[spartango]

If you are interested in getting your hands dirty around the world, you might checkout Engineers without Borders[1] or the Peace Corps[2], or one of many similar non-profit organizations that employ skilled people to help others around the world. You might even volunteer with the Red Cross to help victims of the typhoon in the Philippines.

On the less philanthropic end of things, there are a host of organizations solving problems in the biomedical world. From hospitals to biotech companies, there are many possibilities. I've found working in this space incredibly fulfilling, especially given that I've had a chance to see patient cases where we can make a difference.

[1] http://www.ewb-usa.org [2] http://www.peacecorps.gov

[scottalpert]

Volunteering's good. I do it. But ya gotta earn a living somehow.

And yes, biomed is a good space to do well while doing good.

[RougeFemme]

http://unos.org/ - primary mission is to maintain organ transplant lists.

You won't get rich, but you'll have money left over after paying your bills.

Vision statement

To promote long, healthy and productive lives for persons with organ failure by promoting maximized organ supply, effective and safe care, and equitable organ allocation and access to transplantation.

Mission statement

To advance organ availability and transplantation by uniting and supporting its communities for the benefit of patients through education, technology and policy development.