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How can an undergraduate in Biomedical Engineering build a strong research trajectory early on, and what mistakes should I avoid / opportunities should I seek as I prepare for a career in biomedical R&D?
I am a third year Biomedical engineering undergraduate, studying at the University of Texas at San Antonio. I have two more years remaining in my program before I graduate. I currently volunteer in a cardiac device innovation lab, assisting graduate students in research regarding imaging of coronary arteries. Eventually I hope to be involved in medical device innovation. What steps should I take now to become a competitive researcher?
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Teklemuz Ayenew Tesfay
Electrical Engineer, Software Developer, and Career Mentor
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To boost your career path, try taking charge of a small project where you can use skills like coding, image processing, CAD, and basic machine learning. Get involved in research projects at your school and keep volunteering in roles that match your career goals, whether in a lab, local group, or hospital. Create a portfolio that highlights your research, coding, and design work, and build relationships with mentors who can guide you. Shadowing medical professionals and joining summer programs like NSF REUs, NIH internships, or virtual internships with companies such as Medtronic or Abbott can offer great training and early industry experience.
If you're interested in medical device innovation, gain practical experience by joining design teams, entering competitions like BMES or Rice 360° Design Competitions, and participating in healthcare hackathons. Connect with industry professionals on LinkedIn, join professional groups, and attend conferences and meetups. By focusing on developing skills, leading projects, gaining research experience, volunteering, and networking, you'll build a strong foundation and set yourself up for success in biomedical research and development.
If you're interested in medical device innovation, gain practical experience by joining design teams, entering competitions like BMES or Rice 360° Design Competitions, and participating in healthcare hackathons. Connect with industry professionals on LinkedIn, join professional groups, and attend conferences and meetups. By focusing on developing skills, leading projects, gaining research experience, volunteering, and networking, you'll build a strong foundation and set yourself up for success in biomedical research and development.
Thank you so much, Teklemuz Ayenew!