UBC School of Biomedical Engineering student receives Gold Medal Award from Engineers Canada

At this week’s 2025 Engineers Canada Awards Gala, UBC School of Biomedical Engineering student Neil Mitra was presented with the Gold Medal Student Award. Given annually to an undergraduate engineering student, the award recognizes outstanding leadership, contributions to society, and volunteerism.  

Recently completing his third year, Mitra balances his studies with running a biotechnology startup. Driven by the loss of a family member, he developed a prototype test strip that quickly detects heart attacks while still in high school. Shortly after arriving at UBC with a full scholarship, he launched Mitra Biotechnologies, where he works to create better diagnostic tools and systems for the healthcare industry. Mitra has received several fellowships and was most recently named a 2025 Cansbridge Fellow. 

In their profile of Mitra, Engineers Canada highlights that his admirable ambition in biomedical engineering is complemented by his interests outside the field. Mitra enjoys abstract painting and volunteers as a mentor at organizations that connect artists and scientists to build future technologies.  

Since 1973, the Engineers Canada Awards have recognized Canadian engineers and students for their exceptional dedication, innovation and leadership. Recipients are selected by the Engineers Canada Awards Committee based on nominations from peers and colleagues.