BIEN was launched in 2003 as the first international interdisciplinary conference organized by the Association of Korean Woman Scientists and engineers (KWSE).
In its early years, BIEN aimed to promote interdisciplinary research and share cutting-edge technologies across the fields of Bio, Information, Environment/Energy/Earth, Nano, and Space technology. Through BIEN, KWSE also seeks to strengthen the global capacity of women in science and technology by building international networks and partnerships for collaboration among domestic and international scientists and engineers.
As the conference has grown, its scope now spans all fields of science and technology.
BIEN has been held in Daejeon (2003), Busan (2009), Seoul (2013 and 2017), and Daejeon again (2021). BIEN 2021 welcomed approximately 480 participants (387 online and 93 in person) from 29 countries under the theme: “Women Scientists and Engineers Leading the Future from the New Normal.”
| Category | Date | Venue | Theme |
|---|---|---|---|
| BIEN 2003 | Nov 13-16, 2003 | Pai Chai University, Daejeon, Republic of Korea | The Converging of Bio, Information, Environment, Energy, Space and Nano Technology |
| BIEN 2009 | Aug 27-29, 2009 | Westin Chosun Hotel, Busan, Republic of Korea | Women in Green Technology towards a Sustainable Asia |
| BIEN 2013 | Aug 22-24, 2013 | Sheraton Grand Walkerhill Hotel, Seoul, Republic of Korea | KW-Leadership, SE-Future (Korean Woman’s Leadership in Science & Engineering and Future) |
| BIEN 2017 | Aug 31-Sep 2, 2017 | The Plaza, Seoul, Republic of Korea | Women Scientists and Engineers Shaping the Future |
| BIEN 2021 | Aug 18-20, 2021 | Online & Hotel ICC Daejeon, Republic of Korea | Women Scientists and Engineers Leading the Future from New Normal |
