Annual Flagship Events
Signature Events That Define Our Community
Each year, the Biomedical Engineering Students’ Association (BESA) organizes a set of flagship events that form the cornerstone of graduate student engagement in Biomedical Engineering at the University of Toronto.
These events bring together students, faculty, alumni, and industry partners to celebrate research, support professional growth, and strengthen our community.
Three-Minute Thesis (3MT) Competition
The BESA Three-Minute Thesis (3MT) Competition challenges graduate students to present their research in three minutes or less to a non-specialist audience.
This event develops science communication skills, showcases the breadth of research within Biomedical Engineering, and provides a supportive environment for students to refine their presentation abilities.
Toronto Biomedical Engineering Conference (ToBE)
The Toronto Biomedical Engineering Conference (ToBE) is BESA’s annual, student-led conference that brings together graduate students, researchers, clinicians, and industry professionals from across the biomedical engineering ecosystem.
ToBE features keynote talks, panel discussions, research presentations, and networking opportunities focused on translating research into real-world impact.
Professional Development Series
BESA hosts a recurring series of professional development events focused on skills that support success in academia, industry, and alternative career pathways.
Topics may include career exploration, research communication, grant writing, teaching development, and industry engagement.
Social & Community Events
BESA’s annual social events are designed to foster connection, well-being, and a sense of belonging within the graduate student community.
These events provide informal opportunities for students to relax, meet peers across cohorts, and build lasting connections beyond research and coursework.