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Salem High School

Blue Devil Pride

Biomedical Science

Biomedical Science

About the Program

 

Biomedical Science is a broad field that includes the study of Biology and Medicine as well as the use of technology to diagnose and treat health conditions. The two year laboratory-based program is aimed at preparing students for a variety of careers including medicine, genetics, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, biochemistry, and biomedical engineering. Students have access to state-of-the art equipment and technology in the laboratory. Completion of Biomedical Science I within the same school year satisfies the life science graduation requirement.

Hands-on-work in the state of the art laboratory includes microbiology techniques, forensic analyses, molecular techniques, and dissections. Students perform skills used in Medicine such as simulated phlebotomy, measurement of blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, reflex and reaction assessment. Data generated is analyzed and interpreted to inform on the state of human health and methods to preserve and/or improve patient condition.

Program highlights and opportunities include: Early College credit, Industry Recognized Credentials, Work-based Learning Experience, Field trips and Guest speakers (academic and industry experts), Capstone project, Extended Learning Opportunity, work force and college preparation. 

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Instructor

 

A woman with long, wavy hair poses for a portrait.Dr. Loren Blake is a physician scientist serving as Instructor of Biomedical Sciences at Salem CTE and on adjunct faculty at Great Bay Community College, committed to ensuring that students receive high-quality education and experience in this diverse cutting-edge field. With a strong background in cell and gene therapy, she has held leadership positions in academia and industry, serving at a strategic level within medical & scientific affairs and clinical development. She is President of Agora Bioscience & Technology and subject matter expert within life sciences and related technologies.

Dr. Blake received her medical degree from New York Medical College before postdoctoral training in Internal Medicine at Montefiore New Rochelle and additional residency training in Diagnostic Radiology at Westchester Medical Center. She received her master’s degree in medical sciences from Boston University, performing cancer immunotherapy research for the thesis at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute’s Division of Medical Oncology, Hematologic Neoplasia.

Outside of teaching and industry work, she enjoys mentoring on Salem CTE’s FIRST Robotics team, and training in the martial arts and boxing. 

 

Courses

  • Grades 10-12, 2 Credits (EC), Year, Every day

    Biomedical Science is a two-year program for students interested in pursuing a career or college major in the medical sciences, biotechnology, and affiliated fields. This is a hands-on program where students learn skills and techniques in a state-of-the art laboratory while preparing for high-demand jobs and additional post-secondary education. In the first semester of Biomedical Science 1, students focus on forensic analyses which include microbiological techniques (such as aseptic technique, growing cultures, media preparation, and microbial identification) as well as molecular techniques (such as DNA isolation and analysis) and simulated blood analyses. In the second semester, students study the human body systems and perform skills used in medicine such as simulated phlebotomy and measurement of vital signs, while continuing lab work to analyze simulated patient samples. Students practice scientific reasoning, learn industry practices, data analysis and interpretation, and technical writing. Students earn Industry Recognized Credentials, Early College credit, and recognition as HOSA members with opportunity to hold leadership positions and compete in health professions events. Guest speakers from industry and academia visit classes to share their expertise and experience. 

    This course qualifies for 4 college credits in The Human Body.

     

  • Grades 11-12, 2 Credits (EC), Year, Every day

    This is the second course in the Biomedical Science & Technology program with a focus on advanced topics and skills including those within molecular biology, biochemistry, microbiology, and biotechnology. Students further technical skills by performing more complex studies in the laboratory to  heighten scientific reasoning capabilities. The first semester of the course includes a work-based learning experience on a cutting edge topic in biofabrication while the second semester focuses on a long-term project of the student’s choosing as a capstone. HOSA membership provides opportunities to attend conferences, hold leadership positions, and compete in health professions events including biotechnology. Students earn Early College credit, Industry Recognized Credentials, recognition as HOSA members, and a work-based learning experience certificate. Field trips and guest speakers provide insight into the industry and academia.

    This course qualifies for 4 college credits in Intro to Biotechnology.
    Prerequisite(s): Grade of C or better in Biomedical Science I or teacher recommendation.