The Society of Engineering in Medicine and Biology of the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE EMBS) has distinguished the IEEE EMB Chapter of Panama as the best in Latin America awarding it the Best Regional Professional Chapter Award 2025.
This recognition highlights the outstanding trajectory of the chapter in the promotion of biomedical engineering, the organization of high-level scientific events and its firm commitment to technical, academic and humanitarian training.
The award was announced through an official note signed by Natalie Mrachacz-Kersting, Vice President of Membership and Student Activities of the IEEE EMBS and will be presented during the opening ceremony of the 43rd International Conference EMBC, on July 14 at the Bella Centre in Copenhagen, Denmark.
Biomedical engineering is a discipline that applies the principles and techniques of engineering to the field of medicine and biology. Its objective is to design, develop and improve devices, systems and technologies that contribute to the diagnosis, treatment and monitoring of diseases, as well as to the general improvement of health care.
Currently, three Panamanian universities offer academic training in this specialty: the Specialized University of the Americas (Udelas), the Latin University of Panama (Ulatina) and the Technological University of Panama (UTP).
Among them, more than 400 professionals in biomedical engineering have already graduated, both at the technical and undergraduate levels, reflecting the sustained growth and relevance of this discipline in the country.
Contributions that transcend
Dr. Luis Carlos Estrada-Petrocelli, president of the IEEE EMBS Panama Chapter, this achievement “is the result of collective work and a shared vision.”
“During the last few years, the chapter has developed a constant and articulated work through local and international events, promoting academic and professional participation, and strengthening ties with strategic allies. This achievement recognizes a trajectory built collectively with vision and commitment,” said Dr. Estrada-Petrocelli.
“We know that this award was given after a rigorous evaluation process by an international committee, which valued the impact, quality and scope of our actions. Beyond the technical, this distinction has a profound meaning for those of us who have promoted these initiatives with vocation and conviction. It encourages us to continue promoting a biomedical engineering oriented to knowledge, training and well-being, from Panama to the world. In addition, it represents a clear example of the potential that our region has to lead, innovate and contribute significantly to scientific and technological advancement in the field of health,” added the president of the IEEE EMBS Panama Chapter
For his part, Dr. Ernesto Ibarra, president of IEEE Section Panama, highlighted that “biomedical engineering has played a fundamental role in strengthening the health sector in Panama, providing high quality human talent. This recognition not only validates the path traveled, but also commits us to continue betting on excellence, permanent updating and the social impact of our work.”
The IEEE EMB Chapter of Panama was founded in 2009, contributing for more than 15 years to the professional and academic advancement of biomedical engineering in our country, highlights Dr. Ibarra.