Professor Paul Barach

Expert in Patient Safety & Healthcare Systems

Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, USA

Professor Paul Barach is an internationally recognized expert in patient safety, healthcare systems engineering, and human factors, with a long career spanning leading academic and clinical institutions worldwide. He has played a pivotal role in developing modern approaches to quality improvement, perioperative safety, and team-based medical education, influencing policy and practice across multiple countries. Through his research, advisory work, and global collaborations, he remains one of the most influential voices shaping safer, more resilient, and learning-oriented healthcare systems.

Professor Desmond H. Birkett

Professor of Surgery and Surgical Education

 Lahey Hospital & Medical Center, Burlington, USA

Professor Desmond H. Birkett is a highly respected surgeon, educator, and leader in the field of surgical training and minimally invasive surgery. He is widely recognized for his longstanding commitment to advancing surgical education, competency-based training, and the integration of modern technologies into surgical practice. His professional work focuses on improving the quality and safety of surgical care through structured training programs, simulation-based education, and the assessment of technical and non-technical surgical skills. Professor Birkett has played a significant role in the development of national and international curricula aimed at standardizing surgical training and enhancing patient outcomes. As an influential academic and mentor, Professor Birkett has contributed extensively to teaching, professional development, and interdisciplinary collaboration. His leadership and dedication have had a lasting impact on generations of surgeons and on the evolution of modern surgical education worldwide.

Professor Fady T. Charbel

Renowned Neurosurgeon

University of Illinois, Chicago, USA

Professor Fady T. Charbel is an internationally renowned neurosurgeon at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC), recognized for his pioneering work in cerebrovascular surgery and intraoperative blood-flow technologies. As a leader in neurovascular innovation, he developed groundbreaking methods for quantitative flow measurement that transformed the management of complex aneurysms and arterial occlusive diseases. His scientific contributions, extensive clinical expertise, and global educational impact have positioned him as one of the most influential figures in modern neurosurgery.

Professor Przemysław Czuma

President, Polish Society for Artificial Intelligence

AI & Clinical Innovation

Dr. Przemysław Czuma is a leading Polish expert in artificial intelligence and clinical innovation, integrating advanced AI methodologies with modern surgical and medical applications. As the President of the Polish Society for Artificial Intelligence, he plays a key national role in shaping the development, ethical governance, and interdisciplinary adoption of AI technologies in medicine, engineering, and industry. Through his research, educational activities, and international collaborations, he contributes significantly to the advancement of next-generation intelligent healthcare systems in Europe.

Professor Jenny Dankelman

Professor of Medical Technology and Surgical Innovation

 Leiden University, Netherlands

Professor Jenny Dankelman is an internationally recognized expert in medical technology, surgical innovation, and minimally invasive surgery. She is renowned for her pioneering work at the intersection of engineering and medicine, particularly in the development and evaluation of advanced surgical instruments, robotic systems, and image-guided technologies. Her research focuses on improving surgical precision, safety, and ergonomics through innovative device design and human-centered engineering. Professor Dankelman has made significant contributions to translational research, bridging fundamental engineering principles with clinical application to enhance patient outcomes and operating room efficiency. As a highly respected academic leader, educator, and mentor, Professor Dankelman has played a key role in shaping international standards in surgical technology research and education. She is actively involved in multidisciplinary collaborations and has contributed extensively to scientific publications, guideline development, and the training of future generations of surgeon–engineers.

Professor Michele Diana

Head of Research, IRCAD Strasbourg

University Hospital of Geneva, Switzerland

Professor Michele Diana is an internationally recognized surgeon-scientist and one of the leading innovators in surgical data science, robotic surgery, and image-guided interventions. Head of Research at IRCAD Strasbourg, he has played a key role in advancing computer-assisted surgery, integrating artificial intelligence, augmented reality, and intraoperative imaging into clinical workflows. His work continues to shape the future of precision surgery worldwide, bridging engineering, data science, and advanced minimally invasive techniques.

Professor John van den Dobbelsteen

Director of Studies of the joint degrees

Clinical Technology and Technical Medicine at Delft University of Technology

Professor John van den Dobbelsteen is an internationally recognized biomedical engineer and academic leader, renowned for his contributions to medical device innovation, minimally invasive technologies, and translational research at the interface of engineering and medicine. His work focuses on the design, development, and clinical validation of advanced surgical instruments and implantable medical technologies, with a strong emphasis on patient safety and usability. He has played a key role in fostering interdisciplinary collaboration between engineers, clinicians, and industry partners, supporting the successful translation of research concepts into clinical practice. Professor van den Dobbelsteen is also deeply committed to education and mentorship, actively contributing to the training of biomedical engineers and clinician–scientists. Through his research, leadership, and international collaborations, Professor van den Dobbelsteen has significantly influenced the advancement of modern medical technology and innovation-driven healthcare.

Professor Denis Ehrl

Reconstructive and Aesthetic Plastic Surgeon

Paracelsus Medical University, Nuremberg, Germany

Denis Ehrl is a distinguished German surgeon specializing in gastrointestinal and hepatobiliary surgery, known for his expertise in complex minimally invasive and oncological procedures. His scientific work focuses on surgical outcomes research, innovation in perioperative care, and the development of modern digital decision-support tools in surgery. As an academic leader and educator, he plays a key role in shaping the next generation of clinicians through his work at leading German university hospitals.

Professor Harald Fischer

Professor of Surgery and Surgical Innovation

Professor Harald Fischer is a distinguished surgeon and academic recognized for his contributions to modern surgery, surgical education, and clinical innovation. His professional work focuses on the integration of advanced surgical techniques with evidence-based practice, emphasizing patient safety, quality assurance, and the continuous improvement of surgical outcomes. Professor Fischer has been actively involved in academic teaching and postgraduate medical education, contributing to the development of structured training programs for young surgeons. His expertise spans both clinical practice and applied research, with particular interest in surgical technologies, procedural standardization, and interdisciplinary collaboration. As a respected educator and mentor, Professor Fischer has played an important role in shaping contemporary surgical practice through teaching, scientific publications, and participation in national and international professional societies.

Michael Friebe

Expert in Medical Imaging & Health-Tech Innovation

Otto-von-Guericke-University Magdeburg, Germany

Professor Michael Friebe is an internationally recognized expert in medical imaging, interventional technology, and health-tech innovation, with a long academic and entrepreneurial career in Germany and abroad. He has contributed significantly to the development of advanced imaging systems, minimally invasive device technologies, and translational solutions that bridge engineering, clinical needs, and industry. As a researcher, inventor, and educator, he is a key figure shaping the future of medical technology and guiding the next generation of innovators in image-guided and AI-assisted healthcare.

Dr. Isabella Frigerio, MD, PhD, FACS

Internationally recognized oncologic and HPB surgeon

Pederzoli Hospital, Peschiera del Garda, Italy

Dr. Isabella Frigerio, MD, PhD, FACS is an internationally recognized oncologic and HPB surgeon based in Italy, with a strong clinical and academic focus on pancreatic and hepatobiliary surgery. She holds a national qualification as Associate Professor of General Surgery and is actively involved in European surgical leadership, including roles within EDS and E-AHPBA. Her work combines high-level clinical practice, surgical education, and innovation, with particular interest in multidisciplinary cancer care and the future of surgery.

Professor Andrew Gumbs

Editor in Chef, Artificial Intelligence Surgery

Antoine Béclère Hospital, Paris, France

Professor Andrew Gumbs is one of the world's leading experts in minimally invasive surgery, specializing in advanced laparoscopy and gastrointestinal oncology. He combines exceptional surgical precision with deep translational insight, bringing innovative technologies and minimally invasive techniques into clinical practice. His scientific and educational contributions have shaped modern surgical standards across both Europe and the United States.

Professor Christoph Hirche

Professor of Reconstructive and Plastic Surgery

BG Trauma Hospital, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
 

Professor Christoph Hirche is a distinguished surgeon and academic specializing in reconstructive and plastic surgery, with a particular focus on microsurgery, hand surgery, and complex soft-tissue reconstruction. His clinical and scientific work addresses innovative surgical techniques aimed at restoring function and improving quality of life in patients following trauma, tumor resection, and congenital or acquired defects. His research interests include translational surgical research, outcome assessment, and the integration of modern technologies into reconstructive procedures. Professor Hirche is actively involved in advancing surgical education and has contributed to the development of structured training concepts for young surgeons. As an experienced clinician, researcher, and educator, Professor Hirche is widely recognized for his interdisciplinary approach and his commitment to evidence-based medicine. Through his academic leadership and international collaborations, he has made meaningful contributions to the advancement of reconstructive surgery and surgical training.

Professor Dr. Tim Horeman-Franse

Associate Professor of Surgical Technology, Delft University of Technology (TU Delft)

Delft University of Technology, Netherlands

Professor Dr. Tim Horeman-Ferenze is an internationally recognized expert in surgical technology and biomedical engineering, with a particular focus on the development, validation, and clinical translation of innovative surgical instruments and robotic systems. He holds an academic appointment at Delft University of Technology (TU Delft), where his work bridges engineering, surgery, and clinical practice. His research centers on human–instrument interaction, surgical ergonomics, objective performance metrics, and the design of intelligent tools to enhance precision, safety, and efficiency in minimally invasive and robotic surgery. Professor Horeman-Ferenze is widely known for his contributions to evidence-based surgical innovation, including the development of sensor-enabled instruments and data-driven training and assessment methodologies. As a dedicated educator and interdisciplinary collaborator, he plays a key role in advancing translational research and shaping the future of surgical robotics, surgical skills assessment, and technology-driven surgical education at an international level.

Professor Joris E. N. Jaspers

Professor of Reconstructive and Plastic Surgery

University Medical Center Utrecht, Netherlands

Professor Joris E. N. Jaspers is a distinguished surgeon and academic specializing in reconstructive and plastic surgery, with a particular emphasis on microsurgical reconstruction, hand surgery, and complex soft-tissue and limb reconstruction. His clinical and scientific work focuses on innovative reconstructive strategies aimed at restoring function and improving quality of life in patients after trauma, oncologic surgery, and congenital or acquired defects. His research interests include translational surgical research, outcome evaluation, and the integration of modern technologies and evidence-based approaches into reconstructive procedures. Professor Jaspers is actively engaged in advancing surgical education and has contributed to the development of structured training programs for residents and young surgeons. As an experienced clinician, researcher, and educator, Professor Jaspers is widely recognized for his interdisciplinary approach and strong commitment to patient-centered, evidence-based medicine. Through his academic leadership and international collaborations, he has made significant contributions to the advancement of reconstructive surgery and surgical training.

Professor Konrad Karcz

President, iSMIT 2026 World Congress

Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Germany

Professor Konrad Karcz is an experienced European surgeon specializing in reconstructive, plastic, robotic and minimally invasive surgery, with a strong academic background and extensive involvement in clinical innovation. His work integrates advanced imaging, robotics, AI-assisted decision support, and translational research, positioning him at the forefront of modern surgical technology development. As President of the iSMIT 2026 World Congress, he plays a key role in connecting clinicians, engineers, and industry leaders to shape the future of medical innovation and intelligent surgery.

Professor Tobias Keck

Chair of Surgery, University of Lübeck

University Hospital of Schleswig Holstein, Luebeck, Germany

Professor Tobias Keck is a leading German surgeon and Chair of the Department of Surgery at the University of Lübeck and the University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein (UKSH), renowned for his expertise in hepatopancreatobiliary (HPB) and upper gastrointestinal surgery. He also serves as President of DGAV, demonstrating his prominent role in national surgical and medical structures. His work integrates advanced minimally invasive and robotic techniques with translational research—particularly in pancreatic cancer, surgical outcomes, and digital innovations in surgery.

Professor Uwe Kreimeier

Distinguished Anesthesiologist

Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Germany

Professor Uwe Kreimeier is a distinguished German anesthesiologist and expert in perioperative medicine, critical care, and shock physiology, with a long academic career at the Ludwig Maximilian University (LMU) in Munich. His scientific work has significantly advanced the understanding of inflammation, fluid therapy, and metabolic responses to trauma, making him one of Europe's key authorities in anesthesiology and intensive care. Through his leadership in clinical practice, research, and international education, he has contributed profoundly to improving patient safety and modern perioperative standards.

Professor Axel Krieger

Leading Researcher in Surgical Robotics

Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, USA

Professor Axel Krieger is a leading researcher in surgical robotics at Johns Hopkins University, known internationally for developing advanced autonomous and semi-autonomous robotic systems for soft-tissue surgery. His team created the groundbreaking STAR robot, the first system to demonstrate supervised autonomous surgical suturing with human-level precision. Through his work at the intersection of engineering, AI, and clinical practice, he is shaping the future of intelligent robotic surgery and transforming how complex procedures can be performed.

Professor Gernot Kronreif

Professor of Medical Robotics and Biomechatronics

Professor Gernot Kronreif is an internationally recognized expert in medical robotics, biomechatronics, and assistive surgical technologies. His academic and research work focuses on the development, validation, and clinical translation of robotic and mechatronic systems for minimally invasive surgery, rehabilitation, and image-guided interventions. He has played a key role in advancing the integration of engineering and medicine, contributing to innovative solutions that enhance surgical precision, safety, and ergonomics. Professor Kronreif has led and participated in numerous national and international research projects, fostering collaboration between academic institutions, industry, and clinical partners. As a respected scientist, educator, and mentor, Professor Kronreif has made significant contributions to biomedical engineering education and interdisciplinary training. His work has had a substantial impact on the evolution of modern medical robotics and the development of next-generation surgical technologies.

Professor Maximilian Kückelhaus (MBA)

Surgeon specializing in plastic, reconstructive, and microsurgery

University Hospial Muenster, Germany

Professor Maximilian Kückelhaus (MBA) is an internationally recognized surgeon specializing in plastic, reconstructive, and microsurgery. His clinical and academic work focuses on advanced reconstructive techniques, including microsurgical tissue transfer, complex wound reconstruction, and the restoration of form and function following trauma, oncologic surgery, or congenital conditions. Professor Kückelhaus is widely respected for his contributions to surgical education and research, with a strong emphasis on innovation, anatomical precision, and evidence-based practice. As an experienced educator and mentor, he has played an important role in training young surgeons and advancing modern standards in reconstructive and microsurgery through teaching, publications, and international collaboration.

Professor Thomas Langø

Professor of Medical Imaging and Image-Guided Surgery

Professor Thomas Langø is an internationally recognized expert in medical imaging, image-guided surgery, and surgical navigation systems. His research focuses on the development and clinical application of advanced imaging technologies, including ultrasound-based navigation, augmented reality, and real-time image guidance to improve precision and safety in minimally invasive and complex surgical procedures. He has made significant contributions to the translation of imaging innovations from research to clinical practice, particularly in the fields of neurosurgery, abdominal surgery, and interventional procedures. Professor Langø has been actively involved in interdisciplinary research, collaborating closely with clinicians, engineers, and computer scientists to bridge the gap between technology development and patient care. As an experienced educator and mentor, Professor Langø has played a key role in training the next generation of researchers and clinicians in image-guided therapy. His work has had a substantial impact on the advancement of surgical navigation, intraoperative imaging, and technology-assisted surgery worldwide.

Professor Marius George Linguraru

President, MICCAI

George Washington University, Washington D.C, USA

Professor Marius George Linguraru is an internationally recognized leader in artificial intelligence and medical imaging, serving as Principal Investigator at Children's National Hospital and faculty member at the George Washington University in Washington, D.C. He is also the President of MICCAI, the world's leading society for medical image computing and computer-assisted interventions, reflecting his global influence in shaping the field. His pioneering research in AI-driven diagnostics for pediatric and rare diseases continues to transform precision medicine and the future of child-centered healthcare.

Professor Francisco Miguel Sánchez Margallo

Director, Jesús Usón Minimally Invasive Surgery Centre (JUMISC), Cáceres, Spain

Jesús Usón Minimally Invasive Surgery Centre. Cáceres, Spain

Professor Francisco Miguel Sánchez Margallo is a distinguished Spanish surgeon and biomedical researcher, internationally recognized for his expertise in minimally invasive, laparoscopic, and robotic surgery. He serves as Director of the Jesús Usón Minimally Invasive Surgery Centre (JUMISC), one of Europe’s leading institutions for surgical training, research, and innovation. His academic and clinical work focuses on the development and validation of advanced surgical technologies, translational research, and simulation-based education. Professor Sánchez Margallo has played a key role in advancing experimental surgery, surgical ergonomics, and preclinical evaluation of medical devices. As a respected educator and mentor, he is deeply involved in international training programs and collaborative research initiatives, contributing significantly to the dissemination of modern minimally invasive surgical techniques and to the improvement of patient safety worldwide.

Professor Juan A. Sánchez Margallo

Director of Minimally Invasive Surgery and Surgical Innovation

Jesús Usón Minimally Invasive Surgery Centre. Cáceres, Spain

Professor Juan A. Sánchez Margallo is an internationally recognized surgeon and researcher specializing in minimally invasive and laparoscopic surgery, surgical innovation, and experimental surgery. He serves as Director of Minimally Invasive Surgery and Surgical Innovation at the Jesús Usón Minimally Invasive Surgery Centre (JUMISC), where he leads cutting-edge translational research integrating clinical surgery, biomedical engineering, and advanced surgical training. His academic and clinical work focuses on the development, evaluation, and clinical validation of novel surgical devices, image-guided and robotic technologies, and advanced simulation-based training platforms. Professor Sánchez Margallo has played a pivotal role in advancing European standards in minimally invasive surgery through interdisciplinary research, education, and international collaboration. As a respected educator and mentor, he is deeply involved in postgraduate surgical training and the dissemination of innovative surgical techniques, contributing significantly to the improvement of patient safety, surgical outcomes, and technology-driven surgical education worldwide.

Dr. Michał Mikulski

Surgeon and Clinical Researcher

Dr. Michał Mikulski is a surgeon and academic clinician with expertise in modern surgical techniques and clinical research. His professional work focuses on the application of evidence-based surgical practice, optimization of patient outcomes, and the integration of innovative technologies into routine clinical care. His scientific interests include translational research, outcome assessment, and the development of structured approaches to surgical treatment and perioperative management. Dr. Mikulski is actively involved in clinical education and contributes to the training of medical students and young physicians. As a clinician and researcher, Dr. Mikulski is recognized for his systematic, interdisciplinary approach and commitment to high standards of patient care. Through his clinical and academic activities, he contributes to the continuous improvement of surgical practice and medical education.

Professor Zbigniew Nawrat

Pioneer of Polish Medical Robotics

Medical University of Silesia, Katowice, Poland

Professor Zbigniew Nawrat is a pioneer of Polish medical robotics and the creator of the celebrated Robin Heart surgical robot, the first European robot entirely designed for cardiac surgery. As a long-standing researcher and innovator at the Foundation of Cardiac Surgery Development in Zabrze, he has been instrumental in advancing telemanipulation systems, surgical simulation, and new robotic platforms for minimally invasive procedures. His work has shaped the development of medical technology in Central Europe, inspiring a new generation of engineers, clinicians, and innovators.

Professor Dr. Niels Oberbeck

President, Nuremberg Tech

Technische Hochschule Nürnberg Georg Simon Ohm

Professor Dr. Niels Oberbeck is the President of the Nuremberg Tech – Technische Hochschule Nürnberg Georg Simon Ohm, where he has been unanimously re-elected by the University Council for a second six-year term beginning in March 2026. A professor of structural engineering since 2000, he previously served as Dean of the Faculty of Civil Engineering and later as Vice President for Teaching before becoming President in 2020. During his leadership, the university has achieved major milestones including the founding of the Nuremberg School of Health, the implementation of the Hightech Agenda Bavaria, the development of the Ohm Innovation Center, expansion of internationalization, and the attainment of independent doctoral awarding rights.

Professor Francesco Saverio Papadia

Leading Italian Surgeon

University of Genoa, Italy

Professor Francesco Saverio Papadia is a leading Italian surgeon specializing in minimally invasive and robotic surgery, with particular expertise in upper gastrointestinal and bariatric procedures. His research focuses on surgical innovation, clinical outcomes, and the development of advanced techniques that improve safety and precision in complex gastrointestinal operations. Through his academic work, international collaborations, and dedication to surgical education, he has become a recognized figure in modern European minimally invasive surgery.

Professor Jarosław Śmieja

Specialist in Automation & Robotics

Silesian University of Technology, Gliwice, Poland

Professor Jarosław Śmieja is a specialist in automation, robotics, and intelligent control systems at the Silesian University of Technology, where he contributes to the development of advanced engineering solutions for medical and industrial applications. His research focuses on smart sensor integration, autonomous system design, and computational methods that enhance precision and reliability in complex technical environments. Through his interdisciplinary collaborations with clinical and engineering teams, he plays an important role in advancing next-generation robotic and AI-driven technologies in Poland and Europe.

Prof. Dr. Uwe Spetzger

Distinguished neurosurgeon and former President of iSMIT

Karlsruhe Institute of Technology, Germany

Prof. Dr. Uwe Spetzger is a distinguished neurosurgeon and former President of iSMIT, internationally recognized for his contributions to minimally invasive neurosurgery and surgical innovation. During his presidency, he actively promoted the integration of advanced technologies, navigation systems, and interdisciplinary collaboration in modern surgery. His work and leadership have significantly shaped the strategic vision of iSMIT at the intersection of medicine, engineering, and future surgical technologies.

Dr. Gaya Spolverato, MD, PhD

Oncologic surgeon and researcher

University Hospital of Padua, Italy

Dr. Gaya Spolverato, MD, PhD is an Italian oncologic surgeon and researcher with a strong focus on hepatobiliary and pancreatic surgery. She is internationally recognized for her work in outcomes research, quality of care, and multidisciplinary cancer management, with numerous high-impact scientific publications. Her research bridges clinical oncology, data-driven analysis, and surgical decision-making, contributing to the advancement of modern oncologic surgery.

Professor Manfred Stangl

Director Physician of the renal and pancreas transplant unit at the University Clinic of Munich

Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Germany

Professor Manfred Stangl is a highly respected surgeon and academic with extensive expertise in general and visceral surgery, with a particular focus on minimally invasive and advanced surgical techniques. His clinical work is centered on complex abdominal procedures, while his scientific interests include surgical innovation, optimization of operative workflows, and improvement of patient outcomes. Professor Stangl has been actively involved in academic teaching and postgraduate surgical training for many years, contributing significantly to the education of young surgeons and the development of structured training programs. He is known for his commitment to evidence-based practice and interdisciplinary collaboration. Through his clinical experience, research activity, and educational leadership, Professor Stangl has made substantial contributions to the advancement of modern surgery and to the continuous improvement of surgical standards.

Professor Hans Herbert Steiner

Leader in German Health Innovation

Paracelsus Medical University, Nuremberg, Germany

Professor Hans Herbert Steiner is a distinguished leader in German health innovation and hospital management, widely recognized for his contributions to modernizing clinical infrastructures and fostering strategic collaborations between medicine, academia, and industry. With a long-standing career in healthcare administration, he has been instrumental in developing forward-looking concepts for integrated care, digital transformation, and sustainable hospital development. His expertise and strategic vision make him a key voice in shaping the future of healthcare delivery in Germany and Europe.

Marcin Szeliga

Microsoft MVP in Data Platform & AI

Maria Curie-Skłodowska University, Lublin, Poland

Marcin Szeliga is one of Poland's most respected specialists in artificial intelligence, data science, and applied machine learning, known for his long-standing work as a Microsoft MVP in the field of Data Platform and AI. He is an influential educator, author, and speaker, whose books and lectures have shaped the development of data analytics and AI literacy across Central Europe. Through his expertise, consultancy, and commitment to promoting responsible AI, he plays a key role in advancing digital transformation and intelligent technologies in both industry and academia.

Professor Amiki Szold

Pioneer in Minimally Invasive & Robotic Surgery

Leading Israeli Surgeon

Professor Amiki Szold is one of Israel's leading surgeons and a pioneer in minimally invasive and robotic surgery, widely recognized for introducing advanced laparoscopic techniques across the region. Her clinical and academic work focuses on surgical innovation, patient safety, and the development of modern training systems for young surgeons. As a respected international educator and mentor, she has played a significant role in shaping global standards in minimally invasive surgery and advancing women's leadership in academic surgery.

Professor Călin Țiu

Professor of Neurology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest

Carol Davila University of Medicine, Bucharest , Romania

Professor Călin Țiu is a leading Romanian neurologist and academic, internationally recognized for his expertise in cerebrovascular diseases and stroke medicine. He serves as Professor of Neurology at the Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Bucharest and as Head of the Department of Neurology at Colentina Clinical Hospital, one of Romania’s major tertiary referral centers. His clinical and research activities focus on acute stroke management, secondary stroke prevention, and neurovascular diagnostics. Professor Țiu has played a key role in the development and implementation of modern stroke care systems in Romania, including the expansion of stroke units and evidence-based treatment pathways. As a respected educator, researcher, and member of numerous national and international neurological societies, he has contributed significantly to improving standards of neurological care and medical education at both national and European levels.

Karolina Tradel

Forbes-Recognized Professional

Healthcare, Technology & Organizational Innovation

Karolina Tradel is an emerging professional working at the intersection of healthcare, technology, and organizational innovation. She has been recognized by Forbes for her contributions to modern digital transformation and her ability to lead multidisciplinary teams in high-impact projects. With her analytical strengths and collaborative mindset, she supports next-generation medical innovation initiatives across both academic and clinical environments.

Professor Grzegorz Wallner

Former President, Polish Surgical Society

Medical University of Lublin, Poland

Professor Grzegorz Wallner is a leading Polish gastrointestinal surgeon and long-standing academic authority at the Medical University of Lublin, recognized for his expertise in colorectal surgery and surgical oncology. As a former President of the Polish Surgical Society, he has played a central role in shaping national surgical standards, education, and professional development in Poland. His extensive scientific work, leadership in academic surgery, and contribution to modern GI surgery have established him as one of the most influential figures in Central European surgical medicine.

Professor Dirk Wilhelm

Leading German Surgeon & Researcher

Technical University of Munich, Germany

Professor Dirk Wilhelm is a leading German surgeon and researcher at the Technical University of Munich (TUM), renowned for his contributions to surgical robotics, digital surgery, and intelligent intraoperative assistance systems. His work focuses on integrating advanced sensors, AI-driven guidance, and robotic technologies to enhance precision and safety in minimally invasive procedures. As one of Europe's key innovators in computer-assisted surgery, he bridges engineering and clinical practice, shaping the future of next-generation surgical platforms.

Professor Pietro Valdastri

Full Professor and Chair in Robotics and Autonomous Systems at the University of Leeds

University of Leeds, England, United Kingdom

Professor Pietro Valdastri is an internationally recognized researcher and engineer specializing in medical robotics and minimally invasive technologies. His work focuses on the development of robotic and magnetic systems for endoluminal and gastrointestinal interventions, with the aim of improving precision, safety, and patient outcomes in minimally invasive procedures. Professor Valdastri is widely known for pioneering advances in capsule robotics and robotic endoscopy, bridging engineering innovation with clinical application. As a leader in translational research, he has contributed significantly to the advancement of next-generation surgical and diagnostic technologies. He is also a dedicated educator and mentor, actively involved in training students and researchers and shaping the future of medical robotics through interdisciplinary collaboration and international research initiatives.

Felipe Yáñez

Specialist in Digital Communication & Immersive Technologies

VR & AI in Medicine

Felipe Yáñez MD is an emerging specialist in digital communication and immersive technologies, focusing on how VR and AI enhance the way medicine communicates, trains, and collaborates. He develops modern visual ecosystems and VR environments that make complex clinical concepts intuitive and accessible for both professionals and patients. In his work with VR goggles in Medicine and AI, he demonstrates how immersive 3D visualization and machine-learning–driven simulation are transforming surgical education, decision-making, and the future of intelligent healthcare.

Professor Krzysztof Zieniewicz

President, Polish Surgical Society

Medical University of Warsaw, Poland

Professor Krzysztof Zieniewicz is one of Poland's leading hepatobiliary and transplant surgeons, serving as a senior surgeon and academic leader at the Medical University of Warsaw. He is also the President of the Polish Surgical Society, reflecting his national leadership and long-standing contributions to the development of academic surgery in Poland. His expertise spans complex liver transplantation, oncologic liver surgery, and advanced minimally invasive approaches, establishing him as a prominent figure in European hepatobiliary and transplant surgery.