[By NBC-1TV E. H Kim]World-renowned female electrophysiologists Professor Ellen Hoffmann and Professor Jeanne E. Poole are scheduled to chair the BIOTRONIK supported EPIC Alliance (Electrophysiologist International Community) scientific session at the Cardiostim 2012, 18th World Congress in Nice, France, on June 15.

The session will include electrophysiology-related presentations made by leading female physicians and researchers from around the world. Topics will include “Atrial Fibrillation Ablation: Beyond Pulmonary Vein Isolation” and "Controversies in Lead Extractions for
Noninfectious Indications."

Sponsored by BIOTRONIK, the EPIC Alliance is a professional organization of female electrophysiologists founded in 2008 and aims to address the small number of women working in the field by actively strengthening their presence through its various programs, internationally conducted meetings and clinical study opportunities. The group currently consists of 80 female electrophysiologists from around the globe and is the only alliance of its kind for women working in the field of electrophysiology.

“There is an alarming underrepresentation of women in electro-physiology,” said Professor Ellen Hoffmann, member of the EPIC Alliance steering committee. “With the EPIC Alliance, we are creating a community of collaboration where women can share their work-related experiences and have access to a wide variety of professional opportunities.”

“Active mentoring of up-and-coming electrophysiologists by experienced practitioners within the EPIC Alliance is just one of the many activities members can participate in,” continued Professor Hoffmann. “Our membership finds this type of advice and guidance, as well as our international training opportunities, invaluable and we are very grateful to BIOTRONIK for recognizing the importance of the EPIC alliance and supporting us in our unique efforts.”

“As one of the world's leading medical device companies, we believe it is our responsibility to promote research and science,” commented Christoph Böhmer, Managing Director of BIOTRONIK. “We have supported the EPIC Alliance for several years now, because it is a great way for women working in the field of electrophysiology to foster connections within the profession and create a network that will enrich and diversify the profession.”