About the Profession

What is Pathology

Pathology is a branch of medical science that investigates the causes, nature, and effects of diseases. It involves the comprehensive study of tissues, organs, and bodily fluids to understand disease processes, identify abnormalities, and provide diagnostic information. Medical scientists analyse samples obtained from biopsies, autopsies, and other medical procedures to help guide patient care and contribute to medical research. They play a crucial role in diagnosing diseases, monitoring treatment effectiveness, and contributing to the broader understanding of medical conditions.

How to become a Medical Scientist?

  1. Obtain a Relevant Degree: Complete an undergraduate or postgraduate degree in Medical Laboratory Science, ideally from an accredited program. In Australia, programs in medical laboratory science are accredited by the Australian Institute of Medical and Clinical Scientists (AIMS). AIMS is the leading professional body representing medical scientists working in medical laboratories across Australia.
  2. Once you complete an AIMS accredited program in Medical Laboratory Science, you will be eligible for Graduate membership of AIMS. More information can be found here:  AIMS Membership Options
  3. After completing your degree and gaining 1-2 years of medical laboratory experience, you will be eligible for full membership with the Australian Institute of Medical and Clinical Scientists (AIMS), designated as MAIMS. While full membership or graduate membership with AIMS is not a mandatory requirement for employment in a pathology lab, graduates from AIMS-accredited programs are highly sought after.

This is a simplified workflow of how to become a medical scientist.

Where do Medical Scientists work?

In Australia, medical scientists work in a variety of settings that support healthcare, research, and public health. Here’s an overview of where medical scientists commonly work in Australia:

Public and Private Hospitals

Roles: Perform diagnostic tests, conduct research, and support clinical care across departments such as hematology, microbiology, and biochemistry.

Examples: Major hospitals like Royal Melbourne Hospital, Westmead Hospital, and private hospitals like Ramsay Health Care facilities.

Clinical Laboratories

Roles: Conduct routine and specialized testing, manage laboratory operations, and ensure quality control.

Examples: Labs operated by companies like Sullivan Nicolaides Pathology and Australian Clinical Labs.

Public Health Laboratories

Roles: Analyse samples for public health surveillance, monitor disease outbreaks, and conduct epidemiological research.

Examples: Labs operated by the Victorian Department of Health, Queensland Health Forensic and Scientific Services, and NSW Health Pathology.

Research Institutions and Universities

Roles: Engage in biomedical research, develop new diagnostic methods, and contribute to academic publications.

Examples: Institutions like the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, and universities such as Charles Sturt University.

Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Companies

Roles: Work on drug development, clinical trials, and research into new technologies and therapies.

Examples: Companies like CSL Limited, Biota Pharmaceuticals, and Medibio.

Forensic Laboratories

Roles: Analyse forensic evidence related to criminal investigations, including DNA and toxicology testing.

Examples: Forensic labs operated by organizations like the Australian Federal Police (AFP) and state-based forensic services.

Veterinary Laboratories

Roles: Conduct diagnostic testing on animal samples and support veterinary research.

Examples: Work in labs associated with veterinary schools or private veterinary diagnostic services.

Government Agencies and Regulatory Bodies

Roles: Work on health policy development, regulatory compliance, and laboratory standards.

Examples: Australian Government Department of Health, Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), and National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC).

Consulting Firms

Roles: Provide expert consultancy services on laboratory practices, diagnostics, and research.

Examples: Consulting firms that offer services to healthcare providers, research institutions, and laboratories.