Women in Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering: past, present and future

Area of Science:

• Medical Physics
• Biomedical Engineering
• Gender Studies in STEM

Background:

• The Women in Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering (WiMPBME) Task Group was established in 2014 under the International Union of Physical and Engineering Scientists in Medicine (IUPESM).
• Historically, various women's groups and subcommittees have worked towards gender equity in these fields since 2004.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize the goals and activities of the WiMPBME Task Group.
• To motivate, nurture, and support women in medical physics and biomedical engineering throughout their careers.
• To outline future aims for achieving gender balance in these professions.

Main Methods:

• Review of past, present, and planned activities of the WiMPBME Task Group.
• Historical analysis of women's groups and subcommittees in the field.
• Strategic planning for future gender-equity initiatives.

Main Results:

• The WiMPBME Task Group has undertaken various projects to address women's needs and roles.
• A historical overview highlights the evolution of support for women in these disciplines.
• Future plans focus on continued professional development and gender-balanced advancement.

Conclusions:

• The WiMPBME Task Group plays a crucial role in supporting and advancing women in medical physics and biomedical engineering.
• Continued efforts are necessary to ensure gender balance and equitable opportunities in these scientific fields.
• The historical perspective provides valuable insights for future strategic planning and implementation.