About us

At Bristol Biomedical Simulation, we apply high-fidelity, 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, we contribute to post-qualification courses and integrate 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.

We support contribution to outreach activities, with visitors from both primary and secondary schools experiencing simulation first hand.

Equipment and facilities

Now a virtual centre, our teaching and research activities use virtual platforms such as Elevate (CAE) Maestro with Virtual Patient. This means we can deliver simulation-based teaching of physiology in any location in the university, to any number of students, and virtually to any location in the world.

Previously our teaching used CAE patient simulators including CAE iSTAN, CAE Athena (the first female high-fidelity simulator) and CAE HPS. We also support task trainers for outreach activities. 

All our teaching is based on validated, high-fidelity physiological modelling. 

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

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

View some of our key projects