The Southern Biomedical Engineering Conference (SBEC) series was conceived by bioengineering professionals from academia and industry located primarily in the South of the United States in 1982. The first Southern Biomedical Engineering Conference was held at the LSU Medical Center, Shreveport, Louisiana, in 1982. Since then it has been held annually in different cities, mostly in the southern United States, and has grown to become a global event that regularly attracts attendees from all over the world.  Submitted Papers are peer-reviewed, and those papers accepted for presentation and publication appear in the yearly issue of SBEC proceedings.

The SBEC serves a special purpose by emphasizing participation from young professionals and advanced students.  Since established investigators present papers in the same sessions with the students, it encourages a high level of professionalism as a standard for young investigators and students. Submission of papers from individuals from around the world is encouraged.  However, if their papers are accepted, an author or co-author must attend the conference to present their work and to interact with other attendees.  In keeping with the emphasis on student participation, the SBEC presents best paper and presentation awards to undergraduate, graduate, and professional students.