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The Department of Biomedical Engineering (BME) is excited to build momentum this fall with a series of events and new initiatives that reflect its commitment to world-class research, translational impact and a supportive community for our students, faculty and staff.

Distinguished speaker series

Kicking off the academic year, BME will host a Distinguished Speaker Series in September 2025, bringing three internationally renowned pioneers in computational biology and RNA research to the º£½ÇÉçÇø. On September 10, Professor Sebastian Will (École Polytechnique) will share his expertise in RNA structure alignment and design algorithms. Professor Ivo L. Hofacker (University of Vienna) will join us on September 19 to discuss how RNA modifications affect structure, expanding on his groundbreaking work with the ViennaRNA package. The series will conclude on September 26 with Professor Jan Gorodkin (University of Copenhagen), who will present innovations in CRISPR guide RNA design and analysis. Together, these lectures promise to deliver cutting-edge ideas in algorithmic biology, genome engineering and biomedical applications, sparking new discussions and collaborations across the BME community.

Building community: Fall Welcome BBQ

To foster connection and celebrate our shared sense of community, BME will also host a Fall Welcome BBQ. This department-wide social event will bring together new and returning students, faculty and staff for a relaxed, inclusive afternoon of good food and conversation. Building community is a core priority for BME, and events like this help strengthen the relationships that support our success throughout the year.

New student translational competition

This fall also marks the launch of an exciting new initiative: the BME Student Translational Competition, organized by the BME Graduate Students’ Society. The competition will recognize the real-world impact of graduate student research by inviting students who are first authors of a paper published in 2025 to submit a lay summary and a visual representation showcasing their work. Finalists, chosen through alumni voting, will receive cash prizes at the December holiday party. This initiative not only celebrates the translational excellence of our graduate students but also encourages effective science communication and enhances the visibility of BME research within and beyond the university.

Together, these upcoming events and activities highlight BME’s dedication to innovation, impact and a vibrant, supportive community. Here’s to a meaningful and inspiring year ahead!