World’s Leading BioMag Experts Coming to Nova Scotia

BioMag 2014, the world’s largest conference on the science of biomagnetism, pulls into Halifax, Nova Scotia at the end of August. The scientific program for the 19th biennial installment focuses on applications to healthcare —a direction that has generated enthusiasm in research and clinical communities.

The BioMag conference explores the science of using magnetic fields to image the body and brain function (biomagnetism). This year’s conference includes and places special emphasis on translation, or turning research into clinical practice.

"By bringing clinicians, researchers, and industry personnel together at BioMag," says Halifax-based scientist and biomagnetism pioneer Dr. Gerhard Stroink, "we're working to ensure that important research makes it into the hospitals, providing the best diagnosis and care possible for patients."

The conference program includes educational opportunities, software workshops, as well as a long list of presentations by high-profile scientists in the field. The International Society for the Advancement of Clinical MEG (magnetoencephalography), a society focused on using biomagnetism research in the clinical management of patients with neurological disorders, is offering a series of clinically-focussed events at the conference.

Dr. Matt Brookes, a UK-based scientist, will chair the “Zero to Hero” educational course being offered for the first time at the BioMag conference. Brookes views the course as “a unique opportunity to offer young scientists a chance to learn from the world’s best researchers.”

A veteran of past BioMag conferences, Brookes is relishing the opportunity to contribute to this multidisciplinary meeting that anticipates attendance of up to 600 delegates from all sectors.

Brookes believes the large poster sessions are another key draw to BioMag 2014. In his view, these sessions offer a great opportunity to have in-depth discussions with researchers from across the globe.

“Of all of the collaborative work I have been involved in,” notes Brookes, “much of it began in the poster halls at BioMag.”

While BioMag 2014 will provide an unparalleled venue for charting the future of biomagnetism research, science isn’t the only draw for international attendees.

“I have been to Canada several times and I always look forward to visiting,” says Brookes. “It’s a really beautiful country!”

Registration for the BioMag conference is now open. The scientific program can be viewed at the conference website: www.biomag2014.org.