Why BME? BioMedical Engineering Awareness Session
January 3, 2025 · 12:30 PM - 2:30 PM @ Online event
Description
The event was designed to introduce the field of Biomedical Engineering to first-year students, providing them with a comprehensive understanding of its importance in healthcare and technology. The event was done so that they could make an informed choice in their field selection. The opening speech, delivered by Senul, outlined the foundational reasons for the introduction of BME as an academic discipline, emphasizing its critical role in the development of healthcare technologies and medical devices. He also provided an overview of the program structure, detailing the 15 undergraduates enrolled and the GPA cut-off requirements for admission. This session highlighted the importance of accreditation in the field, addressing its past status, current developments, and potential future trajectory. The discussion also covered how accreditation impacts job prospects and opportunities for higher studies in the domain. Following this, Tharusha presented an in-depth look at the BME curriculum, focusing on key areas such as bio-signal processing, biomedical image processing, medical instrumentation (especially with AI integration), and the rapidly advancing field of medical robotics. The session also highlighted modules of particular interest, including genomic signal processing, computational biology, physiological modeling, and anatomy and physiology. Students were introduced to the importance of hands-on experience through internships, semester projects, and final year projects (FYPs), which serve as vital components of the BME education. The next session, led by speakers Sanjana, Dineth, and Pahansith, explored the vital relationship between academia and the biomedical industry. They provided insights into how BME students can bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application through collaborations with industry leaders. Career opportunities in research, healthcare, and the biomedical industry were discussed in detail, helping students understand the vast scope of potential career paths in BME. The final session of the day was delivered by Umesha, who provided an overview of student life within the BME program. This session introduced students to the Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society (EMBS) and other extra-curricular activities that can enhance their learning experience and personal development. The importance of engaging in student organizations and pursuing extra-curricular achievements was highlighted as a way for students to build their network and gain valuable skills outside of the classroom. Throughout the event, students were encouraged to ask questions, engage in discussions, and explore the many opportunities that the field of Biomedical Engineering offers. The event successfully raised awareness about the program, its curriculum, and the exciting possibilities for students pursuing careers in this rapidly evolving field
Agenda
06:00 PM Introduction to BME 06:30 PM Curriculum Overview 07:00 PM Internships and Achievements 07:25 PM Academia and Industry Insights 07:40 PM Student Life 07:50 PM Q&A Session 08:00 PM Closing Remarks & Thanks