The Rice Global Paris Center recently hosted a groundbreaking event focused on the future of bioelectronics. The BioElectronic Therapeutics (BETx) conference and workshop, held on June 27-28, marked a significant milestone as the first formal event dedicated to bioelectronics at Rice University’s Paris campus. This pioneering event showcased the potential of bioelectronics in transforming healthcare and advancing technological innovations.
A Convergence of Thought Leaders
Organized by Rice bioengineers Omid Veiseh and Jacob Robinson, along with Northwestern University’s Johnathan Rivnay, the event brought together a diverse group of leaders from academia, industry, venture capital, foundations, and government. This gathering aimed to foster discussions on the rapidly evolving field of bioelectronics, with the ultimate goal of accelerating technological advancements and improving patient care.
Multidisciplinary Innovation in Bioelectronics
“Bioelectronics is a multidisciplinary arena for research and innovation that aims to develop transformative diagnostic and therapeutic health care tools through the integration of the living body with electronic systems,” said Veiseh, a professor of bioengineering and a Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas Scholar whose research seeks to overcome challenges to the medical use of implanted biomaterials and devices.
Sponsorship and Goals
Sponsored by the Rice Biotech Launch Pad, an accelerator dedicated to bridging the gap between innovative research and clinical application, BETx aimed to transform patient care and transform the biotech industry. Veiseh emphasized the importance of accelerating these technologies to achieve the greatest human impact.
Expanding Platforms for Interaction
Robinson, a professor of electrical and computer engineering and bioengineering at Rice, highlighted the need for better and more diverse platforms for interaction in the growing field of bioelectronics. His work focuses on developing nanotechnologies for monitoring and controlling target cell populations in the nervous system.
Topics and Activities at BETx
The event featured talks on crucial topics such as market-driven innovations in therapeutics, clinician needs, bioelectronic integration, bioengineering cell-based therapeutics, and the funding landscape in bioelectronics and neurotechnology. In addition to formal presentations, BETx provided opportunities for interaction and dialogue through discussions, a poster session, and a career panel.
Educational and Networking Opportunities
Veiseh highlighted the importance of events like BETx for professional growth, particularly for Ph.D. students. Matthew Parker, an electrical engineering graduate student in Robinson’s lab, and Lizzy Kelley, a bioengineering graduate student in Veiseh’s lab, both noted the unique opportunity to engage with leading figures in the field and forge a community.
Embracing Interdisciplinary Perspectives
Nathan Brown, another graduate student from Veiseh’s lab, highlighted the importance of connecting with various stakeholders in the interdisciplinary field of bioelectronics. Understanding challenges from different perspectives is crucial for advancing this novel and important space.
What Do You Think About the Future of Bioelectronics?
The BETx conference at the Rice Global Paris Center provided a platform for exploring the future of bioelectronics, bringing together key players to discuss innovations and collaboration opportunities. What are your thoughts on the advancements in bioelectronics? How do you see this field impacting healthcare in the coming years? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
