Summer Biomechanics, Bioengineering, and Biotransport Conference

This proposal supports the 2023-2025 Summer Biomechanics, Bioengineering, and Biotransport Conferences (SB3C). SB3C fills an important niche by providing a broad based, mid-sized meeting focused on bioengineering. The SB3C program includes plenary, oral, and poster sessions covering scientific content in Cell and Tissue Mechanics, Fluid Mechanics, Biotransport, Design and Rehabilitation, Solid Mechanics, and Education. SB3C offers interactive workshops on topics including mentorship, professional development, novel educational approaches, and advanced research techniques. The mission of SB3C is to promote state-of-the-art research, collaboration, and scientific discourse. SB3C is a student-focused conference, with students typically comprising over 50% of attendees. Students at all levels can participate in the Student Paper Competition; network with established investigators at mentorship and leadership workshops; and enjoy social interactions with peers. SB3C awards travel grants to enable students in biomechanics to attend the conference and keeps student registration fees low by seeking support from government, industry, and academic sponsors. The SB3C Organizing Committee includes a wide range of experienced SB3C organizers and emerging leaders in bioengineering. We will continue successful prior programs and innovate in several ways. The specific aim of this proposal is to support student participation in SB3C 2023-2025, with the goal of increasing the number of student attendees who would otherwise not have the means to attend the conference. We seek financial support from the NIH to maintain low registration fees and provide travel funds to meet this goal. We are confident that we can create a high-quality in-person conference with high-quality virtual content.