SEFAS Duo Lead the Newly Established Norwegian Chapter of EMBS

Monica Patrascu and Valentina Casadei, both postdoctoral researchers at Centre for Elderly and Nursing Home Medicine (SEFAS) have recently been appointed Chair and Vice Chair, respectively, of the newly established Norwegian chapter of the Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society (EMBS)—a branch of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE).  IEEE is the world’s largest technical professional organization, dedicated to advancing technology for the benefit of humanity. It is composed by several branches, each focused on specific engineering disciplines, with the EMBS specialized in the application of engineering to medicine and biology. 

Why Establish a Norwegian Chapter?

Patrascu explains the motivation behind founding the Norwegian chapter of EMBS:

“Norway has not had a chapter of this society until now and we have observed rapid professional development in the field, particularly around the University of Bergen. This growth is not just among scholars but also among companies working in healthcare technology. We felt it was important to create a structured way to connect professionals across Norway—to facilitate knowledge-sharing, dissemination, and organized activities.”

The Norwegian Chapter of EMBS was officially established in December of 2024. Monica Patrascu serves as Chapter Chair, while Valentina Casadei holds the position of Vice Chair.

Casadei highlights the academic importance of IEEE:

“IEEE and EMBS also publish and manage highly recognized journals, bridging the gap between academia and industry. We hope this chapter will serve as a medium where both fields can collaborate, share knowledge, and explore future opportunities.”

The duo has ambitious plans for the new chapter—including engaging students.

“We envision this as a technology hub for students, including those from clinical backgrounds. Since EMBS focuses on engineering in medicine and biology, knowledge of medicine and biology is just as crucial to interdisiplinary development,” says Patrascu.

Workshops and Courses

One of the key initiatives of the Norwegian EMBS chapter is to develop workshops and courses tailored for professionals with diverse backgrounds.

“We’re designing courses that can either be integrated into existing programs or stand alone. Many professionals—clinicians, nurses, physiotherapists, psychologists—are deeply interested in technology, but university courses are often designed for students with backgrounds in other subjects. There’s a gap we need to bridge. Our goal is to increase understanding of various technologies and how they can be applied in healthcare.”

SEFAS and EMBS Norway Chapter are committed to bridging this knowledge gap between engineering and medicine.

“That’s the essence of biomedical engineering—bringing together professionals from both fields. As an engineer entering the medical field, I found it challenging. The same, I believe, applies to medical professionals stepping into engineering. But the field is evolving, and technology is becoming an important part of medical practice. We have exciting opportunities in front of us,” Patrascu adds.

Expanding Networks and Funding Opportunities

One of the greatest benefits of joining EMBS is networking with professionals that share the same interests.

“You can’t just open a phone book and find experts who share the same interests. EMBS provides a platform where professionals can connect, collaborate, and find the right people within this specialized network,” Patrascu explains.

Casadei is particularly excited about the opportunities this chapter will explore:

“This is the first EMBS chapter in Norway—nothing like this has existed before. It opens doors, not just within Norway but internationally. This is what I mean when it comes to the concept of a technology hub. We want to create a platform where professionals from Norway and abroad can meet. Since EMBS is backed by IEEE, we also gain easier access to funding opportunities.”

Patrascu provides an example:

“This summer, there’s an IEEE EMBS conference in Copenhagen where both academics and industry professionals will be present. Researchers will showcase their work, while company representatives will present their technologies. These interactions create new opportunities—and it’s all made possible through our membership in EMBS.”

They also emphasize the importance of showcasing Norwegian research and industry internationally and staying up-to-date with current trends in both academia and technology.

Why IEEE?

Why did they choose IEEE over other organizations?

“Because IEEE is global and well-established. Being part of it offers many advantages, including financial benefits—reduced conference fees and funding for local events. IEEE also has a strong student branch, making it easier for students to integrate into the field and connect with peers—locally, nationally, and internationally." Patrascu explains. 

"Additionally, IEEE has the Women in Engineering Society, which is important in a historically male-dominated field. IEEE spans multiple continents, and Norway is part of Region 8, which includes Europe and Africa. This extensive network makes it easier to collaborate across borders.”

How to Join the Norwegian Chapter

Casadei explains that becoming a member is simple:

“You need to be a member of EMBS, and if you are based in Norway, you will automatically become part of the Norwegian chapter. One of our first steps will be to establish regular online meetings so that professionals from across the country can participate.”