Archives:New Applications of the Computer: Thelma Estrin and Biomedical Engineering

Abstract

Profile of Thelma Estrin, former president of the IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society, former executive vice president ofthe IEEE, recipient of the Distinguished Service Citation and an honorary doctorate from the University of Wisconsin, and winner of the IEEE Haraden Pratt Award.  Estrin was an early champion of medical informatics — the application of computers to medical research andtreatment — in all its branches. In the 1970s Estrin argued for the recognition of a new branch of engineering, clinical engineering, concerned with the development and implementation of technology for health care. In the 1970s Estrin became active in the effort to increase the number of women in engineering. Her most important work was as chair of the Committee on Professional Opportunities for Women (COMPOW), a committee of the IEEE, from 1975 to 1980.

Citation and Link to Full Profile

Frederik Nebeker, "New Applications of the Computer: Thelma Estrin and Biomedical Engineering," in Sparks of Genius: Portraits of Electrical Engineering Excellence (Piscataway, NJ: IEEE Press, 1994), 201-231.

New Applications of the Computer: Thelma Estrin and Biomedical Engineering (pdf)