakewalk.

If you’re considering becoming a medical scientist, seek out mentors and experiences in both research and clinical settings to better understand the nature of the work and whether or not it aligns with your interests. Engaging in longitudinal research projects can provide valuable insights and help you make an informed decision.

If you’re considering a career as a medical scientist or in medicine as a whole, elevating your research skillset and becoming prolific in research will open doors for you. Our all-new Ultimate Research Course is packed with dozens of videos, resources, and exclusive private community access to elevate your research game to the highest level. Learn from the Med School Insiders experts on our tested and proven tactics to publish dozens and dozens of publications to wow admissions committees and make your application stand out. Whether you’re applying to MD/PhD programs or MD programs, we’re confident you are going to find tremendous value. So much so, it comes with a money back guarantee so that there’s no risk to you.

Med School Insiders has helped thousands of premeds and medical students design and achieve their ideal career paths and we’d love to be a part of your journey to becoming a future physician.

Special thanks to physician scientist Dr. Albert Zhou for helping us create this So You Want to Be entry.

It’s never too early to begin thinking about the specialty you want to pursue. If you’re struggling to choose the best path for you, our So You Want to Be playlist is a great place to start.

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How to Become a Medical Scientist

Duties, responsibilities, schooling, requirements, certifications, job outlook, and salary.

Love the idea of driving breakthroughs in human health? Medical scientists are a critical part of developing emerging medical technology in medical devices, pharmaceuticals, and numerous other fields in the healthcare industry. If you’re the curious type who thrives on the pursuit of knowledge, a career as a medical scientist may be for you.

This career guide will teach you everything you need to know about becoming a medical scientist, including the educational requirements, certifications, day-to-day duties, and how long it generally takes to launch your new career.

Not sure if becoming a medical scientist is right for you? Click here to see our full list of the best entry-level medical jobs .

Medical Scientist Definition

What is a medical scientist.

Medical scientists are the researchers and fact-finders of the healthcare industry. They develop and conduct experiments to test medical devices and new drugs, study the root causes of diseases, and improve the effectiveness of treatments. They also analyze data to develop research-based insights that hospitals, physicians, or manufacturers depend on to help people get healthier.

Medical Scientist: Job Description

What does a medical scientist do.

Before any pharmaceutical drug, treatment, or medical device is used to treat patients, it goes through extensive testing and research to ensure it’s both safe and effective. Medical scientists use their curiosity, analytical skills, and attention to detail to conduct the research that drives advancements in the medical field, both in developing new treatments and developing knowledge to prevent health problems.

Medical Scientist Duties

Some of the day-to-day responsibilities of medical scientists include:

• Developing hypotheses and designing experiments to test them
• Preparing and analyzing medical samples and data
• Working with physicians or public officials to develop and implement public-health programs
• Following strict guidelines to ensure safety and prevent contamination of samples
• Writing research grant proposals to secure funding sources

Medical Scientist Skills

Great medical scientists are observant and curious, with the critical-thinking and data-analysis skills to turn large amounts of information into actionable insights. Good attention to detail is equally important, especially when working in a laboratory setting. You’ll also need the communication skills to explain your conclusions or write grant proposals to convince people that your research is worthwhile.

Medical Scientist Hours & Work Environment

Medical scientists usually work a full-time, 40-hour workweek. They usually split their time between laboratory and office settings, though most entry-level medical scientist jobs will involve lots of lab work. Certain areas of their research may involve working with dangerous biological samples or chemicals. However, adequate protective gear and training are always provided, and many protocols are in place to ensure a safe working environment.

Medical Scientist Schooling & Certification

How long does it take to become a medical scientist, what degree do you need to be a medical scientist.

While many top medical scientists have a Ph. D. in biology or another life science, increasing numbers of medical scientist jobs are becoming available for those with just a bachelor’s degree, providing ample opportunities to get started in a growing industry. That means that instead of spending an extensive amount of time in school, you can complete a Medical Laboratory Science program in as little as 120 weeks before starting in an exciting new line of work.

Like any long-term goal, working toward a new career as a medical scientist seems much more attainable when you break it down into individual steps.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to the education, experience, and certifications you’ll need to become a medical scientist:

1. Enroll in a Medical Laboratory Science Degree Program

Whether you’re fresh out of high school or looking for a change of pace after working another career, a bachelor’s degree program from an accredited college is the best way to start working towards your future as a medical scientist. To enroll in the Medical Laboratory Science program at Brookline College, you’ll need a high school diploma or GED and a passing grade on a Scholastic Level Exam.

2. Earn Your Bachelor’s Degree in Medical Laboratory Science

Every bachelor’s degree program will have general education requirements like math, communications, and social and behavioral sciences. All these courses will help you become a more well-rounded professional and person in general—plus keep you from getting too burnt out on all the chemistry and biology you’ll undoubtedly be studying!

Speaking of your degree-specific studies, as you might have guessed, for a career as a scientist, you’ll spend a lot of time studying various types of science—including microbiology, organic and chemical chemistry, and medical-specific applications like hematology and immunology. Ideally, you’ll also receive hands-on training in a laboratory environment, where you’ll learn practical knowledge about the equipment used and learn to perform and analyze the type of lab tests you’ll likely be performing as an entry-level medical scientist. When choosing a medical lab science degree program, consider looking for one that offers students job-placement assistance after finishing their degree, as it can give you a major leg up when it comes time to find an employer.

3. Get Certified by One of the Major Professional Organizations

After earning your medical laboratory science degree, gaining additional certifications is a great way to make yourself more attractive to potential employers. Medical scientists looking to land entry-level jobs should consider certifications from American Medical Technologists (AMT) or the American Society of Clinical Pathology (ASCP) . Both organizations will test you on your knowledge of general laboratory methods and procedures, as well as specifics about areas ranging from hematology and urinalysis to chemistry and microbiology.

AMT certification requires passing a standardized multiple-choice test, usually consisting of 200-230 questions. ASCP certification is a little different—rather than a standardized test, they use computer-adaptive testing in which a correct answer will prompt a more difficult question, and an incorrect answer will prompt a less difficult question. Both are great options, but one may be best for you depending on the area you plan to specialize in.

How Much Does it Cost to Earn a Medical Scientist Degree?

Many colleges and universities can charge $20,000 and up per semester in tuition alone—and that amount doesn’t include books, lab fees, or other supplies, not to mention living expenses. However, the rise in online education has made earning a bachelor’s degree much more accessible.

Medical Scientist Salaries

How much do medical scientists make.

Medical scientists are one of the highest-paid non-clinical professions in the healthcare industry. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics , medical scientists bring home an average annual salary* of about $99,000 . Medical scientists in the top 10% of earners can make up to $160,000 or more per year.

Highest Paying Industries for Medical Scientists

Medical scientists work anywhere in the healthcare industry research is happening—though a few industries tend to employ the majority of professionals in the field. Scientific research and development facilities employ the most medical scientists by far, with colleges, universities, and hospitals being the other major employers. Your salary* as a medical scientist can also vary depending on your chosen industry or workplace setting.

The following is a list of the highest paying industries for this profession:

Highest Paying States for Medical Scientists

Your location can also influence your level of compensation in the field of medical science. While many of the top-paying jobs for medical scientists tend to be in more densely populated areas, you may be surprised to learn some of the states with the highest average wages for medical scientists.

Highest Paying Cities for Medical Scientists

The following cities pay the highest average salaries to medical scientists in the US.

What is the Job Outlook for Medical Scientists?

Due to improvements in laboratory technology many of the medical lab science responsibilities that were traditionally carried out by PhDs. are now accomplished by medical scientists in more entry-level positions. And as the demand for medical scientists continue to increase, at an above-average rate of 6% by 2029 , it’s a stable career field with an excellent long-term job outlook .

Ready to Start Your Career as a Medical Scientist?

For those with an insatiable curiosity and a desire to contribute to a healthier world, a career as a medical scientist is incredibly rewarding. Learn more about the Medical Laboratory Science Program  at Brookline College, and get started on the road to a fulfilling new field of work.

While this blog may occasionally contain information that relates to Brookline College’s programs or courses, the majority of information provided within this blog is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to represent the specific details of any educational offerings or opinions of Brookline College.

*Please note that wage data provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) or other third-party sources may not be an accurate reflection of all areas of the country, may not account for the employees’ years of experience, and may not reflect the wages or outlook of entry-level employees, such as graduates of our program. (accessed on 4/5/2024)

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Medical Research Scientist

What does a professional in this career do.

A Medical Research Scientist conducts research with the goal of understanding diseases and improving human health. May study biology and causes of health problems, assess effectiveness of treatments or develop new pharmaceutical products. May direct clinical trials to gather data..

Job Outlook

There were 186 Medical Research Scientist job postings in North Carolina in the past year and 7392 in the United States.

In combination with other careers in the Medical Scientist industry, which includes the Medical Research Scientist career, the following graph shows the number of people employed for each year since 2015:

Many new Medical Research Scientist jobs have salaries estimated to be in the following ranges, based on the requirements and responsibilities listed in job postings from the past year.

The average estimated salary in the United States for this career, based on job postings in the past year, is $173,782.

The average estimated salary in North Carolina for this career, based on job postings in the past year, is $136,246.

Percentiles represent the percentage that is lower than the value. For example, 25% of estimated salaries for Medical Research Scientist postings in the United States in the past year were lower than $93,118.

Education and Experience

Posted Medical Research Scientist jobs typically require the following level of education. The numbers below are based on job postings in the United States from the past year. Not all job postings list education requirements.

Posted Medical Research Scientist jobs typically require the following number of years of experience. The numbers below are based on job postings in the United States from the past year. Not all job postings list experience requirements.

Below are listings of the most common general and specialized skills Medical Research Scientist positions expect applicants to have as well as the most common skills that distinguish individuals from their peers. The percentage of job postings that specifically mention each skill is also listed.

Baseline Skills

A skill that is required across a broad range of occupations, including this one.

• Research (28.63%)
• Communication (12.3%)
• Teaching (11.07%)
• Management (9.85%)
• Leadership (9.04%)
• Writing (6.7%)
• Operations (6.28%)
• Innovation (5.83%)
• Presentations (5.61%)
• Problem Solving (5.09%)

Defining Skills

A core skill for this occupation, it occurs frequently in job postings.

• Clinical Research (9.01%)
• Diabetes Mellitus (23.43%)
• Endocrinology (80.51%)

Necessary Skills

A skill that is requested frequently in this occupation but isn’t specific to it.

• Biomarkers (2.84%)
• Workflow Management (1.85%)
• Biotechnology (2.21%)
• Pediatrics (11.62%)
• Molecular Biology (4.82%)
• Quality Improvement (2.51%)
• Cell Biology (4.52%)
• Biochemical Assays (5.73%)
• Clinical Practices (2.5%)
• Biochemistry (3.1%)
• Metabolism (6.45%)
• Immunology (5.1%)
• Clinical Trials (6.56%)
• Flow Cytometry (4%)
• Cell Cultures (4.27%)
• Biology (7.87%)
• R (Programming Language) (1.24%)
• Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent (ELISA) Assay (2.51%)
• Data Analysis (4.72%)
• Internal Medicine (7.01%)
• Oncology (9.13%)
• Nursing (4.96%)
• Western Blot (2.19%)
• Research Experiences (2.71%)
• Pharmaceuticals (3.78%)
• Surgery (4.36%)

Distinguishing Skills

A skill that may distinguish a subset of the occupation.

• Endocrine Diseases And Disorders (3.36%)
• Thyroid (7.26%)

Salary Boosting Skills

A professional who wishes to excel in this career path may consider developing the following highly valued skills. The percentage of job postings that specifically mention each skill is listed.

• Endocrine Diseases And Disorders (4.17%)
• Thyroid (9.02%)
• Endocrinology (99.95%)

Alternative Job Titles

Sometimes employers post jobs with Medical Research Scientist skills but a different job title. Some common alternative job titles include:

• Endocrinologist
• Endocrinology Physician
• Pediatric Endocrinologist
• Endocrinology Registered Nurse
• Oncology Research Scientist
• Reproductive Endocrinologist
• Endocrinology Medical Assistant
• Endocrinology Diabetes Care Specialist
• Medical Researcher

Similar Occupations

If you are interested in exploring occupations with similar skills, you may want to research the following job titles. Note that we only list occupations that have at least one corresponding NC State Online and Distance Education program.

• Biomedical Scientist

Common Employers

Here are the employers that have posted the most Medical Research Scientist jobs in the past year along with how many they have posted.

United States

• Archway Physician Recruitment (388)
• CompHealth (172)
• Enterprise Medical Recruiting (153)
• Britt Medical Search (133)
• AMN Healthcare (123)
• Weatherby Healthcare (77)
• The Curare Group (76)
• University of California (76)
• Summit Recruiting Services, LLC. (71)
• Permanent Placement Resources (68)

North Carolina

• Archway Physician Recruitment (25)
• Atrium Health Floyd (18)
• Atrium Health (17)
• AMN Healthcare (13)
• Novant Health (12)
• UNC Health (7)
• HCA Healthcare (6)
• Permanent Placement Resources (5)
• Wake Forest Baptist Health (5)
• University of North Carolina (4)

NC State Programs Relevant to this Career

If you are interested in preparing for a career in this field, the following NC State Online and Distance Education programs offer a great place to start!

All wages, job posting statistics, employment trend projections, and information about skill desirability on this page represents historical data and does not guarantee future conditions. Data is provided by and downloaded regularly from Lightcast. For more information about how Lightcast gathers data and what it represents, see Lightcast Data: Basic Overview on Lightcast's Knowledge Base website.

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A Career as a Research Scientist

Conduct research on biomedical mechanisms, diagnosis and therapy, population and outcome medicine, health policy or health services

Work at Academic Health Centers, Hospitals, Federal laboratories, or Biotech/Pharmaceutical industry

Collaborate with a team of researchers

Multi-center clinical studies are supported by the NIH for clinical studies, interventional trials and observational studies, conducted at three or more centers. The NIH- R24 supports strong interdisciplinary research teams focused on innovative approaches to address current challenges.

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The R01 provides support for health-related research that stems from an investigator or multi-investigator team. The R21 encourages exploratory/developmental research, usually proposed as a two-year project.

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How To Become A Medical Scientist

Stan T. April 28, 2020 Career , Requirements Leave a Comment

How Long Does It Take, What Degree Do You Need, and More

Medical Scientists

Medical Scientists conduct research dealing with the understanding of human diseases and the improvement of human health. Engage in clinical investigation, research and development, or other related activities.

Table of contents

• Steps to become one
• Popular degree levels

How long does it take

Medical Scientists need a Doctoral degree to enter this field. The most common degrees for Medical Scientists include Medical Doctor (M.D.) and Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.). Medical Scientists do not need licenses to practice medicine unless they administer drugs to patients in clinical trials.

Medical Scientists Requirements

Step 1: study science in high school.

Aspiring Medical Scientists should explore Science in high school. Take the highest level of Science courses available, which may include advanced placement (AP) courses such as Biology, Physics, and Chemistry.

Step 2: Earn an Undergraduate Degree

Medical Scientists need to earn a Bachelor’s degree before continuing their educational path. Biology is the most common field of study for pre-med students who want to become Medical Scientists.

Medical Scientists study diseases and conditions to help improve the health of patients, which requires a strong background in Biology. However, aspiring Medical Scientists may also major in Chemistry or Physics.

Students should take a broad range of classes, including the Physical and Life Sciences. Reviewing the prerequisites of the program that you plan on applying to after earning a Bachelor’s degree is also recommended.

Step 3: Earn a Ph.D. Through a Dual-Degree Program

Many Medical Scientists earn Ph.D.s in specific areas of medicine such as Cancer, Neurology, or Gerontology. The most common path involves enrolling in a dual-degree program. This allows you to earn a Master’s degree followed by a Ph.D.

Dual-degree programs may take six years to complete. The first four years cover the core requirements for earning a Master’s degree while the final two years focus on Doctoral research and training in your chosen specialization.

Step 4: Obtain a Research Position

After earning a Ph.D., Medical Scientists typically continue their education through research positions. Postdoctoral research positions often involve lab work and research with experienced Scientists.

When a research project ends, the work is often published for peer review. Everyone involved in the project is often credited. Getting published is often a necessary step for advancing your career.

Step 5: Earn a Medical Degree

As an alternative to earning a Ph.D. and completing postdoctoral work, some Medical Scientists choose to attend medical school . You may even choose to earn a Ph.D. and a Medical degree.

Common Medical degrees include Medical Doctor (M.D.), Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.), Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.), and Doctor of Dental Medicine (D.M.D.).

If you decide to earn a Medical degree instead of, or in addition to, a Ph.D., you need to take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT). The MCAT is a multiple-choice exam that assesses your basic knowledge of medical practices and terms.

Medical programs last four years and are traditionally divided into two parts. The first part of the program covers classroom learning, such as the practices of treating and diagnosing patients. The second part of the program focuses on clinical rotations to give students a hands-on education.

Step 6: Join a Residency Program

Aspiring Medical Scientists who earn Medical degrees instead of Ph.D.s should join a residency program. Residency programs last three to seven years, depending on the specialty. Residency programs often take place at hospitals and include hands-on training working with patients.

Step 7: Look for Medical Scientist Positions

After finishing your postdoctoral research or a residency program, begin looking for positions as a Medical Scientist. Medical Scientists are often employed by pharmaceutical companies and health agencies that obtain funding through the Federal government.

Step 8: Obtain Related Work Experience

If you struggle to obtain a position in your chosen profession, you may choose to work as a Physician or a Surgeon to gain work experience. Many Medical Scientists work as Physicians or Surgeons for years before becoming more interested in research. Working as a Physician or a Surgeon will require you to obtain a state license and possibly board certification in your area of specialty.

What degree do most Medical Scientists have

We did a survey to ask other Medical Scientists what degree they had when they first became one. Here are the results.

Medical Scientists need an undergraduate degree, which takes four years to earn. This is followed by a six-year dual-degree program or a four-year Medical degree program. After earning a Ph.D., aspiring Medical Scientists may complete a research project, which can take one to two years. Those with a Medical degree complete a residency program, which often takes three years.

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Research scientist (medical)

Working as a medical research scientist means you'll be contributing to important developments in the world of medicine

As a medical research scientist, one of your aims will be to increase the body of scientific knowledge on topics related to medicine. You will do this by planning and conducting experiments and sharing your results.

You may also use your research to develop new, or improve existing, drugs, treatments or other medically-related products.

You can find work in higher education institutions, research institutes, hospitals, industry and medical research charities. The type of research you can carry out is wide ranging from from investigating the underlying basis of health or disease, to conducting clinical research and investigating methods of prevention, diagnosis and treatment of human disorders.

It's also possible for you to carry out molecular level research. This may involve using appropriate cell and animal models, or human volunteers may be used to study the clinical effects of various factors.

Responsibilities

Roles vary depending on the setting, but much of the work is laboratory-based. In general you'll need to:

• plan and conduct experiments and analyse or interpret the results
• keep accurate records of work undertaken
• use specialist computer software to analyse data and to produce diagrammatic representation of results
• write and submit applications and progress reports to funding bodies that support medical research (outside industry)
• discuss research progress with other departments, e.g. production and marketing (in industry)
• constantly consider the profit/loss potential of research products (in industry)
• collaborate with industry, research institutes, hospitals and academia
• teach and supervise students (in some higher education roles).

You'll often need to disseminate the results of your work to others, which means you'll:

• carry out presentations or discussions at team meetings with colleagues
• prepare presentations and deliver these at national and international scientific conferences
• write original papers for publication in peer-reviewed medical or scientific journals. In industry, there is usually less pressure to publish.

It's also important to stay in touch with developments and advances in your field and so you'll need to:

• read relevant scientific literature and journals
• attend scientific meetings and conferences in order to hear presentations from other researchers and participate in informal discussions with scientists from other parts of the world.
• If you're doing a PhD and have been awarded a studentship, it will usually come with a tax-free stipend to help cover living costs. This is currently at least £18,622 if funded by UKRI. Some institutions may award higher amounts or you may receive more if you’re industry funded or based in London.
• If you've completed a PhD, you may start on £25,000 to £40,000 a year, depending on your specialist subject and experience.
• Senior researchers and university professors earn in the region of £50,000 to £75,000 a year or more.

For current details on PhD studentship stipends, see UKRI - Studentships and Doctoral Training .

The majority of academic institutions in the UK have now implemented a single pay spine for all grades of staff. Pay varies according to whether you're leader of your own research group, part of a team of researchers or whether you've secured a lectureship while continuing your research.

Pay is usually higher in industry and the private sector.

Income figures are intended as a guide only.

Working hours

Your hours will vary depending on your setting. In academia in particular, there may be some flexibility with your start and finish times. Due to the nature of experimental work, hours can be irregular and may require some evening or weekend work.

You may be required to work longer hours when grant application deadlines are looming or an important experiment is underway. Overtime tends to be paid in industry but is unusual in academia.

What to expect

• Work is mainly laboratory-based with some time spent in the office planning and writing up experiments. Some positions may require field work.
• With career progression, the work becomes more office-based with a focus on writing grant applications, collaborating with other scientists, supervising staff, planning experiments, writing papers for publication and reviewing papers.
• Care and attention to detail is required as work can involve contact with potentially toxic or radioactive materials.
• Working with animals or animal-derived products, such as embryonic stem cells, may form part of the research, which will be an ethical dilemma for some. See the arguments at Understanding Animal Research .
• Travel is sometimes required, as you'll often collaborate with other institutions. Some national and international travel is needed for attendance at conferences to present the results of your research and to keep up to date with research findings from peers. Travel typically becomes more frequent with career progression.
• Initiatives are in place in various sectors to encourage equality, inclusion and diversity within medical research. UKRI has equality, diversity and inclusion policies and guidance with the aim to create a dynamic system of research and innovation in the UK.

Qualifications

You'll need a good honours degree in a medical or life science subject to become a medical researcher. Relevant subjects include:

• biochemistry
• biomedical sciences
• medical microbiology
• molecular biology
• pharmacology
• physiology.

Many areas of medical research now also look for graduates in chemistry, physics or statistics/bioinformatics, so you can be successful if you have a degree in one of these subjects.

Most people entering this field have or will be working towards a research-based MSc or a PhD. This is particularly important for higher level positions and career progression without a PhD (particularly in academia) is likely to be limited.

You may be able to enter with just your degree and no postgraduate qualification if you also have some significant laboratory experience but you'll typically still need a PhD to then progress.

Direct entry to a research scientist role with an HND or foundation degree only is not possible. With either of these qualifications, you may be able to enter at technician level, but you'll need to take further qualifications to become a medical researcher. Some employers allow you to study while working part time.

Funding is made available to research institutions via the Medical Research Council (MRC). This is then passed on to students in the form of scholarships, bursaries and studentships. Contact the individual institution to find out more about the funding options.

You'll need to show:

• technical, scientific and numerical skills
• good written and oral communication skills for report writing and presenting findings
• genuine enjoyment of the research subject
• a methodical approach to work with good planning skills
• tenacity and patience when carrying out experiments
• the ability to work well in teams and to network and forge links with collaborators
• problem-solving skills and analytical thinking
• attention to detail.

Work experience

Laboratory experience and knowledge of the range of techniques used will improve your chances of finding a research appointment. Experience can be achieved through either a placement year in industry or vacation work experience in academia or industry.

You could make speculative applications to potential academic supervisors to ask for work experience or shadowing opportunities. You may also want to consider getting experience within both industry and academia so you can see how the different sectors vary and where your preference lies.

Funding for placements and projects may be available through:

• Nuffield Foundation

You should also try to keep up to date with developments in the medical field and the Medical Research Council (MRC) can help with this.

Find out more about the different kinds of work experience and internships that are available.

There are various employers in medical research, including:

• industry (especially pharmaceutical companies)
• non-governmental and voluntary bodies
• medical research charities
• research councils, especially the Medical Research Council (MRC)
• universities.

Work outside industry is usually funded by the government through the allocation of research funding to universities, research councils and hospitals.

Medical research also receives extensive financial support from charitable bodies that fund specific research into their areas of interest.

Opportunities are also available through Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTP) . This is a joint project between a graduate, an organisation and a 'knowledge base', such as a university or a research organisation, which allows PhD graduates to apply research in a commercial environment.

Look for job vacancies at:

• Medical Research Council (MRC)
• Nature Jobs
• New Scientist Jobs
• Times Higher Education Uni Jobs

University websites advertise vacancies too.

Specialist recruitment agencies are used within the scientific community. These include:

• Cranleigh Scientific

Professional development

If you're studying for a PhD while being employed in a medical research post, you'll be supported by a supervisor. Your institution is likely to provide additional training or you can access this through Vitae , which helps to support the professional development of researchers.

You'll need to keep up to date with developments in your field throughout your career and continuing professional development (CPD) is very important for this.

Technical training, either self-taught or from more experienced scientists, will allow you to learn new laboratory techniques. It's also common to visit other labs to be taught techniques that are already established elsewhere.

You'll be expected to attend conferences on a regular basis to hear about scientific advances and new research techniques. On occasion, you'll be required to present your own work.

Training may be more structured in industry and it may be possible for you to develop your own training programme with guidance from a mentor.

Membership of a professional organisation is useful for support throughout your career and to help with CPD. Many professional bodies have their own learning and training schemes and can help with how your record your CPD activities. You can also work towards professional qualifications or chartered status as you gain experience.

Relevant bodies include:

• Royal Society of Biology

Career prospects

Career structures vary between sectors. In academia, once you've completed your PhD, it's likely you'll enter a postdoctoral position. These are normally short-term contracts of up to three years.

Career progression is related to the success of your research project(s), the quality and quantity of original papers you publish and your success in attracting funding. Building up experience in laboratory specialties can also help. With experience, you can progress to senior research fellow or professor and can one day manage your own team.

You'll usually have to undertake a few short-term contracts before you have a chance of securing a much sought-after permanent position in academic science. There are often teaching duties attached to these positions and opportunities are limited with high levels of competition.

Career development tends to be more structured in industry, hospitals or research institutes and involves taking on increased responsibilities, such as supervising and managing projects.

With experience and a successful track record, you can move into senior research and management roles. It's also be possible in some industrial companies to move into other functions, such as production, quality assurance, HR or marketing.

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What Is a Doctor of Clinical Laboratory Science (DCLS) Degree?

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The healthcare industry is notable for being a demanding field to work in. This is especially true for laboratory science professionals. These critical roles are responsible for accurate diagnosis and providing results that can be used when deciding a patient’s best path to recovery.

The University of Cincinnati has been a staple institution in this industry for more than 80 years, and is always working to provide innovative educational experiences for professionals in this field trying to advance. This is what led to the full laboratory science education pathway now offered through UC Online. These online programs are built to give students the opportunity to learn what they need to qualify for an advanced position while still balancing obligations like a job and a family.   

For professionals in the field interested in advancing their careers, the latest edition to the lab science education pathway provides the best opportunity: The Doctor of Clinical Laboratory Science (DCLS) . This new doctorate program is specialized to ensure that lab science professionals qualify for advanced positions in laboratory leadership and in educational settings.   

What is a  DCLS Program?

The Doctor of Clinical Laboratory (DCLS) is the first doctoral degree of its kind offered though UC Online. It is built to provide advanced education and emphasize the competencies outlined for laboratory professionals by industry organizations such as the American Society of Clinical Laboratory Science (ASCLS) and the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) . These competencies are based on improving the quality, efficiency, and safety of laboratories across the nation to improve the overall quality of healthcare.   

According to these competencies, students who finish this doctoral program will be able to:  

• Provide customized, patient-centered consultation services to help with clinical decision-making among healthcare teams for their patients.  
• Monitor laboratory data and perform tests and diagnostic procedures for patients using informatics and analytics to improve accuracy and reduce costs and errors.  
• Conduct research and apply evidence to demonstrate clinical laboratory tests and algorithms to improve the quality, efficiency, and safety of testing processes.  
• Educate healthcare providers and the public, including patients and their families, about the indications, evidence, preparation, and interpretation of lab testing, including at-home self-testing.  
• Direct laboratory operations to comply with all state and federal laws and regulations, including guidelines determined by professional licensure boards and certification/accreditation agencies.  
• Participate in public and private health policy decision-making at all organization and government levels using evidence.  

Why Pursue a  DCLS?

The laboratory science industry has been fighting personnel shortages for years. While advances in technology, such as automation , ha ve helped address some of these concerns, the re is still high demand for qualified leaders inside and outside of the lab. A DCLS degree is one of the top credentials that lab scientists can earn in this field. Professionals with this degree are understood to be among the most qualified in the field and can fill the roles that are impossible to supplement by automation.  

One of these roles is a High Complexity Laboratory Director (HCLD) . Th is is a specified position common throughout the industry whose function is defined by the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) in association with the Centers for Disease Control to ensure functional laboratories. HCLDs are advanced laboratory leaders who have technical and medical knowledge about laboratory methods to ensure results are accurate . These directors are also skilled leaders who use their expertise to manage teams of laboratory scientists and guide their organizations to success.   

Beyond the laboratory, a DCLS is also highly useful for developing laboratory scientists through higher education. Scientists with the DCLS qualification are commonly found in colleges throughout the country as professors who pass their knowledge and skills to the upcoming generation of laboratory scientists interested in advancing to new heights in their careers.   

Those who are interested in becoming an impactful leader inside and outside of the laboratory will benefit greatly from the academic credentials and skills the DCLS will provide. In an industry where filling vacancies is critical for delivering accurate results to healthcare providers, now is a perfect time to advance your career in laboratory science .   

Educational Requirements for a DCLS Program

The educational requirements to enroll in the Doctor of Clinical Laboratory Science at the University of Cincinnati are meant to be accessible for professionals at many education levels. Students are eligible for the DCLS program with a completed bachelor’s or master’s degree . Those who qualify at the bachelor’s level will have a somewhat longer journey to complete the program, but the road to the higher qualifications of a doctorate can be started from the undergraduate level.   

In addition to a completed degree, applicants to the Doctor of Clinical Laboratory Science must provide:  

• Certification Verification: Verification of a Generalist Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) or Medical T echnologist (MT) from a qualified organization – ASCP, ASCPi , AMT, or equivalent  
• Employment Verification: Applicants must show at least two years of prior clinical, industry, or research experience relating to laboratory science  
• GPA Requirements: Applicants must have at least a B average (3.0/4.0 system) in all college work.   
• Statement of Purpose: Each applicant must provide a 1,000-word statement of purpose that addresses personal, professional, and academic goals that highlights prior leadership and education experien ce    

You can see the full list of educational requirements for the program offered through UC Online at the program’s admission requirements page .   

Why Choose a DCLS Program from UC ?

The University of Cincinnati is known for its unparalleled online learning experience offered through UC Online. The online programs UC has to offer are built with working professionals in mind so they can efficiently earn their degrees and advance in their careers. The online doctorate offers the following benefits:  

• Asynchronous Coursework: All coursework is done online at the student’s pace making it easy to balance life and job commitments .    
• Renowned Faculty: Like the UC’s online Master’s in MLS Leadership program , the DCLS is directed by 2024 ASCLS President, Dr. Patricia Tille . She leads the rest of the renowned faculty working to deliver the best learning experience through UC Online.  
• Real-World Research and Clinical Applications: As part of the DCLS curriculum, students will be working in local health care institutions conducting clinical research that contributes to advancements in lab science. Students can complete this requirement in local institutions and avoid costly travel to complete the program.  
• Application to Graduation Student Support: UC is known for its dedicated support system that helps students from the time they apply to the program until they graduate . This same support will be there for students of the DCLS.  

How UC Sets Itself Apart with a “Full Education Pathway”

The University of Cincinnati has offered online programs in laboratory science for more than 20 yea rs , and has honed its expertise in educa t ion across many collegiate levels. From the undergraduate to the doctorate level, UC is here to offer a quality education experience at any level.   

The online Bachelor’s in Medical Laboratory Science , Master’s in Medical Laboratory Science Leadership serve as precursors for the Doctor of Clinical Laboratory Science. Each program is made to flow seamlessly into the next with the DCLS being especially accessible from the m aster’s program. Regardless of what level of college you’re in, the University of Cincinnati is here to make the pathway upward as manageable as possible   

Contact the University of Cincinnati today to Start Your Journey

Are you ready to take the next step in your lab science education journey? Visit the Doctor of Clinical Laboratory Science webpage to get started on your application. The DCLS program currently only starts during the Fall Cohort each year. Submit your application early as there are a limited number of spots available each cohort!   

If you have any questions, we encourage you to connect with an advisor directly via email or by calling directly at (833) 556-8611 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.  

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long is the dcls program.

The Doctor of Clinical Laboratory Science program consists of 81 credit hours for most students with a bachelor’s degree and 60 for students with their master’s. A full-time student can finish this program in as little as 3 years, while most part-time students can finish in as little as 6.  

Is the DCLS a PhD?

No, the DCLS is not PhD . I t is a professional doctorate specifically designed for laboratory science.  

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Applied Clinical Research

A St. Cloud State at Plymouth program

Join One of Minnesota's Top Industries

Demand for skilled clinical research professionals is high and growing — spurred on by the growing health care industry, new product development and increasing demands for medical evidence by patients, practitioners and payers. 

The Applied Clinical Research master's program is one of only three nationally-accredited clinical research programs by the Commission of Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) . The program offers a portfolio/internship or capstone track and graduate certificate options at St. Cloud State at Plymouth in Plymouth, Minnesota. Admission decisions are made on a rolling basis. When spots are filled, applicants will automatically be considered for the next semester.

Classes are held in the evening during the workweek and Saturdays. Participation is available in person or virtually.

Applied Clinical Research is a STEM-recognized program for Optional Practical Training (OPT). 

Quick Links

Why Clinical Research?

Clinical research professionals work in the medical device, biotech and pharmaceutical industries, in hospitals and clinics, at consulting organizations, in government and academia throughout the world.

• Clinical research professionals provide sound, scientific evidence about how a medical product performs in humans and ensure research is conducted ethically and lawfully.
• Well-designed, properly-executed clinical trials keys to success for most medical device companies and are critical to making safe and effective medical products. 
• Clinical research is an exciting, rewarding and in-demand profession. 

Admission Requirements and Details

When applying for a graduate program, the School of Graduate Studies serves as a liaison between the applicant and the program. Application materials should be sent to the School of Graduate Studies.

Once all application materials are received, Graduate Studies will forward materials to the program for review and an interview will be scheduled. Thereafter, an admission recommendation will be forwarded to Graduate Studies for a final decision and notification to the applicant.

For admission consideration, applicants must meet minimum  Graduate Studies admission requirements . The Graduate Record Exam (GRE) is not required , but an undergraduate degree in one of the following areas is recommended:

• Engineering
• Biochemistry
• Biostatistics
• Public health
• Another relevant field

Once you submit your application, email   [email protected]   so that your application can be tracked and fast-tracked.

Applied Clinical Research in Minnesota

employees in the greater Twin Cities area work in the medtech sector

Medtech employees earn on average 40% more than their counterparts in other industries

life science and medical companies operate in Minnesota

How to Start a Medical Courier Service: A Step-by-Step Guide

Are you interested in starting a medical courier service? Medical courier services are in high demand due to the need for fast and reliable transportation of sensitive medical materials, such as blood samples and organs for transplants. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on how to start a medical courier service in a step-by-step manner.

Understanding the Need for Medical Courier Services

Medical courier services play an essential role in the healthcare industry. The need for fast and reliable transportation of medical materials, such as biological specimens, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices, is crucial for timely and accurate diagnoses and treatments. Medical courier services also ensure the safety and security of sensitive medical materials during transport.

One of the key benefits of medical courier services is their ability to provide customized solutions to meet the unique needs of healthcare providers. For example, some medical courier services offer temperature-controlled transportation for materials that require specific temperature ranges to maintain their integrity. This is particularly important for materials like blood samples, which can be compromised if not transported under the right conditions.

Another advantage of medical courier services is their ability to provide real-time tracking and monitoring of medical materials during transport. This allows healthcare providers to have complete visibility into the location and status of their materials at all times, ensuring that they arrive at their destination on time and in good condition. Additionally, medical courier services often have specialized training and certifications to handle hazardous materials, ensuring that they are transported safely and in compliance with all relevant regulations.

Market Research: Identifying Your Target Customers and Competitors

Before starting a medical courier service, it is crucial to conduct market research to identify your target customers and competitors. Your target customers will include healthcare providers, clinics, hospitals, laboratories, and pharmacies that require transportation services for medical materials. Identifying your competitors will help you differentiate your services and pricing strategy in the market.

One important aspect of market research is understanding the demand for medical courier services in your area. You can gather this information by analyzing the number of healthcare facilities in your region and their transportation needs. Additionally, you can conduct surveys or focus groups with potential customers to understand their preferences and pain points when it comes to medical transportation.

Another factor to consider is the regulatory requirements for medical courier services. Depending on your location, you may need to obtain specific licenses or certifications to operate legally. It is important to research these requirements and ensure that your business complies with all necessary regulations.

Legal Requirements and Regulations for Operating a Medical Courier Service

Running a medical courier service is subject to legal requirements and regulations. You need to check with your state and local government agencies for licensing and regulatory requirements specific to your location. Federal regulations also apply to the transportation of medical materials, such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and the Department of Transportation regulations.

It is important to note that HIPAA regulations require that all medical materials be transported securely and confidentially. This means that medical couriers must take extra precautions to ensure that the materials they are transporting are not accessible to unauthorized individuals. Additionally, the Department of Transportation has specific regulations regarding the transportation of hazardous materials, such as certain medical supplies and equipment. It is important for medical courier services to be aware of and comply with these regulations to ensure the safety of their employees and the public.

Creating a Business Plan: Defining Your Services, Pricing, and Marketing Strategy

A well-defined business plan is essential for starting a successful medical courier service. You need to define your services, including the type of medical materials you will transport, delivery locations, and transportation methods. You also need to develop a pricing strategy that is competitive and profitable. Your marketing strategy should identify your target customers and the best ways to reach and engage them.

In addition to defining your services, pricing, and marketing strategy, it is important to consider the legal and regulatory requirements for operating a medical courier service. This may include obtaining necessary licenses and permits, complying with HIPAA regulations, and ensuring that your drivers are properly trained and certified to handle medical materials. It is also important to have a contingency plan in place for unexpected events, such as vehicle breakdowns or delays in delivery.

Essential Equipment and Supplies for Running a Successful Medical Courier Service

Equipping your medical courier service with the right tools and supplies is crucial for success. You need to have a reliable and efficient transportation system, such as a fleet of vehicles or access to a medical courier network. You also need to have equipment and supplies for handling medical materials, such as refrigerated storage, biohazard containers, and tracking systems.

In addition to transportation and handling equipment, it is important to have proper communication tools for your medical courier service. This includes a reliable phone system, email, and messaging platforms to ensure that you can communicate with clients and medical facilities in a timely and efficient manner.

Another important aspect of running a successful medical courier service is having a well-trained and knowledgeable staff. This includes drivers who are trained in handling medical materials, as well as customer service representatives who can effectively communicate with clients and medical facilities. Investing in staff training and development can help ensure that your medical courier service is providing the highest level of service possible.

Hiring and Training Staff: Qualifications, Skills, and Safety Training for Couriers

Hiring and training competent staff is crucial for the success and safety of your medical courier service. You need to identify the necessary qualifications and skills for your couriers, such as a valid driving license, clean driving record, and knowledge of handling medical materials. Safety training, including hazardous materials handling, biohazard precautions, and HIPAA compliance, is also necessary.

In addition to the necessary qualifications and skills, it is important to consider the personality traits of potential couriers. Couriers should be reliable, punctual, and have excellent communication skills. They should also be able to work well under pressure and be able to handle unexpected situations.

Once you have hired your couriers, ongoing training is essential to ensure they are up-to-date with the latest safety protocols and regulations. Regular refresher courses on handling hazardous materials and biohazard precautions should be provided. Additionally, training on customer service and professionalism can help to improve the overall experience for your clients.

Building Relationships with Healthcare Providers and Laboratories: Networking Strategies

Building strong relationships with healthcare providers and laboratories is critical for the success of your medical courier service. Effective networking strategies, such as attending industry events, joining healthcare associations, and leveraging social media platforms, can help you build and maintain relationships with your target customers.

One effective networking strategy is to offer value-added services to your healthcare provider and laboratory customers. For example, you could offer to provide additional training to their staff on how to properly package and transport medical specimens. This not only helps your customers improve their operations, but it also positions your courier service as a valuable partner in their success.

Another important aspect of building relationships with healthcare providers and laboratories is to consistently deliver high-quality service. This means ensuring that your couriers are well-trained, professional, and reliable. By consistently meeting or exceeding your customers’ expectations, you can build trust and loyalty, which are essential for long-term success in the medical courier industry.

Implementing Quality Control Procedures for Handling Sensitive Medical Materials

Implementing quality control procedures for handling sensitive medical materials is critical for the safety and security of your customers and your courier service. You need to establish and document procedures for handling, storing, and transporting medical materials according to regulatory and industry standards. You also need to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of these procedures regularly.

One important aspect of quality control procedures for handling sensitive medical materials is ensuring that all personnel involved in the process are properly trained and educated on the procedures. This includes training on proper handling techniques, safety protocols, and emergency response procedures. Regular training and refresher courses should be provided to ensure that all personnel are up-to-date on the latest procedures and regulations.

Another important consideration is the use of appropriate packaging and labeling for medical materials. Proper packaging and labeling can help prevent damage to the materials during transport and ensure that they are handled and stored correctly. It is important to use packaging and labeling that meets regulatory and industry standards, and to regularly review and update these standards as needed.

Managing Finances: Budgeting, Bookkeeping, and Tracking Expenses

Proper financial management is essential for the success of any business, including a medical courier service. You need to develop a budget and financial plan that considers your startup and ongoing expenses and revenue projections. You also need to maintain accurate bookkeeping and tracking of expenses, such as fuel costs, vehicle maintenance, and insurance premiums.

Scaling Your Business: Expanding Your Services and Target Markets

Scaling your medical courier service may involve expanding your services and target markets. You may want to consider adding new services, such as pharmaceutical delivery, home healthcare transport, or medical supply delivery. You may also want to target new geographies or customer segments, such as rural areas or specialty clinics.

Tips for Providing Excellent Customer Service in the Medical Courier Industry

Providing excellent customer service is key to retaining your customers and growing your medical courier service. You need to have a customer-centric approach, offering real-time tracking and communication, flexible delivery schedules, and personalized services. You also need to respond promptly to customer complaints and feedback.

Staying Up-to-Date with Industry Trends and Technological Advances in Medical Logistics

Staying up-to-date with industry trends and technological advances in medical logistics is essential for the competitiveness and innovation of your medical courier service. You need to continuously monitor and evaluate industry research and developments, such as new transportation methods, tracking systems, and regulatory changes.

Common Challenges Faced by Medical Courier Services and How to Overcome Them

Medical courier services face common challenges, such as increasing competition, rising fuel costs, and strict regulatory requirements. You need to develop strategies to overcome these challenges, such as diversifying your services, reducing expenses through efficient route planning and vehicle maintenance, and investing in new technologies.

Measuring Success: Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to Track in Your Medical Courier Business

Measuring the success and performance of your medical courier service is critical for identifying areas for improvement and making informed business decisions. You need to track key performance indicators (KPIs), such as on-time delivery rates, customer satisfaction scores, revenue and expense trends, and employee safety records.

Starting a medical courier service requires careful planning, preparation, and execution. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can build a successful and profitable medical courier service that meets the needs of your customers and the regulatory requirements of the industry.

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Texas lawmaker vows to ban medical research on unclaimed bodies after NBC News investigation

This article is part of “ Dealing the Dead,” a series investigating the use of unclaimed bodies for medical research.

A Texas state legislator is vowing to ban the use of unclaimed bodies for research in response to an NBC News investigation that found a local medical program obtained and studied hundreds of human specimens without families’ permission.

Sen. Tan Parker, a Republican whose district includes portions of Dallas and Tarrant counties, said he would introduce a bill in the legislative session in January to prohibit the use of people’s bodies unless they or their survivors give full consent.

Parker has sought in the past to crack down on the largely unregulated body broker industry. Still, he said he had no idea before seeing NBC News’ investigation that the Fort Worth-based University of North Texas Health Science Center had made money off of unclaimed bodies by dissecting them and leasing the parts to for-profit medical companies and other institutions, including the Army. Some of the people whose remains were used this way had families who were searching for them.

“I was outraged and completely just disgusted to see what had been occurring,” said Parker, noting that he fully supports the use of bodies to advance medicine, but only when the dead or their families give permission. “Human life is sacred and needs to always be protected, and that is a core principle to me.”

The Health Science Center did not comment on Parker’s plans for legislation. In a statement Thursday, university spokesperson Andy North said the center “fell short of the standards of respect, care and professionalism that we demand.”

A half-century ago, U.S. medical schools routinely used unclaimed bodies for research and training, and doing so remains legal in most of the country, including Texas. But some states — and many body-donation programs — have halted the practice to reflect changes in medical ethics that demand doctors and scientists handle bodies with the same respect shown to living patients.

Officials in North Texas justified sending unclaimed bodies — those without families who could afford to make funeral arrangements or whose families could not be reached — to the Health Science Center by saying the deals saved local governments on burial and cremation costs, helped train physicians and aided lifesaving research. However, NBC News found repeated failures by death investigators in Dallas and Tarrant counties and by the Health Science Center to contact relatives who were reachable before declaring the bodies unclaimed.

The reporting prompted immediate changes, along with public outrage and shocked responses from federal, state and local government officials. The Health Science Center suspended its body-donation program, fired the officials who led it and said it would stop accepting unclaimed bodies . Some medical device and research companies, as well as the Army, said they were rethinking their arrangements with the center and planned to examine their own internal policies to ensure they don’t use unclaimed bodies in the future.

Alisa Simmons, a member of the Tarrant County Commissioners Court, said she will push the board to adopt new policies to ensure the ethical and respectful treatment of the unclaimed dead. Dallas County officials have said moving forward they won’t provide unclaimed bodies for research unless survivors choose to do so.

For some families, those promises have helped soothe their pain, but they said they remain traumatized by what happened to their dead relatives.

“It infuriates me, the total disrespect,” said Brenda Cloud, sister of Victor Honey.

Honey, 58, a homeless Army veteran with mental illness, was dissected and leased to two medical companies and the Army after his death in 2022. His family members did not know until NBC News informed them this spring. In June, they buried Honey’s cremated remains at the Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery, among thousands of other military service members.

Cloud said she feels some relief knowing that the Health Science Center has stopped obtaining unclaimed bodies, but she wants more to be done to prevent others from going through what her family endured.

“Now that people have an awareness of what’s going on, we can look at laws being changed,” Cloud said. “Still, there is no law, nothing, that will fix what happened.”

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, which helped arrange Honey’s June burial, expressed sympathy for what happened to him.

“We were extremely saddened to hear of his and his family’s story,” Terrence Hayes, a VA spokesperson, said in a statement. “Mr. Honey, like all Veterans who have served our nation with courage and honor, deserved a dignified burial at the time of his passing.”

The Rev. Al Sharpton, who hosts MSNBC’s “PoliticsNation” and has previously condemned failures by Mississippi officials to notify families before declaring bodies unclaimed , said the Health Science Center’s activities were “a civil rights issue” that deserved government intervention.

“What you’re doing is robbing their families and loved ones and the person of their human dignity and of their rights to make a decision over their loved ones,” Sharpton said in an interview.

Some officials and medical experts reacted to NBC News’ findings by calling for federal changes. Thomas Champney, an anatomy professor at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine who researches the ethical use of human bodies, said he hoped Congress would take action.

“This should not occur anywhere within the United States,” Champney said.

Eli Shupe, a bioethicist at the University of Texas at Arlington who for years tried unsuccessfully to dissuade Tarrant County officials from providing unclaimed bodies to the University of North Texas Health Science Center, said her state now has an opportunity to set a new national standard.

“This isn’t just a good step forward for Texas, but it could be a model for other medical schools, other counties, other states,” Shupe said, referring to Parker’s promise to end the use of unclaimed bodies.

Louisa Harvey, whose fiancé, Michael Coleman, 43, was sent to the Health Science Center even as she reported him missing and searched for him, said she was glad to see the cascade of changes and promises of reforms.

“There’s no justice for Michael or the families that have already been affected, but it’s a good thing if it can keep it from happening to anyone else,” Harvey said.

Harvey said she wanted more from the Health Science Center, whose officials apologized for the program’s failures in a statement posted to its website but hadn't spoken to Coleman's or Honey's loved ones.

“That sounds like something you say just because you got caught,” Harvey said of the center’s statement.

After NBC News shared Harvey’s comments, North, the Health Science Center spokesperson, said officials had been “working to connect with families to extend our deepest apologies.”

In the meantime, Harvey said she’s been haunted by nightmares for months and still has no confidence that the box on her nightstand actually contains Coleman’s ashes.

“This is something,” she said, “I wouldn’t wish on my worst enemy.”

Jon Schuppe is an enterprise reporter for NBC News, based in New York.

Mike Hixenbaugh is a senior investigative reporter for NBC News, based in Maryland, and author of "They Came for the Schools."