A career at the intersection of computer science and health sciences offers a unique opportunity to make a positive impact on the world by enabling better health outcomes.
Technologists shape healthcare in countless ways. For example, their work in developing Electronic Health Records and remote telehealth technologies is revolutionizing how healthcare is managed and accessed. Technologists also engineer advanced medical devices and equipment, which are critical in both diagnostics and treatment.
Computer scientists also contribute to major breakthroughs in medical research. For example, researchers at Harvard and MIT harnessed Artificial Intelligence (AI) to discover a new class of antibiotics, a groundbreaking achievement that marked the first discovery of its kind in over six decades. Similarly, using artificial intelligence and machine learning in areas like diagnostics and robotic-assisted surgeries is transforming patient care.
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Future Ready Careers: CS + Health Services
Hear from Merck Chief Information and Digital Officer Dave Williams as he shares about his experience at the intersection of computer science and health services. How does Merck use the power of leading-edge science to save and improve lives around the world? By using research and technology to deliver innovative health solutions that advance the prevention and treatment of diseases in people and animals. Computer science skills and computational thinking skills are important in solving problems and delivering health service to all. Hear how students can utilize these skills for a fulfilling and meaningful career after graduation. Originally aired on May 24, 2022.
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CS + Medical Devices
This webinar explores the world of medical devices–like wearable diabetes management tools–to showcase how you can be part of the technological transformation in healthcare. Our moderator, NCWIT Project Manager Brittney Anderson-Martin will be joined by three panelists who talk about how computer science is driving advancements in medical technology to enhance health management, especially for people navigating living with a medical condition.
Pathways in CS+Healthcare
By specializing in one or more of these CS subfields, individuals can develop a strong foundation for a career in healthcare technology:
Biomedical Computing: Combining principles of biology and medicine with computer science, this area involves developing computational tools for medical imaging, genomics, and biomedical data analysis.
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: Specializing in AI or ML is crucial for developing algorithms that can predict diseases, aid in diagnostics, and personalize patient care.
Data Science and Big Data Analytics: This area involves managing and analyzing large sets of medical data to uncover insights that can improve patient care and inform medical research.
Mobile and Ubiquitous Computing: Focuses on developing mobile health applications and wearable technologies that monitor patient health and deliver care remotely.
Cybersecurity and Privacy: Given the sensitivity of medical data, knowledge of cybersecurity is essential to protect patient information and comply with healthcare regulations.
Human-Computer Interaction (HCI): This subfield is important for designing user-friendly medical software and systems that can be easily used by healthcare professionals and patients.
Careers in CS+Healthcare
Health Information Technologist
Manages and analyzes health information systems to improve patient care, including through the development and optimization of electronic health records (EHRs). Some roles in this field focus on clinical data to draw insights that can inform healthcare decisions and policy, often using advanced data analytics and machine learning techniques.
Biomedical Engineer/Computational Biologist
Combines CS with biomedical engineering to develop software and algorithms for medical devices, diagnostic tools, or drug development. Similar career title: Bioinformatics Scientists.
Medical Imaging Scientist
Specializes in developing and improving medical imaging technology, such as Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) or Computed Tomography (CT) scan software, leveraging skills in image processing and machine learning.
Telehealth Technology Developer
This type of software developer focuses on creating and maintaining telehealth platforms, which allow healthcare providers to offer remote care to patients through technology. They work closely with healthcare professionals to create software that meets the needs of patients and providers. They also ensure that the software is secure, reliable, and user-friendly.
Healthcare IT Project Manager
Oversees IT projects in healthcare settings, ensuring that software implementations and upgrades meet the needs of healthcare providers and comply with industry regulations.
AI Healthcare Researcher
Engages in research to apply artificial intelligence in healthcare, from predictive analytics for patient care to AI-driven diagnostic tools.
Genomics Data Scientist
Works with genomics data, using computational tools to analyze genetic information for medical research and personalized medicine applications.
Mobile Health App Developer
Designs and develops mobile applications for healthcare, focusing on patient engagement, health tracking, and wellness.
