The Future of Science: Medical and Biological Engineering

In the heart of history, amidst the mysteries of time, a tale unfolds that traces the lineage of science, weaving a narrative that spans centuries, cultures, and innovations.

The story begins with the brilliant polymath Al-Zahrawi, also known as Albucasis, who walked the earth during the 10th century. Hailing from the Andalusian region, Albucasis was a pioneer in the field of medicine and surgery. His compendium, the "Kitab al-Tasrif", a monumental work that encompassed surgical procedures, medical instruments, and a plethora of medical knowledge, became a cornerstone of medical advancement in medieval Europe. It wasn't just a mere text; it was a testament to the spirit of discovery, a beacon that illuminated the path for future generations.

Fast forward to the present day, where we stand on the cusp of an era defined by the convergence of medical and biological engineering. The groundwork laid by pioneers like Albucasis has evolved into a symphony of innovation, revolutionizing healthcare in ways that were once the stuff of dreams. Our world, characterized by digital miracles and interdisciplinary collaborations, is now witness to the magnificent dance between biology and engineering.

And at the heart of this evolution lies the 16th Mediterranean Conference on Medical and Biological Engineering and Computing (MEDICON) and the 5th International Conference on Medical and Biological Engineering (CMBEBIH), scheduled for September 14th-16th, 2023, in the picturesque city of Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina. These conferences aren't just gatherings; they are veritable crucibles of knowledge stewardship, echoing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that guide humanity towards a harmonious future. Researchers, policymakers, and partners in society converge to share the wisdom of their domains, fostering a tapestry where evidence intertwines with policy to nurture sustainable development.

Within the embrace of these conferences, I found myself emerging as a young science ambassador - a bridge connecting the past and the future. As a proud member of the local organizing committee, I undertook a pivotal role in curating a two hours long special session titled 'Education in Biomedical Engineering: For professionals & for students'. The collaboration with the esteemed Prof. Dr. Martha Zequera, a luminary from Columbia and a member of IFMBE, was a dream realized. Together, we orchestrated an event that transcended geographical boundaries, bringing together twelve exceptional panelists, comprising five revered professors and seven talented students representing diverse corners of the world. In those moments, we kindled a dialogue that resonated with the very spirit of Albucasis - the essence of sharing knowledge to propel advancement.

Yet, my journey doesn't culminate there. The footprints I've left behind mark a path uniquely my own. A paper, titled 'Analysis of Predictive Parameters in Prediction of the Occurrence of Type 2 Diabetes Using Machine Learning Algorithms,' now graces the revered pages of Springer Nature. With each word etched onto those pages, I declare not just my dedication but also the tremendous potential inherent in the realm of medical and biological engineering. This paper stands as a testament to the exciting possibilities that lie within this field - a proclamation of my aspirations, achievements, and unwavering commitment.

Yet, as we stand on the precipice of tomorrow, let us ponder the future we are crafting. The landscape of drug development morphs into a realm driven by AI and computational prowess. Diseases will be diagnosed not just by scalpel and microscope, but by the intricate algorithms that weave patterns in a sea of data. Personalized medicine emerges, tailored to the individual's unique genetic makeup, and innovative technologies like CRISPR-Cas9 promise to rewrite the very fabric of life.

As we bring our story full circle, from the ancient wisdom of Albucasis to the modern-day symposium of MEDICON and CMBEBIH, we find ourselves in a narrative that transcends time. The ambassador's journey, a mosaic of education, collaboration, and groundbreaking research, forms an integral thread, binding the past to the future. And so, as we stand at this juncture, we cast our gaze forward, eager to unravel the secrets that the future holds, while never forgetting the footsteps that led us here.

In the realm of medical and biological engineering, the journey never ceases, for with every step, we shape the destiny of humanity itself.

Sumeja Hadzalic,

Faculty of Pharmacy - University of Sarajevo