This is my first ISB President's blog, and I would like to use this space to share a little of my journey to this position. As with everything, there is a story behind it. I like histories, and hope you like too.
When I started my PhD program in 2006, Prof. Marco Vaz introduced me and other students to the ISB. I decided it was important to join the society. I even nominated myself for the position of student representative. While I was not elected, the following year I applied for an ISB Student Travel Grant, which funded three months of research at the University of Calgary in 2008 under the supervision of Prof. Darren Stefanyshyn. I think I still have somewhere in my office Prof. Brian Davis's handwritten note wishing me good luck with the trip, tucked alongside the travel check I received by mail. To the best of my knowledge, it was the first time a Brazilian student had received an ISB travel grant (perhaps even the first time one had applied).
During ISB 2013 in Natal, I participated in a workshop to discuss strategies for developing biomechanics in economically developing countries. I have very special memories of that activity and of the people I met there. In just a few hours, I learned so much listening to Prof. Andrea Hemmerich lead a debate on strategic planning, hearing about a project just starting in India from Rajani Kanade that has since grown into an institution now celebrating its 10th anniversary, and talking with Prof. Veronique Feipel, who wanted to learn everything possible about biomechanics activities in Brazil and South America. I also had a conversation with Prof. Ton van den Bogert, who mentioned his interest in nominating me for the ISB Executive Council. That was surprising, but changed everything.
Ten years ago, I was elected to the ISB Executive Council, and since then I have had the privilege of serving continuously. At ISB 2025 in Stockholm, I received the famous gavel that symbolizes the ISB presidency. Curious about this tradition, I asked Prof. John Challis about its origins. He told me that the gavel was not used at the founding meeting of ISB in 1973, but that it was first used at the 1975 congress likely introduced with Dick's well-known sense of humor.
But what should you expect from this new president? I am far from being considered a scientific reference point. My research focuses on educating students, helping them learn the importance of science and collaboration. Sometimes this results in published articles, but often it results in rejected manuscripts. Still, being a scientific reference is not only about publications - that part can actually be the easiest, I am sorry to say. The true challenge is using our experience to contribute to the global development of biomechanics. I am confident that not only I, but our entire current Executive Council, inaugurated in Stockholm, is ready to embrace this role, bringing diverse experiences and ambitious goals.
I come from a country where Carnival is the most anticipated celebration of the year, and from a continent that has faced challenges yet continually demonstrates resilience, creativity, and warmth. These qualities inspire me to encourage more colleagues to contribute actively and to help us build a future for biomechanics that is collaborative, inclusive, and innovative.
More than just reading this wonderful ISB Now issue, I hope more people realize the importance and impact of the ISB - not only for the development of science, but for people around the world. I am deeply grateful to everyone I have worked with in recent years, and I look forward to collaborating with a great team of elected Council members in the years ahead. Yes, I am nervous, and yes, I will face many challenges, but I know I am not alone. Our society is the largest biomechanics society in the world. So, let's make it happen together!
Never forget: when you become a member of a society like ISB, you are much more than just a name on a membership list. You are part of the actions we take - actions that truly change lives worldwide, creating opportunities for professionals and students, for institutions, and for communities alike.
I count on your support so we can do even more.
Renew your membership, or join us by becoming a member today at isbweb.org
Felipe Carpes
ISB President
Federal University of Pampa, Brazil
