Biomedical vs Biotechnology Engineering: What’s the Difference?

Author: University of North Dakota
April 23, 2024

Imagine a world where diseases run rampant without effective treatments, where crops struggle to grow without resilience against pests and harsh environments and where life-altering injuries remain untreated due to the absence of prosthetic limbs or advanced surgical techniques.

This stark portrayal highlights the critical importance of biotechnology and biomedical engineering in our modern world. 

However, while these fields share the common goal of improving human health and well-being, they each offer distinct approaches and applications. To make an informed decision between biotechnology and biomedical engineering, it's essential to thoroughly understand both fields. So, read on as we explore the intricacies of these two disciplines, as well as their similarities, differences and unique contributions to society.

What is Biotechnology?

Biotechnology is a field that utilizes living organisms, cells and biological systems to develop a wide range of products and technologies that enhance human life. It spans various industries, including healthcare, agriculture, pharmaceuticals and environmental conservation.

By incorporating principles from biology, physics, chemistry, mathematics and technology, modern biotechnology continues to make significant contributions to society. It helps extend human lifespans, fights diseases, increases crop yields and reduces greenhouse gas emissions through the use of biofuels.

What is Biomedical Engineering?

Biomedical engineering is a specialized discipline within engineering that bridges the gap between engineering principles and the medical field. Engineers in this field develop innovative medical devices, such as prosthetics and medical imaging technologies, to improve patient care and treatment outcomes. 

Beyond device development, biomedical engineers investigate the body's reaction to various external pressures—from automotive accidents to athletic impacts—leveraging this knowledge to improve protective gear and strategies for preventing injuries.

What is the Difference Between Biotechnology and Biomedical Engineering?

Now that we've outlined some general definitions of biomedical engineering and biotechnology and identified their focal points let's compare the two, beginning with the educational prerequisites and extending to the job prospects and expected salaries in each field.

Education

Biotechnology requires a strong educational foundation in the life sciences and related fields. A bachelor's degree in biotechnology, biology, biochemistry, molecular biology or a related discipline is often required to enter the field. Coursework typically covers topics such as genetics, cell biology, microbiology, bioinformatics and bioprocessing techniques. Additionally, obtaining hands-on laboratory experience through internships or research opportunities can be highly beneficial for gaining practical skills and enhancing employability. 

Graduates with a bachelor's degree may qualify for entry-level positions in biotechnology companies, research laboratories, pharmaceutical companies or government agencies. For those aspiring to advance their career in biotechnology or pursue more specialized roles, obtaining a graduate degree is often necessary. 

A master's degree in biotechnology, molecular biology or a related field can provide the required knowledge and research experience for higher-level positions or leadership roles within the industry. Some may even obtain a Ph.D. in biotechnology or a related discipline to delve into advanced research topics, contribute to scientific discoveries and pursue academic or research-oriented careers.

Similarly, a career in biomedical engineering requires a solid educational background in engineering, particularly in biomedical engineering or a related field such as mechanical engineering, electrical engineering or bioengineering. Many biomedical engineers hold a bachelor's in Biomedical Engineering, which covers coursework in biology, physiology, biomaterials, biomechanics, medical imaging and signal processing.

Graduate education is also common in biomedical engineering, with many professionals pursuing master's or Ph.D. degrees to advance their careers. A Biomedical Engineering master’s can provide specialization in areas such as medical device design, tissue engineering or biomedical imaging, while a Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering offers opportunities for original research and specialization in a specific area of interest.

Skill Set Requirements

To succeed in biotechnology, you need the following skills:

• Proficiency in molecular biology techniques such as DNA sequencing and PCR
• Expertise in genetic engineering required to modify DNA sequences
• Knowledge in bioinformatics for analyzing biological data using computational tools
• Laboratory skills for culturing and manipulating cells
• Problem-solving abilities, critical thinking and innovation for developing new biotechnological products and processes

On the other hand, biomedical engineering requires:

• Strong foundation in anatomy, physiology and materials science
• Proficiency in biomedical instrumentation for designing and utilizing medical equipment
• Creativity in generating innovative solutions for healthcare challenges
• Attention to detail to ensure the accuracy and safety of medical devices
• Understanding of regulatory standards governing the development and commercialization of medical technologies

Job Responsibilities

Professionals in biotechnology are tasked with a range of responsibilities to advance scientific discoveries and develop innovative products. This may include:

• Developing pharmaceutical drugs, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), biofuels or bioremediation techniques to address various societal needs
• Conducting research and development activities to explore new biotechnological applications and improve existing processes
• Ensuring quality control and compliance with laws and regulations throughout the production process
• Contributing to the advancement of knowledge in biotechnology through publications, presentations and participation in scientific conferences

Biomedical engineers also play a crucial role in the healthcare industry and their responsibilities usually include:

• Designing and developing medical devices, diagnostic tools and therapeutic techniques to address medical challenges and improve patient outcomes
• Conducting product testing and validation to ensure the safety, efficacy and reliability of medical devices before market release
• Collaborating with healthcare professionals, including physicians, surgeons and therapists, to understand clinical needs and develop innovative solutions
• Ensuring regulatory compliance by adhering to applicable laws, standards and regulations governing the design and manufacture of medical devices

Work Environment

In biotechnology, professionals can work in various environments, such as biotechnology companies, pharmaceutical firms, agricultural biotech companies, research laboratories and government agencies. They may also explore opportunities for entrepreneurship and innovation within biotechnology startups. 

Conversely, biomedical engineers typically find themselves in hospitals, medical device companies, research institutions and regulatory agencies, where they collaborate with healthcare professionals, scientists, engineers and regulatory experts to develop and implement medical devices and technologies. This collaborative nature highlights the importance of interdisciplinary teamwork in advancing healthcare and medical technology.

Job Outlook and Salary

Both biotechnology and biomedical engineering are expected to experience a 5% growth rate from 2022 to 2032, which is faster than the average for all occupations. However, there are notable differences in the projected number of openings per year, with about 10,600 openings for biotechnology professionals compared to approximately 1,200 openings for bioengineers and biomedical engineers over the decade. 

The demand for biological technicians is anticipated to rise due to the increasing need for biological and medical research, particularly in emerging fields like synthetic biology and biotechnology research and development projects. Meanwhile, the employment growth of biomedical engineers is expected to be driven by the rising demand for biomedical devices and procedures and increased public awareness of medical advances.

Regarding salary, biomedical engineers command a higher median annual wage of $108,060 compared to the average salary of $87,387 for biotechnology jobs. These figures underscore the lucrative nature of careers in these fields, highlighting both as attractive options for those interested in science and engineering careers with a direct impact on health and society.

Biotechnology vs. Biomedical Engineering: Which One is Right for You?

Deciding between biotechnology and biomedical engineering should be easier now that you have a better understanding of what these two fields entail as well as the differences between them. So, all you have to do is carefully consider how each field aligns with your personal interests, career goals and preferred work environments. 

For example, if you are passionate about working with living organisms and biological systems, then biotechnology might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, biomedical engineering could be a better fit if you are more interested in applying engineering principles to design medical devices and improve healthcare outcomes.

Additionally, evaluate your career goals and desired work environments to make an informed decision. If you envision yourself working in pharmaceuticals, agricultural biotech companies or research laboratories, biotechnology may more closely align with your aspirations. Conversely, if you aspire to work in hospitals, medical device companies or research institutions focused on healthcare and medical technology development, biomedical engineering might be the preferred path.

Consider exploring coursework, internships and networking opportunities in both fields to gain insights into potential career paths. Hands-on experiences and connecting with professionals in the field can provide valuable guidance and help you determine which field best aligns with your interests and goals.

Conclusion

Both biomedical engineering and biotechnology offer boundless opportunities to shape the future of healthcare, technology and beyond. Whether your passion lies in developing life-saving medical devices or harnessing the power of living organisms to address pressing global challenges, these fields promise fulfilling and impactful careers. 

If you're ready to pursue one of these careers rooted in discovery and innovation, consider exploring the educational offerings available at the University of North Dakota. From undergraduate degrees to advanced programs like accelerated degrees and specialized minors, UND provides a rich academic environment to nurture your aspirations in biomedical engineering and biotechnology. 

Look into our comprehensive range of programs, including the Biomedical Engineering minor and B.S. with a major in Molecular and Integrative Biology and take the first step toward a rewarding career at the forefront of scientific advancement.

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