Source: IOWA STATE UNIVERSITY submitted to NRP
INSTITUTE OF BIOLOGICAL ENGINEERS ANNUAL MEETING - BIOENGINEERING FOR ONE HEALTH
Sponsoring Institution
National Institute of Food and Agriculture
Project Status
COMPLETE
Funding Source
AFRI COMPETITIVE GRANT
Reporting Frequency
Annual
Accession No.
1031933
Grant No.
2024-67021-42097
Cumulative Award Amt.
$50,000.00
Proposal No.
2023-11421
Multistate No.
(N/A)
Project Start Date
Mar 15, 2024
Project End Date
Mar 14, 2025
Grant Year
2024
Program Code
[A1511]- Agriculture Systems and Technology: Nanotechnology for Agricultural and Food Systems
Recipient Organization
IOWA STATE UNIVERSITY
2229 Lincoln Way
AMES,IA 50011
Performing Department
MECHANICAL ENGINEERING - ENG
Non Technical Summary
The Institute of Biological Engineering (IBE) 2024One Health-themed annual meeting aims to address pressing global challenges at the intersection of bioengineering and public health. In a world facing increasing threats from pandemics, environmental degradation, and food insecurity, understanding the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health has never been more critical. By bringing together experts, researchers, and students from diverse backgrounds including from academia, government and industry, this conference seeks to explore innovative solutions that promote holistic approaches to health and sustainability.Through a series of engaging activities, including keynote addresses, workshops, and student competitions, the conference will facilitate knowledge exchange and collaboration. Graduate, undergraduate, and high school students will have the opportunity to explore cutting-edge technologies and concepts, inspiring the next generation of scientists and innovators. Additionally, the conference will feature discussions on the practical applications of bioengineering in industry, highlighting the potential for transformative solutions in healthcare, agriculture, and environmental conservation.Ultimately, the IBE 2024 One Health-themed conference aspires to catalyze interdisciplinary collaboration and drive innovation towards a healthier, more sustainable future. By fostering dialogue and sharing expertise, the conference aims to contribute to the development of impactful solutions that address global health challenges and benefit society as a whole.
Animal Health Component
50%
Research Effort Categories
Basic
50%
Applied
50%
Developmental
0%
Classification

Knowledge Area (KA)Subject of Investigation (SOI)Field of Science (FOS)Percent
9037110202034%
9037410202033%
9036299202033%
Knowledge Area
903 - Communication, Education, and Information Delivery;

Subject Of Investigation
7110 - Research on research management; 6299 - Marketing, general/other; 7410 - General technology;

Field Of Science
2020 - Engineering;
Goals / Objectives
Our long-term goal is to strengthen the emerging field of bioengineering so that it becomes an established, distinct discipline in academia with qualities that are sought after by employers in industry and government agencies alike. The goal of this proposal is to broaden the reach and increase the participation of the 2024 IBE annual meeting to strengthen the bioengineering discipline and demonstrate its utility in bridging the scientific gaps that often occurs at the intersection of the diverse research fields associated with One Health (i.e., animal, human, and environmental health) and USDA-NIFA program priority areas.The overall goals of the conference are the following.1. Advancing Scientific Knowledge: One of the most significant broader impacts of this conference is the advancement of scientific knowledge and understanding in the discipline of bioengineering. By bringing together experts from academia, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations, the conference will facilitate the exchange of cutting-edge research, innovative technologies, and best practices. This cross-pollination of ideas and expertise can lead to breakthroughs in addressing complex challenges related to One Health.2. Fostering Interdisciplinary Collaboration: The conference will have a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration which is crucial towards addressing the scientific gaps that often occur at the intersection of the diverse research fields associated with One Health. By fostering collaboration between experts in human, animal, and environmental health, attendees can explore new avenues for research and develop holistic solutions to related challenges. This collaborative spirit can extend beyond the conference, leading to long-term partnerships and joint research projects that have a lasting impact.3. Training the Next Generation of Innovators: By involving a mix of academic institutions, companies, non-profit organizations, and government agencies, the conference can inspire and educate the next generation of bioengineers and scientists. Students and early-career researchers will have the opportunity to learn from established experts, participate in discussions, and gain valuable insights into the real-world applications of their work. Graduate, undergraduates, and high school students will have opportunities to give oral and/or poster presentations on their research and attend educational workshops. The conference will also provide a platform aspiring student entrepreneurs who would like to showcase their innovation.4. Informing Public Policy: The conference's proximity to the CDC and its involvement in public health policy and advocacy adds a crucial dimension to the proposal's broader impacts. The knowledge shared and discussions held at the event can inform public policy decisions related to One Health and agricultural technology. This, in turn, can lead to more effective and evidence-based policies that address health threats or support sustainable farming practices for example.5. Strengthening Industry and Government Partnerships: The ability to bring local industry and government agency representatives to the conference will invariably strengthen collaboration with academia. Industry representatives attending the conference can identify talent, potential research collaborators, and innovative solutions that align with their needs. Government agencies can benefit from the expertise and research findings presented, potentially leading to more effective public health initiatives and research funding opportunities.6. Promote Diversity and Inclusion: Our overarching goal is to create an inclusive and diverse conference environment that reflects and celebrates the richness of perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences within the fields of bioengineering and One Health, and agriculture. We aim to actively encourage the participation of individuals from underrepresented groups, including those of diverse gender, race, ethnicity, socioeconomic background, disability status, and geographic origin.
Project Methods
Efforts:The IBE 2024 One Health Conference is poised to deliver a dynamic and enriching experience through a diverse array of planned activities, each meticulously designed to foster collaboration, knowledge exchange, and innovation at the intersection of bioengineering and the One Health theme. A portion of the grant funds requested will be allocated towards essential conference infrastructure, including technical session rooms, an expo hall, and a dinner banquet, essential for hosting the conference's multifaceted programs (see Budget Justification). Additional funding will support invited speaker honorariums, student travel awards, and prizes for the student poster competition (see Budget Justification as well). This annual conference will feature the following special programming alongside technical sessions:Keynote Addresses:The conference's success hinges on the quality and relevance of its keynote speakers, selected through a meticulous process to ensure alignment with the One Health theme. Keynote speakers will embody diverse perspectives, career stages, and areas of expertise, fostering inclusivity and interdisciplinary dialogue. Their presentations will emphasize the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration and inspiring the conference attendees.Speed Networking:The conference will feature speed networking sessions, offering attendees a streamlined platform to connect with peers and experts across disciplines. Attendees will have the opportunity to exchange ideas, explore potential partnerships, and expand their professional networks within a time-efficient framework.Field Visit to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):Conference attendees will have the unique opportunity to visit the CDC, gaining firsthand insights into the organization's groundbreaking work in public health and disease control. This immersive experience will include tours of CDC departments and laboratories, interactive discussions with experts, and presentations on topics relevant to One Health. The visit aims to enrich attendees' understanding of global health challenges and the collaborative efforts to address them.Workshop for High School Students:A dedicated workshop will engage local high school students in hands-on activities and discussions centered on biosensors, nanomaterials, and the One Health concept. Through interactive sessions and mentorship opportunities, students will gain valuable insights into potential career paths and the societal impact of their scientific pursuits.Student Poster Competitions:The conference will host a student poster competition, showcasing innovative research from undergraduate and graduate students. Judged based on scientific quality, clarity, and relevance to the conference themes, the competition aims to recognize and reward outstanding contributions to the field. Cash awards and prizes will incentivize student participation, fostering a spirit of academic excellence and encouraging future research endeavors.Bioengineering in Industry and Career Panel:A highlight session will explore the role of bioengineering in industry, featuring experts from academia and leading companies. Topics will span biomanufacturing, biomedical devices, sustainable agriculture, and environmental biotechnology, highlighting the practical applications of bioengineering innovations. A career panel will offer insights into diverse career paths within bioengineering, providing attendees with valuable guidance and networking opportunities.Workshop: Charting the Future of Bioengineering within the One Health Paradigm:This forward-looking workshop will convene experts to discuss future directions in bioengineering within the framework of One Health. Panel discussions and interactive sessions will generate insights and strategies, culminating in a journal article perspective for publication. The workshop aims to shape the trajectory of bioengineering research, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration and addressing global health challenges.Future Innovators Biodesign Challenge: The Bio Fidget Spinner:High school students will participate in a biodesign competition, tasked with creating biologically-inspired devices such as a bio fidget spinner. This hands-on challenge encourages creativity, practical learning, and interdisciplinary collaboration, preparing students for future careers in bioengineering and fostering a passion for scientific innovation.Industry Expo:The conference will feature an industry expo, providing a platform for academia-industry collaboration and showcasing the latest advancements in bioengineering. Established and startup companies will exhibit their products and services, facilitating networking opportunities and promoting technology transfer. The expo will foster collaboration, accelerate research translation, and inspire attendees with real-world applications of bioengineering.By incorporating these diverse activities into the conference program, the IBE 2024 One Health Conference aims to create a vibrant and inclusive environment conducive to collaboration, innovation, and professional development in bioengineering and One Health.Evaluation:The evaluation of the IBE One Health Conference will encompass various types of studies aimed at assessing its impact on the intended audience and overall effectiveness in achieving its objectives. Key milestones and measurable indicators of success will be identified and tracked throughout the planning, implementation, and post-conference phases.Types of evaluation studies planned include:Pre-Conference Surveys: Surveys will be administered to participants before the conference to assess their expectations, interests, and knowledge levels related to bioengineering and One Health topics. This will provide baseline data for comparison with post-conference feedback.Post-Conference Surveys: Surveys will be distributed to participants after the conference to gather feedback on the quality of presentations, relevance of topics, networking opportunities, and overall satisfaction with the event. Quantitative data, such as ratings and Likert scale responses, will be collected to gauge attendee perceptions.Attendance and Participation Metrics: Attendance records and participation rates in various conference activities, including sessions, workshops, and networking events, will be tracked. This will help evaluate the level of engagement and interest among attendees.Feedback from Key Stakeholders: Feedback will be sought from keynote speakers, session chairs, sponsors, and exhibitors to assess their experiences and satisfaction with the conference. Qualitative data from interviews or focus groups may be collected to capture in-depth insights.Long-Term Impact Assessment: Follow-up surveys or interviews may be conducted several months after the conference to assess the long-term impact on attendees' knowledge, skills, and professional networks. Indicators such as career advancements, research collaborations initiated, and publications resulting from conference interactions will be monitored.Data collected from these evaluation studies will be analyzed to measure the success of the conference in achieving its goals and objectives. Key indicators of success may include increased knowledge dissemination, enhanced networking opportunities, greater diversity and inclusivity, and tangible outcomes such as research collaborations or policy recommendations stemming from conference discussions. The evaluation findings will be used to inform future conference planning and improve the overall effectiveness and impact of the IBE One Health Conference.

Progress 03/15/24 to 03/14/25

Outputs
Target Audience:During the reporting period, the Institute of Biological Engineering (IBE) engaged over 100 attendees at our IBE 2024 Annual Meeting, which brought together a broad range of academic researchers, educators, undergraduate and graduate students, and industry collaborators. We specifically targeted individuals from academic and industry sectors who are advancing innovative biological solutions. To achieve this, we conducted outreach to academic and industry leaders across universities with strong programs in biology, chemistry, and engineering. These efforts included direct contact with faculty and researchers whose work aligns with IBE's mission to promote biological innovation. Of the attendees, approximately 50 were students (both undergraduate and graduate levels), and an additional 50 were faculty members from institutions both local and international. Notable institutions represented at the meeting included Utah State University, The Pennsylvania State University, University of Georgia, James Madison University, Iowa State University, University of Florida, University of Arizona, University of Tennessee, Michigan State University, University of Kentucky, Clemson University, Georgia Institute of Technology, and University of Valle, among others. A key component of our outreach was the Student Travel Award program, which provided financial support totaling $6,700 to 15 students from underrepresented regions. This program enabled their participation in the conference, allowing them to present their research through poster sessions and oral presentations. The inclusion of these students was particularly valuable in enhancing the exchange of knowledge and fostering global collaboration in biological engineering. Over 75% of the attendees were members of IBE, reflecting their commitment to the organization's goals and demonstrating the success of our efforts to engage individuals who are passionate about advancing biological engineering. The event also attracted participation from other professional societies, further fostering interdisciplinary collaboration. The Annual Meeting featured presentations from key industry leaders, including keynote speakers Dr. Ranu Jung, Founding Executive Director & Endowed Chair of the University of Arkansas's Institute for Integrative and Innovative Research, and Dr. Ramanan Laxminarayan, Founder and President of the One Health Trust. Their presentations bridged the gap between academia and industry, offering attendees insight into how cutting-edge research translates into real-world impact. These talks also exemplified the IBE's commitment to fostering dialogue between researchers and industry professionals, promoting the application of research to societal challenges. In addition to the Annual Meeting, IBE's outreach efforts extended through dozens of student branches that actively support the organization's mission of promoting biological innovation. These branches are integral in spreading awareness about the potential of biological engineering and actively engage with local communities. The IBE also extended its reach by promoting the organization's work at other university events and symposiums throughout the year. This broad group of attendees -- which included students from underrepresented backgrounds, academic faculty, and industry professionals -- represents the key target audience for IBE's mission. By focusing on these groups, we not only foster a deeper understanding of biological engineering but also ensure that research and innovation in this field continue to grow and address the needs of society, both locally and globally. Changes/Problems: Nothing Reported What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?The 2024 IBE Annual Meeting successfully provided a platform for training the next generation of bioengineers and scientists by engaging a diverse mix of academic institutions, companies, non-profit organizations, and government agencies. This broad representation allowed students and early-career researchers to learn from established experts, participate in meaningful discussions, and gain valuable insights into the real-world applications of their work. The conference included students from various educational levels, including undergraduate, graduate, and high school students. More than 50% of the attendees were students, reflecting the strong emphasis placed on engaging the next generation. These students had the opportunity to present their research through oral and poster presentations, contributing to the exchange of knowledge and showcasing their innovative ideas. Additionally, students participated in educational workshops, further enhancing their skills and understanding of the field. To support student participation, the Student Travel Award program provided financial assistance to 15 students, totaling $6,700. This initiative enabled students from diverse backgrounds, including international attendees, to present their research and engage with professionals at the forefront of bioengineering. By offering this opportunity, the conference helped inspire aspiring bioengineers and foster the growth of future innovators. The event also provided a platform for aspiring student entrepreneurs to showcase their innovative work, encouraging an entrepreneurial mindset alongside scientific discovery. Notably, academic institutions such as Utah State University, The Pennsylvania State University, University of Georgia, and several others, as well as companies like Advensys LLC and One Health Trust, played pivotal roles in supporting the conference and contributing to the development of students as future leaders in bioengineering. By connecting students with leading experts and offering opportunities to showcase their work, the conference made a significant impact on the education and career development of the next generation of bioengineering innovators. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?The results of the 2024 IBE Annual Meeting have been actively disseminated to relevant communities of interest through various strategic channels, ensuring broad engagement with both academic and industry audiences. TheIBE 2024 Annual Meetingplayed a crucial role in advancing scientific knowledge in bioengineering, particularly within the context of One Health. The meeting featured 62 spoken presentations, 21 poster presentations, and one panel discussion on biological engineering education, organized into 11 sessions across seven key topics. These sessions facilitated the exchange of cutting-edge research, fostering a dynamic environment for knowledge-sharing among researchers, educators, and professionals. We expect that many of these research presentations and subsequent discussions will lead to other presentations at other conferences as well as to publication ofpeer-revieved journal articles. To further disseminate the findings, aspecial edition of the Journal of Biological Engineering, titled"Selected Papers from IBE 2024,"has been launched. This issue, edited by Dr. Raj Raghavendra Rao (University of Arkansas) and Dr. Jeong-Yeol Yoon (University of Arizona), will publish high-quality papers based on the research presented at the meeting. The submission deadline for this special edition is March 31, 2025, ensuring that key insights from the conference reach a global audience, particularly in fields like bioenvironmental engineering, biological sensing, bioprocessing, and public health. In addition to academic outreach, the meeting included substantial engagement with industry. The conference collaborated withAdvensys LLCandOne Health Trustto foster connections between researchers and industry professionals. These partnerships were instrumental in facilitating discussions about the practical applications of the research presented at the meeting. Industry-specific sessions and networking opportunities allowed direct interaction, creating a platform for collaboration, technology transfer, and the identification of potential partnerships. These efforts are crucial for ensuring that cutting-edge research is aligned with industry needs and can drive forward real-world solutions. By combining the academic dissemination through the meeting and journal with active engagement from industry partners likeAdvensys LLCandOne Health Trust, the 2024 IBE Annual Meeting has successfully reached a wide range of stakeholders. This integrated approach is fostering long-term collaborations and accelerating innovation at the intersection of bioengineering, public health, and industry. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?We are excited to announce that preparations are underway for another fruitful IBE conference, this time in Salt Lake City, Utah, in September 2025. The theme of this conference, "Innovation through Biological Engineering," will highlight groundbreaking advancements and interdisciplinary approaches in the field. In addition to showcasing cutting-edge research, we will be celebrating the 30th anniversary of the Institute of Biological Engineering, marking three decades of progress and collaboration in biological engineering.

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? Advancing Scientific Knowledge: The 2024 IBE Annual Meeting advanced scientific knowledge in bioengineering, especially in the context of One Health. The conference featured 62 spoken presentations, 21 poster presentations, and one panel discussion on biological engineering education, organized into 11 sessions across seven key topics. Sustainable Fuels and Chemicals for One Health: Topics included data-driven solvent discovery, bioethanol production, pyrolysis of forest residue, and lignin degradation, aiming for sustainable energy and materials solutions. Bioenvironmental Engineering for One Health: Presentations covered in-situ hydrogen generation, microbial fuel cells, microplastic assays, cable bacteria, and algae biofilm reactors, addressing environmental challenges for public health. Precision Agriculture for One Health: Focused on optimizing algorithms for tracking broilers, predicting aflatoxin hotspots, and machine learning for water management, advancing agricultural practices in human health. Biological Sensing and Diagnostics: Research covered bacteria detection, phage protein-based biosensors, cell-based electrochemical biosensors for Hepatitis A, and machine learning for pathogen detection. Emerging Topics in Biological Engineering: Featured innovations in 3D printed biocompatible polymers, algae for sustainable meat production, ethical AI, and fungi for future materials. From Linear to Circular Bioeconomy Systems: Addressed circular bioeconomy concepts, including forest biomass, ice cream waste valorization, and biology-inspired engineering. Synthetic Biology and Metabolic Engineering: Focused on designing genetic circuits and exploring the potential of synthetic biology in healthcare, agriculture, and environmental protection. The poster session provided further opportunities for researchers to engage in informal discussions on topics such as glioblastoma cell mechanics and carbon nanotube characterization, enhancing networking and collaboration. This collective effort advanced scientific knowledge and fostered interdisciplinary solutions across health, agriculture, and the environment. Fostering Interdisciplinary Collaboration: The conference emphasized interdisciplinary collaboration, bringing together experts from diverse fields such as biomedical engineering, synthetic biology, environmental engineering, bioinformatics, and bioethics. Discussions spanned topics like emerging biological engineering approaches and circular bioeconomy systems, fostering cross-disciplinary dialogues that inspired new research directions and potential partnerships.The "Emerging Topics in Biological Engineering" session exemplified this collaborative environment, facilitating connections between experts from varying disciplines. These interactions promoted holistic approaches to health, environmental, and agricultural challenges, laying the groundwork for ongoing joint research projects and long-term partnerships. Training the Next Generation of Innovators: The 2024 IBE Annual Meeting provided significant training and professional development opportunities, offering students exposure to cutting-edge research and enabling them to interact with leading experts. Through sessions, poster presentations, and mentorship, students gained valuable insights and skills essential for careers in bioengineering and One Health. Informing Public Policy: The conference played a crucial role in informing public policy by engaging experts in discussions on One Health and agricultural technology. Keynote speakers like Dr. Ramanan Laxminarayan, founder of the One Health Trust, shaped conversations on the intersection of human, animal, and environmental health, offering insights that could influence policy decisions.Sessions such as "From Linear to Circular Bioeconomy Systems" and "Precision Agriculture for One Health" provided actionable insights for policymakers on sustainable agricultural practices and bioeconomy systems. These discussions contributed to developing evidence-based policies for improving public health outcomes and supporting sustainable farming practices. Strengthening Industry and Government Partnerships: The conference strengthened collaborations between industry, government, and academia, facilitating dialogue on addressing One Health challenges. Industry speakers, such as Dr. Ranu Jung of Advensys LLC, and government representatives highlighted the importance of bridging research with real-world applications. These exchanges opened avenues for future research partnerships, technology transfer, and policy development. By connecting researchers, industry leaders, and government officials, the conference contributed to advancing innovations and solutions in health, agriculture, and environmental sectors. Promoting Diversity and Inclusion: The IBE 2024 Annual Meeting created an inclusive environment by encouraging participation from individuals with diverse academic and professional backgrounds. The conference attracted attendees from 15 universities worldwide, fostering a rich exchange of ideas and perspectives. The Student Travel Award program supported 15 students, ensuring broad representation.By integrating a wide range of research topics, including sustainable agriculture and biomedical innovation, the conference allowed participants to present solutions with global potential. This inclusive approach facilitated the exchange of ideas, ensuring diverse voices contributed to advancing the One Health framework.

Publications

  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Accepted Year Published: 2024 Citation: 62 spoken presentations 21 poster presentation 1 panel discussion focusing on biological engineering education https://ibe.org/2024-annual-conference/
  • Type: Other Journal Articles Status: Awaiting Publication Year Published: 2025 Citation: Special Edition of the Journal of Biological Engineers Selected Papers from IBE 2024 Edited by: Raj Raghavendra Rao, PhD, University of Arkansas, United States Jeong-Yeol Yoon, PhD, The University of Arizona, United States Submission Status: Open | Submission Deadline: 31 March 2025 https://www.biomedcentral.com/collections/SPIBE2024