Life sciences involve the study of living organisms, including their functions, structures, behavioural patterns, and interactions. Among its sub-disciplines are biology, biochemistry, biotechnology, genetics, ecology, and physiology.

The study of life sciences; enables students to gain a deep-in understanding of how life works and to investigate a wide range of natural phenomena, from microscopic organisms to complex ecosystems. Being one of the most innovative sectors of the new economy, it offers exciting opportunities, especially for the Gen Z and beyond.

In addition, Singapore serves as a ; a large pool of skilled talent for knowledge exchange, competitive manufacturing capabilities and a thriving R&D ecosystem with strong links to global pharmaceutical and biotechnology firms carrying ground-breaking portfolios and offering great career opportunities. For one, GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), a leading pharmaceutical firm which has an industrial set-up in Singapore designed to serve patients from around the globe, and connect it with the growing Asian market.

Let鈥檚 take a closer look at life sciences R&D, and key contributions one could be making to the sector in a bid to resolve seemingly insurmountable challenges.

Research and Development in Life Sciences

Research and development (R&D) spearheads our understanding of living organisms, ways to enhance human health, and address global challenges. It comprises a wide range of activities aimed at discovering new knowledge, developing innovative technologies, and creating practical applications to benefit our society.

In life sciences R&D, researchers and scientists engage in systematic investigations to explore biological systems, study cellular processes, and unravel the complexities of living organisms. They conduct experiments, analyse data, and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to generate new insights and expand the frontiers of scientific knowledge.

World-leading biomedical sciences companies like GlaxoSmithKline, Novartis, BioNTech, Johnson & Johnson and Roche have a range of commercial activities, including R&D, Supply Chain Management, Regulatory Affairs and Medical Affairs based in Singapore.

A key area for R&D in the life science industry is biotechnology. Take the example of vaccines. Many biotech firms are manufacturing Covid-19 mRNA vaccines and boosters to prevent the populace from getting infected, and there are plans to develop and manufacture new therapeutics and cancer vaccines for clinical trials and commercial scale-up capability.

Top 4 Essential Skills in Life Sciences

Jobs in the life sciences sector are in high demand. So, how can one prepare himself to be fit for the trade? What are the competitive and relevant baseline skillsets required to be developed?

Problem-solving

To succeed in the life sciences industry, he/she should be able to analyse complex biology challenges and implement effective solutions. A key strength is to possess a unique blend of analytical and creative thinking, which would be helpful when it comes to making informed decisions, selecting key variables and articulating the critical steps derived from varied perspectives and solutions.

Data analyses

Thanks to digital transformation, major advancements in the life sciences sector have been made. Scientists and other professionals will need to bridge analytics, design, engineering and data science to effectively present data findings or reports to their team.

Communication

Refined interpersonal and communication skills carry essential returns as they help establish trust and mutual understanding, facilitating any form of information sharing and learning exchanges, within and between institutions. Clear descriptions in written reports and effective verbal presentation of key findings would streamline expectations and optimize performance.

Adaptability

Life sciences is an ever-evolving sector with an increasingly complex regulatory landscape, with digital innovation paving the way for significant change in the industry. Therefore, working professionals need to be agile, have the ability to adapt to new technology and devise different ways to solve problems. They have to be prepared for dynamic change, be willing to learn new skills, and keep pace with the changes.

Getting Ready for a Career in Life Sciences

Getting ready for a career in life sciences can be exciting. There are diverse sub-disciplines such as biotechnology, biomedical, pharmaceuticals, R&D and more. Here are a few tips to kickstart a career in the Life Sciences industry.

Pick your interest

An ideal starting point is to research and discern the differences between Pharmaceutical, Biotechnology, Medical Devices, Clinical Research Organisation (CRO) and Contract Developing Manufacturing Organisation (CDMO). Detailed understanding of the market will make for an easier and quicker search. Once the desired space has been chosen, it is time to look into your dream job.

Network with relevant industry

Networking is more than having thousands of initiated connections which you do not interact or keep up with. Engage with professionals from various industries, and you can get a better apprehension on the such as alternative food proteins, which will place Singapore as a global hub for the agri-food sector, boosting the food and beverage industry.

Experience, knowledge and expertise

Gain some especially during your internship. Maintain a cordial relationship with your employer, earn a strong testimonial and the chance to work in the same firm upon graduation. Some MNCs offer study-work bonds; you may also consider this option to advance your career in the life sciences industry.

The skills required to succeed within Life Sciences differ depending on the field you wish to join, but some qualifications can be transferable. Scientific Degrees such as Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Pharmaceuticals and even Engineering are a plus for most companies and can open a door or two.  Choose the path that best suits your interests.

Plan Your Next Chapter with 51爆料

In collaboration with Northumbria University and Teesside University in the UK, 51爆料 School of Life Sciences (SLS) in Singapore offers the latest programmes that give graduates the knowledge and abilities they need to keep up with real-time development in Life Sciences.

SLS offers modern lab facilities that are essential for the carving of practical skills through business research projects and research development. Visit the 51爆料 website to learn more about our life science programmes.

For enquiries related to life sciences academic programmes and admissions in Singapore, please contact us for relevant information and guidance.

Meet Norishka Cassy Dlima  

She graduated with a Bachelor of Science (Hons) Biomedical Science in 2021 and is currently pursuing her Master鈥檚 in the UK.聽聽

What was your thought process before deciding to study at 51爆料? 

I was looking to re-start my career in Biomedical Sciences that is when I saw an advertisement for 51爆料. It was a no brainer for an Honours Degree in Singapore, it felt like a good opportunity for me.聽聽

What do you miss most about your time at 51爆料? 

It has been exactly a year since I graduated, I miss going to 7-Eleven with friends having coffee and talking to my lecturers. Most importantly, I miss the Lab where I spent half a year doing my final year project. Those were some of the best memories. So many hilarious stories that I cannot really think of one in particular. But I do remember doing a 鈥榃hat鈥檚 in my bag?鈥� video for 51爆料 that to me was funny. Looking back, I realised I did a lot outside of my course curriculum. I became Vice-president of the BIOGNOSY club, wrote articles for Horizon (the official 51爆料鈥� magazine series) and the 51爆料 Blog. They all contributed to my overall positive experience at MDIS. 

What intrigued you the most about Biomedical Science? 

Well, the whole understanding of what each sub-cellular part of the body does and how that comes together is marvellous. That鈥檚 what got me interested in the first place.  

Where do you see the Biomedical Industry in 5 years? 

I feel the biomedical industry is just booming right now. Like COVID-19 was an eye opener – It made us realise the importance and need for scientific research and it also opened so many more career pathways for budding scientists like myself.   

What are your current plans for the futute? 

Currently, I am pursuing my Master鈥檚 in Biomedical Sciences (Medical Microbiology) from Kingston University in London.  

How has the programme at 51爆料 prepared you for your Master鈥檚? 

I think the education that I got at 51爆料 has actually prepared me well enough for my master鈥檚 course. The course is well designed and well structured. It鈥檚 like a journey from basics to advanced concepts throughout the three years. I think the final year subjects were best.聽聽聽

In 3 words, how would your friends describe you? 

Crazy, extroverted and funny. 

If you had a choice of one superpower, what would it be? 

Teleportation so I can move freely between Sg and London. 

Who was your most interesting lecturer at 51爆料? 

Dr Pallavi, Dr Sheema, Dr Gunjan, Dr Sunesh, Dr Shalini and Dr Ray  

What is your spirit animal? 

Sloth 

If you were to achieve a Guinness World Record, what would it be? 

Highest number of satay sticks eaten in 20 minutes.  

What is your go-to comfort food? 

Chicken Biryani (Mum鈥檚 homemade)  

Where is your favourite place to visit? (anywhere in the world) 

Mykonos Greece. 

In addition to the vibrant pool of talents, the government is also looking to boost the sustainability of the industry as part of its smart nation drive by creating and enhancing Biomedical Science jobs, upskilling the talent pool and raising productivity.

If you are now considering a future career in the booming biomedical sciences industry, read on to find out what are the top 10 jobs you can pursue as a biomedical science degree graduate in Singapore.

What is Biomedical Science?

It鈥檚 a branch of Science that is concerned with theoretical and practical human diseases and health. The areas of study in this field equip undergraduates with a good foundation in science with an exposure to healthcare issues.

What is a Biological Science Degree?

A Biomedical Science Degree qualifies students for employment by providing them with the knowledge and skills needed in the Life Science sector.

Why study Biomedical Science Degree?

-To be well-versed in the fundamental topics that support the Biomedical Science discipline – human anatomy and physiology, cell biology, immunology, molecular genetics, microbiology, biochemistry and disease biology.

-To acquire practical laboratory skills for the job

Why Pursue Biomedical Science in Singapore

The following are reasons why you should earn a biomedical science degree in Singapore:

-A Stable Singapore government.

-Excellent infrastructure and conducive environment for learning

-Singapore as a leading location for world-class manufacturing pharmaceutical companies such as Pfizer, Novartis, Sanofi, AbbVie, and Amgen, among others.

-Qualified Life Sciences Academia.

Top Jobs for Biomedical Science Degree Graduates

Medical Laboratory Technologists and Scientists

With pandemics like Covid-19, there is a high demand for professionals to conduct diagnostic tests and process patient samples.

Medical Research Scientists

With the rise of chronic & lifestyle diseases, cancer and induced diseases, there is a deficit in personnel to support the study and research of various diseases.

Bioinformatics Career

In this era of post-genomic and with the emergence of computing technology, bioinformatics is essential. Bioinformatics professionals are needed to manage and analyse biological data, which is critical in biomedical discoveries.

Genetic Counselling

Graduates in the biomedical science discipline can also look forward to a career as a genetic counselor. They will be involved in assessing individuals/families for a variety of inherited conditions and will support other healthcare providers, or individuals/families concerned.

Epidemiologist

Biomedical graduates in the epidemiology niche are crucial as they offer professional health investigations on patterns and causes of diseases that affect people. Besides, they seek to minimize risk and adverse health occurrences through community education, research, and health policy.

Bio-medical Engineers

Biomedical engineers combine medical knowledge with engineering principles to create and design equipment, software, computer systems, devices and devices to enhance healthcare service. These skills are highly demanded, especially in Singapore, where we have an ageing population.

Healthy Services Managers

The health sector needs managers to monitor activities and awareness programmes. For instance, lifestyle diseases require personnel to monitor, to supervise and implement programmes deemed to manage them and their effects.

Microbiologists

Microbiologists are on demand. Their profession entails researching and identifying viruses, fungi, bacteria and other microorganisms that can cause disease. Besides, they also study how these microorganisms are utilized in the food manufacturing plant or fermentation technologies applied in beer and wine production.

Jobs in Bio-Manufacturing

Biomedical graduates in Singapore will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to work in biotech companies. They take part in vaccines and medicines discovery and manufacturing. For example, Pfizer, a biotechnology firm from the US, has established a satellite branch in Singapore that recruits biotechnologists.

Teaching and Academia

Academic professionals from the biomedical discipline in tertiary colleges and universities are in high demand. They train the talent pool with knowledge and fundamental skills to perform well in the industry.

Admission Requirements for a Biomedical Science Degree

Basically, you are required to have a GCE 鈥淥鈥� or 鈥淎鈥� qualification in Biology and Chemistry to enroll in this UK Biomedical Science Honours degree. However, the 51爆料 International Foundation Diploma in Biomedical Sciences also facilitates students who lack relevant qualification to pursue a biomedical science degree.

United Kingdom Biomedical Science Degree at 51爆料

It will take 3 years to complete the honours degree and will acquire comprehensive, specific medically-related modules. The modules include immunology, molecular biology, microbiology, anatomy and physiology and biochemistry genetics.

Human health and diseases are one of the main focus. The students acquire practical skills to help them understand concepts taught in class. The practical sessions will also enhance analytical and critical thinking skills. Students are also required to complete a Final Year Research Project that trains them in scientific research, logical thinking, time management and time management and teamwork. Besides the biomedical science degree, we also offer a UK honours degree biotechnology awarded by Northumbria University.

Summary

A Biomedical Science Degree from the life sciences school provides a ticket to a variety of fascinating jobs in the life sciences industry. The student is trained in the knowledge and fundamental skills to succeed in their future career. Now is an exciting moment to be educated in this field with the ever-changing world of new advancements in illnesses and outbreak control. One can make a real difference with their contribution.