BioDesign Innovation Needs Discovery (BMEN90042)

BioDesign Innovation Needs Discovery introduces students to identifying and prioritising unmet healthcare needs as the foundation for innovation. Students will analyse clinical practice and scientific literature, gather qualitative and quantitative data, and apply these insights to define opportunities. 

Through lectures and practical training in BioDesign principles, students will conduct background research, observe clinical practice, and screen identified needs. They will also consider market potential, regulatory pathways, reimbursement, and intellectual property. Working with clinicians, students will complete a guided project culminating in a need specification that addresses clinical impact, feasibility, and market viability. Assessment tasks directly reflect these activities, ensuring students gain practical experience and demonstrate key innovation skills. 

Intended learning outcomes

On completion of this subject, students should be able to:

• Evaluate the need for research and development of a healthcare solution by searching, analysing, and documenting evidence from clinical practice, engineering science, and relevant literature.
• Design a research methodology that applies established theories to an interdisciplinary body of knowledge and practice.
• Critically evaluate and synthesise complex information, problems, concepts, and theories related to unmet medical needs using qualitative and quantitative sources.
• Evaluate and articulate market size, regulation and reimbursement requirements, sustainability and intellectual property (IP) constraints relevant to a potential healthcare solution.
• Demonstrate clear technical written and oral communication skills.

Generic skills