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C a r e e r s i n H e a lt h C a r e 75 infectious substances. They assist in the development of vaccines, medicines, and treatments for diseases; evaluate the relationships between organisms and the environment; and administer programs for testing food and drugs. Some work on isolating and identifying genes associated with specific diseases or inherited traits, and perform research to correct genetic defects. Some specialties include: • Biochemists: study the chemical composition of living things • Microbiologists: investigate the growth and characteristics of microscopic organisms • Physiologists: study the life functions of plants and animals • Forensic scientists: study cells, fibers, and other evidence to obtain information about a crime • Biophysicists: study the response and interrelationship of living cells and organisms to the principles of physics, such as electrical or mechanical energy Most biological or medical scientists use research associates and assistants. These associates or assistants must have high-level math and science skills, computer technology proficiency, effective written and oral communication skills, knowledge of aseptic techniques, and laboratory skills. Biotechnological engineers (bioengineers) use engineering knowledge to develop solutions to complex medical problems. They develop devices such as cardiac pacemakers, blood oxygenators, and defibrillators that aid in the diagnosis and treatment of disease; research various metals and other biomaterials to determine which can be used as implants in the human body; design and construct artificial organs, such as hip replacements, kidneys, heart valves, and artificial hearts; and research the biomechanics of injury and wound healing. Biological technicians, working under the supervision of biological scientists or biotechnological engineers, assist in the study of living organisms. They perform many of the laboratory experiments used in medical research on diseases such as cancer and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). They also assist in the development, testing, and manufacturing of pharmaceuticals or medications (Figure 3-23). Biological technicians must be proficient in the use of clinical laboratory equipment and computers. They must also be adept at compiling statistics and preparing research reports to document experiments. Process technicians, also called chemical technicians, working under the supervision of biological scientists or research physicians, operate and monitor the machinery that is used to produce biotechnology products. They may install new equipment, monitor the operating processes of the equipment, assess quality control of the finished product, and enforce environmental and Figure 3-23 Biological technicians perform many of the laboratory experiments used for medical research. Courtesy CDC/James Gathany safety regulations. For example, a process technician manufacturing drugs for a pharmaceutical company may prepare and measure raw materials, load the raw materials into the machinery, set the controls, operate the machinery, take test samples for quality control, and record required information. Process technicians must use aseptic techniques and follow all safety and environmental regulations during the manufacturing process. Forensic science technicians, also called criminalists, investigate crimes by collecting and analyzing physical evidence. Examples of physical evidence include weapons, clothing, shoes, fibers, hair, body tissues, blood, body fluids, fingerprints, chemicals, and even vapors in the air. After the physical evidence is analyzed and preserved, the forensic science technician works with other investigative officers such as police detectives to reconstruct a crime scene and find the individual who committed the crime. Forensic science technicians must be proficient in the use of laboratory equipment and computers. They must also be adept at preparing reports, compiling statistics, and testifying in trials or hearings.