The Inaugural WACBE-BMES Workshop: Strengthening Global Science Dialogue and Collaboration

Session Title for Website and App: The Inaugural WACBE-BMES Workshop: Strengthening Global Science Dialogue and Collaboration

Special Session Program Description: Executive Summary
In the spirit of the long-standing success and tradition set by the Korea-US Joint Biomedical Engineering Society (BMES) Workshop, we are pleased to present this proposal for the first collaborative workshop between the World Association for Chinese Biomedical Engineers (WACBE) and BMES, supported by the Chinese Association for Biomaterials. Scheduled as a special session during the BMES 2024 Annual Meeting in Baltimore, Maryland, this workshop is a crucial endeavor towards fostering open science dialogue, facilitating the international participation of the BMES conference, and promoting a more diverse and inclusive biomedical engineering society. It represents a shared commitment to advancing biomedical engineering through unity, understanding, and global cooperation.
Objectives
• To catalyze open science dialogue by providing a forum for exchanging scientific knowledge and innovation, promoting transparency and collaborative progress.
• To create an inclusive environment that champions diversity and equity within the scientific community.
• To bolster international collaborations by identifying and addressing the unique challenges faced in international research and education partnerships, encouraging a unified approach to biomedical research and development.

Workshop Details
• Date & Location: The workshop is proposed to be held as a special BMES 2024 Annual Meeting session in Baltimore, Maryland. The selection of specific venue details within the meeting location will proceed through collaboration with BMES upon approval.
Proposed Program
• WACBE-BMES Symposium (90 minutes): We are honored to announce Guillermo A. Ameer of Northwestern University and CT Lim of the National University of Singapore as our keynote speakers (30 minutes each). Their renowned leadership in biomedical engineering will set the stage for a dialogue on cutting-edge research and the cultivation of an open, inclusive science community. Two invited talks by junior faculty members will complement the keynote talks, spotlighting innovative research of young investigators representing the evolving landscape of biomedical engineering.
• Networking Events: A networking reception will be organized to promote informal interactions among participants, with support from notable organizations such as the Asian American Academy of Science and Engineering, to forge long-lasting professional relationships.

Anticipated Outcomes
• A comprehensive report detailing the workshop's discourse, offering actionable strategies for promoting open science, inclusivity, and collaboration.
• Establishing an enduring framework for dialogue and cooperation between WACBE, BMES International Committee, and BMES members.
• Initiatives geared towards increasing diversity and combating discrimination within the scientific and engineering communities.
Conclusion
By inaugurating the WACBE-BMES workshop during the BMES 2024 Annual Meeting, we aim to continue the legacy of the esteemed Korea-US BMES Workshop, leading by example in the global scientific community. With influential figures such as Guillermo A. Ameer and CT Lim, as well as the contributions of junior faculty, this workshop is set to highlight the latest advancements in biomedical engineering and set a precedent for a more inclusive and collaborative scientific discourse.
We request the BMES Program Committee's endorsement of this proposal, supporting an initiative poised to impact the future of biomedical engineering and beyond significantly. We are eager to discuss this further and remain available to answer any questions or provide additional information.

Committee, Sig, or Organization Title: We look forward to your affirmative response and the opportunity to collaborate on this groundbreaking initiative.
With sincere regards,
Organizing Committee, WACBE-BMES Workshop
X. Edward Guo, President of the WACBE, Columbia University
Bingmei Fu, President-Elect of the WACBE, The City College of New York
Zong-ming Li, Past President of the WCABE, The University of Arizona
Song Li, The University of California at Los Angeles
Bingyun Li, President of the Chinese Association for Biomaterials, West Virginia University
Jian Yang, Past President of the Chinese Association for Biomaterials, Westlake University