Santiago, Sep 24 (EFE).- Chilean engineer Daniel Hurtado, the creator of a mathematical model to study respiratory diseases, was selected as one the world’s 10 most promising scientists by the World Economic Forum.
The Pontifical Catholic University of Chile (UC), where Hurtado works, confirmed his selection in a statement mentioning that he was tapped during the Annual Meeting of the New Champions, known as the “Summer Davos,” in Tianjin, China.
Hurtado had been nominated as one of the world’s best scientists last April in the under-40 category for scientific and technological contributions related to his research.
His project to create the first mathematical modeling of a heart in Chile helps scientists and physicians better understand that organ and cardiovascular diseases, which is one of the main causes of death in the South American nation and in many other countries around the world, the UC said.
He also headed, along with a medical team from UC and the El Carmen Hospital in Maipu, interdisciplinary work promoting the development of a digital platform designed to reduce lung damage in critical patients receiving mechanical ventilation.
Hurtado’s selection was announced before an audience of outstanding researchers and experts from 100 countries in the areas of innovation, science and technology.
The recent WEF meeting focused on the role of innovation in the economy and society and the main issues discussed there included China’s economic prospects, science and technology, as well as the promotion of undertakings that are in the global public interest.