Bioniker/in

For more information on the Bioniker/in profession, one can refer to sources such as BioCentury, BIOKON - Bionik-Kompetenznetz, BIOspektrum, biotechnologie.de, CLB Chemie - Leben - Biotechnik, Deine Zukunft: Biowissenschaften, Journal of Theoretical Biology, Online-Studienführer "Master in den Biowissenschaften", and vifabio - virtuelle Fachbibliothek Biologie.

The use of 3-D printing is increasing in bionics. This method makes it possible to utilize complex structures and forms from the natural world for technical designs. For example, structures that preserve habitats, such as 'Living Seawalls,' are created. Bionic engineers in product development must familiarize themselves with this new technique to apply it effectively.

To succeed in this profession, interest in theoretical-abstract activities (e.g., researching leaf structures of various plant species, genetically examining biological samples, analyzing plant surfaces with a light microscope) and organizational-auditing activities (e.g., preparing biotechnological or bioprocess engineering documentation, documenting research results on the lotus effect) are important.

Bionic engineers primarily work in laboratories and cleanrooms, outdoors (e.g., during field trials, in greenhouses), in office and meeting rooms, and in production halls. Additionally, they may also work in a home office or remotely as needed.

Core competencies acquired or deepened during Studium (university studies) include analysis, biochemistry, bioinformatics, bionics, biophysics, biotechnology, chemical examination and measurement procedures, development, research, information and communication management, laboratory work, laboratory technology, microbiology, physiology, materials science, materials physics, and cell biology. Furthermore, other competencies that may be significant for practicing this profession include application technology, application consulting, bioprocess engineering, using CAD (Computer Aided Design) systems, chemical process engineering, preparing technical publications, manufacturing technology, finite element method (FEM), expert appraisal, teaching (university), molecular biology, patent and trademark law, product management, project management, process engineering, conducting and evaluating experiments, and experimental planning.

The advancing digitalization of the working and professional world can change task areas and requirement profiles. For bionic engineers, opportunities may arise to engage with the following technologies, procedures, or systems: 3-D printing (e.g., producing prototypes using 3-D printers), 3-D simulation (e.g., virtually representing bionic design models), blended learning (e.g., preparing teaching materials for the combination of virtual learning settings and in-person events), digital whiteboard (e.g., using an interactive digital whiteboard during university lectures), laboratory information systems - LIS (e.g., analyzing biological surfaces with the help of networked laboratory devices), Massive Open Online Course - MOOC (e.g., conducting online courses at a university), medical nano and microrobots (e.g., developing nature-inspired models and materials for the production of nano and microrobots), and numerical simulation (e.g., the transfer of biological processes).

Bionic engineers create technical innovations that contribute to sustainable and resource-saving development. This requires a high degree of responsibility and a meticulous working method. Laboratory investigations demand precise observation, dexterity, concentration, and perseverance. When searching for efficient and environmentally appropriate technical solutions inspired by nature, bionic engineers need analytical and creative thinking skills. When coordinating the production-oriented implementation of research results, they utilize their organizational and planning abilities. If they work as lecturers at universities, they also apply current pedagogical and subject-specific didactic knowledge and measure the quality of their teaching by the progress and feedback of students. For interdisciplinary collaboration with representatives of other disciplines and for advising companies and organizations, these skills are essential.

Bionic engineers can work as freelancers in areas such as: establishing an engineering office for consulting, planning, project management, or analytical services; working as a consultant; working as an expert; or working as an appraiser.

Example of a collective bargaining gross basic salary (monthly): 5,424 € to 6,439 €. Source: Collective bargaining agreements collection of the Bavarian State Ministry for Family, Labour and Social Affairs. Please note: This information is for orientation only. No claims can be derived from it.

Motor Vehicles: Manufacturing of other parts and accessories for motor vehicles, e.g., ultralight components for vehicle construction. Mechanical Engineering, Toolmaking: Manufacturing of other non-industry-specific machinery not elsewhere classified, e.g., manufacturing of components and materials for nano and micro-robots. Medical Technology, Orthopedics, Dental Technology: Manufacturing of orthopedic products, e.g., manufacturing of prostheses. Aerospace: Aviation, e.g., aircraft manufacturers. Chemistry: Manufacturing of adhesives, manufacturing of dyes and pigments, e.g., manufacturers of self-cleaning facade paints, manufacturing of chemical fibers. Natural, Engineering, Agricultural Sciences and Medicine: Other research and development in the field of natural, engineering, agricultural sciences and medicine, research and development in the field of biotechnology. Technical, Physical, Chemical Examination: Technical, physical, and chemical examination. Design, Styling: Other specialized design activities, e.g., heating system design.

Those who wish to work in this profession typically need a completed undergraduate degree (Studium) in bionics. Leadership positions or specialized tasks usually require a master's degree (Masterstudium). Activities in science and research often require a doctorate (Promotion) or habilitation (Habilitation).

Bionics (undergraduate), Bionics (postgraduate)

Bionicists find employment, for example, in companies in vehicle technology, mechanical engineering, medical technology, aerospace industry, materials technology, research institutes and maritime institutions, and universities.

Bionicist. Job title in French: Chercheur/Chercheuse en bionique.

Some characteristics of work and social behavior are relevant for all professions and are therefore not mentioned separately. These include: reliability, punctuality, honesty, ability to criticize, and appropriate manners. In addition, the following job-specific characteristics are required to practice this academic profession: willingness to perform and commit (e.g., willingness to actively and dedicatedly take on additional, technically demanding laboratory examinations during work bottlenecks), perseverance/determination (e.g., persistently researching natural solutions for technical applications despite setbacks), conscientiousness (e.g., error-free planning and execution of experimental series in the laboratory), independent working style (e.g., independently writing biotechnological, bioprocess engineering, and engineering science articles), creativity (e.g., inventively transferring properties of nature).

Bionicists research natural solutions like extremely tear-resistant spider silk, make them usable for technical applications, develop comparable materials, and work in product development or process engineering, in addition to science and teaching.

Biologie.de, BiologyJobs.com, BioM, Bionity.com, KarriereChemie.de, Karriereingenieur.de, ingenieur1.de, ingenieurweb, jobvector, Laborjournal, life-science Karriere Services, SciTechCareer, WILA-Arbeitsmarkt.

Bundesingenieurkammer (BIngK), Bundesgemeinschaft der Ingenieure e.V., DECHEMA Gesellschaft für Chemische Technik und Biotechnologie e.V., Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG), Forschungsgemeinschaft Bionik-Kompetenznetz e.V. BIOKON e.V., Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB), SPECTARIS - Dt. Ind.-Verband f. opt., medizin. und mechatron. Technologien e.V., VBIO Verband Biologie, Biowissenschaften und Biomedizin in Deutschland e.V., VDI-Gesellschaft Technologies of Life Sciences (VDI-TLS), ver.di - Vereinte Dienstleistungsgewerkschaft, Verein Deutscher Ingenieure e.V. (VDI).

Bionic engineers take responsibility for people by adhering to hygiene and safety regulations to protect human and environmental health. They are responsible for material assets by developing validation activities to ensure that production facilities and all manufacturing processes always meet required quality standards. They perform precision and delicate work when handling laboratory equipment. They engage in customer contact through consulting and sales discussions. They deal with plants by observing them and analyzing biological processes. They perform manual work by setting up experimental apparatuses. They work with technical devices, machines, and systems such as measuring and testing instruments and sequencing robots. They perform screen work by creating 3D models using CAD software. They wear protective clothing and equipment such as lab coats, face masks, and gloves. They work in laboratories by conducting chemical and biological analyses and tests. They work in office environments by preparing reports, technical statements, and expert opinions.

Bionic engineers can work in various fields. They can teach as lecturers or professors at universities and academies, or serve as study program coordinators. In process and product development, they can be heads of research and development, product developers, or regulatory affairs officers. In scientific research, they can work as research associates, leaders of research groups, or scientific staff members.

Objects of study include microorganisms, cell cultures, animals, and plants. Laboratory equipment and accessories include microscopes, centrifuges, sequencing robots, measuring and testing instruments, reaction vessels, and pipettes. Chemical substances include nutrient solutions, acids, bases, and disinfectants. Documents such as experiment protocols, training and lecture materials, expert opinions, and hygiene, safety, and environmental protection regulations are used. Office equipment and software, including PCs, internet access, telephones, and CAD software, are also tools of the trade.

Bionic engineers work in various fields. In research, for example, they analyze the strengths of animals regarding body structure and locomotion, or seek solutions to technical problems in nature. At universities, they publish research results and conduct lectures. In industrial development departments, they collaborate with engineers, technicians, and designers to develop materials or mobility mechanisms. For example, swimsuits based on the flow behavior of shark skin are created in this way.

Continuing education for adaptation helps to keep professional knowledge current and adapt it to new developments (e.g., in the fields of biology, biotechnology, materials science, or research and development).

Bachelor graduates can enhance their professional and career opportunities through further Studium (higher education), for example, in bionics or nanoscience. A doctorate (Promotion) is generally required for a scientific career at a university; an habilitation (postdoctoral qualification) is usually needed for appointment as a university professor. A doctorate may also facilitate access to higher professional positions in the private sector, research, and public administration.

Bionics engineers technologically implement principles from nature, for example, by developing or improving devices, surfaces, materials, or raw materials based on observations and findings from studies of animals or plants, using biological, genetic, or biotechnological methods. They write specialist articles and create documentation. In science and teaching (usually after a Master's degree and possibly a doctorate), they participate in research projects, write reports, identify new bionics questions, and evaluate, implement, and publish the results of observations and experiments. They conduct lectures and, if necessary, administer exams. In product development and consulting, they analyze and optimize biological processes. They compare information acquisition and processing of biological systems for information systems. They create 3D models using CAD software. They advise companies and organizations, for example, regarding component optimizations in lightweight construction based on nature's design principles. They prepare expert opinions and technical statements.

The following additional employment alternatives are available for bionics engineers: Scientific Research Field, Biotechnological Engineer, Biochemist, Biologist, Bioscientist. Commonalities include: developing technical applications based on biological, physical, or biochemical knowledge; planning and conducting measurements, analyses, and laboratory tests; setting up experimental apparatus and conducting experiments, documenting results. Note: The mentioned job alternatives may require a longer training period or additional qualification.

Bionics engineers research solutions from nature, such as honeycomb technology or extremely tear-resistant spider silk, and make them usable for technical applications or develop comparable materials. In addition to science and teaching, they can also work, for example, in product development or process engineering. In scientific research and teaching, they conduct measurements and tests in laboratories using chemical, biological, and genetic engineering methods to research the properties and principles of nature. They investigate metabolic processes, movement sequences, or surfaces of animal or plant models and check whether these principles can be applied to artificial products and lead to new materials, components, or processes; for example, to ultralight components for vehicle construction. In addition to design principles from nature, they also research approaches, processes, and the transfer of information in nature and make these available for technical applications.

The following abilities, knowledge, and skills are required for performing possible activities in this academic profession. Abilities: Numerical (computational) thinking (e.g., applying engineering mathematical knowledge of analysis and linear algebra); Figural-spatial thinking (e.g., generating 3D models using CAD software); Technical understanding (e.g., searching for solutions to technical problems); Ability to plan and organize (e.g., planning and coordinating the production-oriented implementation of research results).

The exercise of the profession may involve the following physical requirements. This information does not necessarily apply to every activity profile or every professional application. Functionality of arms and hands (e.g., clamping and positioning workpieces in measuring apparatus); Fine motor skills of hands and fingers (e.g., handling pipettes and sensitive laboratory equipment); Near vision - even corrected (e.g., performing microscopic examinations of surface structures; processing newly acquired data on screen); Color vision (e.g., recognizing color changes in experiments/processes); Spatial vision (e.g., recognizing three-dimensional structures in nature and displaying them on screen); Hearing and speech comprehension (e.g., in interdisciplinary collaboration with representatives of other disciplines); Healthy, resilient skin on hands and arms (e.g., wearing protective clothing when handling chemicals such as acids, alkalis, or culture media solutions).

The following professions or activities are listed that show similarities to the original profession. These professions represent a possible alternative for applicants who cannot find a vacant position in their learned profession. Furthermore, employers can consider specialists in these professions as alternatives for filling a job in the original profession. Some alternative professions only comprise partial activities of the original profession, while others require an induction period, which can vary in length in individual cases. The following direct employment and staffing alternatives are available for bionics engineers: Job and staffing alternatives for professional specializations (usually short induction period): Biophysicist. A list of all possible degrees of relatedness can be found here: Explanations of the individual degrees of relatedness.

Working as a bionicist is not regulated. No professional recognition is necessary to work in this profession with a qualification acquired abroad. However, there is the possibility to apply for an individual certificate evaluation for foreign university degrees through the Central Office for Foreign Education (ZAB). This can be helpful for applications in the German labor market. Further information on living and working in Germany: Hotline Working and Living in Germany - central information hotline of the Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) and the Federal Employment Agency (BA); For people from abroad - an information service of the Federal Employment Agency; Central Foreign and Specialist Placement Service of the Federal Employment Agency; Make it in Germany - The welcome portal of the Skilled Workers Initiative for international skilled workers.

The following health limitations could lead to problems when performing this profession. The information does not necessarily apply to every activity profile or every professional application. Increasingly, there are also ways to compensate for limitations, for example, through technical aids. Restricted functionality of arms and hands (e.g., clamping and positioning workpieces in measuring apparatuses), restricted fine motor skills of hands and fingers (e.g., handling pipettes and sensitive laboratory equipment), uncorrectable visual impairment for near vision (e.g., performing microscopic examinations of surface structures; processing newly acquired data on screen), color vision deficiencies (e.g., recognizing color changes in experiments/procedures), missing/impaired spatial vision (e.g., recognizing three-dimensional structures in nature and displaying them on screen), hearing impairment, hard of hearing, deafness, hearing disorder, chronic ear conditions.

The following alternative positions are available for the profession of bionicist: Field of Scientific Research, Engineer for Biotechnology, Bioscientist, Biochemist. Commonalities: Developing technical applications based on biological, physical, or biochemical knowledge; planning and conducting measurements, analyses, and laboratory investigations; setting up experimental apparatuses and conducting experiments, documenting results. Note: The mentioned alternative positions may require an induction period, which can vary in length in individual cases.