Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland’s strong bioengineering knowledge has won the Computing in Cardiology (CinC) scientific conference for 2027.
It will be the first time CinC is held in Australasia and only the third time it has taken place in the Asia Pacific region in 50 years. The conference will take place in September 2027 at the University of Auckland’s Owen G Glen Building. It is expected to attract some 350 delegates and deliver an economic impact of $925k to Auckland.
The conference focuses on computing in clinical cardiology and cardiovascular physiology to improve understanding, diagnosis and treatment of heart disease.
The bid was led by Associate Professor Jichao Zhao from the Auckland Bioengineering Institute at the University of Auckland, with support from Auckland Convention Bureau (ACB) which is a division of Tātaki Auckland Unlimited, and Tourism New Zealand Business Events.
Associate Professor Zhao says: “Since the 1980s the Auckland Bioengineering Institute has been involved in studying the electrical and mechanical functions of the heart. We have a very big international reputation. That played a large part in winning the bid,” he says. “Plus, the opportunities to experience New Zealand and its scenery and nature – a lot of people do want to come here.”
Head of ACB Ken Pereira says: We’re delighted to have secured the CinC scientific conference in 2027. Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland offers world-class innovation and capability in the bioengineering sector, so to bring delegates to our city is a valuable opportunity for discussion, advancing research opportunities and to make new connections. We look forward to showcasing Auckland’s excellence in this field and welcoming attendees to our unique and beautiful region.”
CinC provides a forum for cutting-edge developments at the intersection of clinical practice, cardiac electrophysiology and physiology, engineering, and fundamental research, including the growing role of artificial intelligence in diagnostic support.
Four groups at the Auckland Bioengineering Institute are currently working on cardiac research directly relevant to CinC – cardiac electrophysiology, heart mechanics, cardiac instrumentation, and the Physiome Project.
Associate Professor Zhao adds: “This conference plays an important role in nurturing young researchers, post doctorate students and Masters students. They’ll be learning through attending plenary talks and networking functions but will also have the opportunity to present at poster sessions and get guidance from senior researchers.”
Auckland is also home to a core of heart research knowledge including the NZ Centre of Research Excellence, Healthy Hearts for Aotearoa New Zealand - Pūtahi Manawa, which discovers and develops new early diagnostic treatments and strategies to improve heart health inequity; and the National Heart Foundation of NZ, a leading heart charity that funds cutting-edge research.
Tourism New Zealand Global Manager Business Events Penelope Ryan says: “By winning this conference, New Zealand will welcome an influx of international visitors in September, one of New Zealand’s off-peak months, and have a platform to showcase its research and innovation on a global stage.”