Bioethics is a branch of applied ethics that studies the philosophical, social, and legal issues in medicine and the life sciences. It is concerned with human life and well-being and the ethical implications and applications of health-related sciences and research. Bioethicists ensure that medical professionals and researchers adhere to those moral principles. 

Bioethicists research ethical, social, and legal issues in medicine and biomedical research. They give seminars, help draft institutional policies, serve on ethics committees, and provide consultation and advice on ethical matters. Bioethicists work for academic institutions, hospitals, government agencies, private corporations, and foundations.

 Dr. Rentia Fourie is enrolled for a Master of Science in Medicine (Bioethics and Health Law) degree at the University of the Witwatersrand to qualify as a bioethicist. The degree entails a foundation in ethics, health law, advanced research ethics, and advanced health ethics.