About the centre
About the centre
At Bristol Biomedical Simulation Centre, we apply high-fidelity, manikin-based human patient simulation to the teaching of key principles of physiology (and pharmacology) in biomedical sciences programmes and in the professional Medicine, Dental Surgery and Veterinary Science programmes.
Although mainly associated with preclinical teaching, the centre contributes to post-qualification courses and integrates activities into clinical teaching for students in later years of professional courses. We work closely with partners in the simulation industry, clinicians and others with an interest in novel methodologies in teaching.
The centre makes a considerable contribution to outreach activities, with visitors from both primary and secondary schools experiencing simulation first hand.
Equipment and facilities
The centre comprises a simulation suite with one CAE Healthcare iStan, one CAE Heathcare Athena, a SMOTS capture system and Microsoft Hub for distributed teaching, and a Microsoft Hololens.
We host one Laerdal MegaCode Kid QCPR and eight Laerdal Resusci Anne QCPR units for outreach faculty. Our mobile simulators (Athena and iStan) can be used in our co-located teaching laboratories with capacities of circa 150 learners and nearby lecture theatres. We have access to the facilities of the adjacent AIMS Seminar Centre.
History of the centre
Founded in 2005 as part of the AIMS Centre for Excellence in Teaching and Learning led by Professor Judy Harris. Simulation at The University of Bristol pioneered in full integration of human patient simulation using two CAE Healthcare Human Patient Simulators (HPS) into basic science and preclinical curricula. In 2017, simulation activities were brought together as the Bristol Biomedical Simulation Centre. In 2023, we completed our first teaching year using the latest stage of evolution of human simulators, the virtual human CAE Embody.
Key members of the centre
- Richard Helyer BSc (Hons) PhD, Director and Academic Lead for Simulation
- Katherine Harrison BSc (Hons), Specialist Simulation Technician
- Eugene Lloyd BSc (Hons) MB ChB Med Ed FHEA, Clinical Lead for Simulation
Many other members of faculty involved in design and delivery of teaching and outreach using simulation.
If you would like to work with us
We are always interested in working with new partners. Get in touch with us at biomed-sim@bristol.ac.uk