It's not just about lab results - it's about people

With the establishment of the new degree programme in Biomedical Sciences at the Pinkafeld campus, Maria Bemelmans, Head of the degree programme at Burgenland University of Applied Sciences, is opening a whole new chapter in her professional life - one that she herself is playing a key role in shaping. "It's a rare opportunity to really rethink a degree programme from the ground up - in terms of content, personnel and organisation. "I never just wanted to teach - I wanted to build something that was sustainable."

Maria was born and grew up in Graz. She studied for a Bachelor's degree in Biomedical Analysis at the FH Joanneum in Graz and went on to complete a Master's degree in Biomedical Analysis at the FH Campus Wien. Her path into teaching was by no means predetermined. After years in diagnostics and research at the University Clinic for Blood Group Serology and Transfusion Medicine in Graz and an early start in functional diagnostics practice at Vienna General Hospital, she developed the desire to pass on her own knowledge. "I wanted to inspire students for the profession that fascinates me so much - with its versatility, its relevance and its medical-technical and human challenges."

A degree programme designed differently from the outset

What makes the new degree programme in Biomedical Sciences at the Pinkafeld campus special? "We are actually starting on a greenfield site - without legacy issues, without rigid structures." The small group sizes, close contact with lecturers and interprofessional collaboration with other healthcare degree programmes are key elements of the concept. The aim is to provide training that is not only of high quality, but also maximises practical relevance - through individual guidance, diagnostic case studies and laboratories with state-of-the-art equipment.

A profession that is evolving

The demands on the profession of biomedical analyst are changing rapidly: automation, digitalisation and new diagnostic methods require more than traditional laboratory skills. "Biomedical scientists today are highly qualified interface workers - they have to reconcile technology, data, diagnostics and responsibility."

This is why the degree programme also focuses on quality management and offers elective options in forward-looking areas such as mass spectrometry and molecular pathology - in close cooperation with FH Joanneum and MedUni Graz. Interdisciplinary teaching formats also promote the ability to work in teams - a key skill in today's healthcare sector.

Teaching at eye level

When working with students, Maria favours openness, authenticity and a genuine connection to professional practice.

What is particularly important to her when working with colleagues? "An appreciative, honest approach and the willingness to learn from each other."

Looking to the future

Born in Graz, she sees the degree programme as a dynamic system: "We don't just develop young specialists - we are also constantly developing ourselves." Whether molecular diagnostics, AI in microscopy or new teaching methods: The future has only just begun in Pinkafeld.

Wanted: bright minds with a practical drive

Anyone interested in the degree programme should have an interest in science, team spirit and a willingness to be a lifelong learner. And a good sense of precision. "Working as a BMA requires responsibility, diligence and an understanding of medical technology - which is exactly what makes it so fulfilling."

There are still places available on the waiting list for our Bachelor's degree programme in Biomedical Sciences. You can find more information and how to apply here.