BMES Leader Speaks on Engineering & Cancer at National Workshop

BMES was proud to be represented at the recent National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) workshop last week, Cancer & Engineering: The Convergence of Engineering and Health to Advance Cancer Research and Care. Held on May 6–7, 2025. This powerful event brought together leading experts to explore how engineering principles can transform cancer research, diagnostics, and treatment.

Among the distinguished speakers was BMES Immediate Past President Dr. Cynthia Reinhart-King, Department Chair & Professor at Rice University & John W. Cox, Chair of Bioengineering. Reinhart-King contributed her expertise to a session focused on leveraging engineering innovation to tackle some of the most complex challenges in oncology. Her insights into the intersections of biomedical engineering, systems biology, and patient-centered technology showcased the vital role engineers play in reimagining cancer care.

Why This Matters for the BMES Community

Biomedical engineers know the power of convergence—where technology, biology, and medicine meet to spark revolutionary advancements. This National Academies workshop was a testament to that belief. From precision diagnostics and advanced imaging to smart drug delivery systems and data-driven care strategies, the future of cancer research is deeply interdisciplinary.

Reinhart-King’s participation at this event reinforces that the BMES community is actively contributing to national dialogues on health innovation and it amplifies the role of engineers in shaping healthcare solutions.

Key Takeaways from the Workshop

• Interdisciplinary Collaboration is Crucial: Biomedical engineering innovations must be integrated with clinical and biological insights to make a meaningful impact in cancer care.
• Access to Healthcare is Essential: The panel discussions emphasized ensuring that cutting-edge technologies benefit of all patient populations, not just those in high-resource settings.
• Engineers as Catalysts: From machine learning to microfluidics, engineers are at the forefront of transforming cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.

Keep the Momentum Going

We encourage our members to engage with the ideas shared during the NASEM workshop and continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in biomedical engineering. Whether you’re conducting research, designing medical devices, or mentoring the next generation, your work is shaping the future of healthcare.

Want to learn more about the workshop? Visit the official NASEM event page here for session recordings and additional resources.

Join the conversation: What role do you think engineers should play in cancer research? Share your thoughts on BMES Hub or tag us on social with #BMESCommunity.