Dr. Esteban Denecken | Engineering | Best Researcher Award
Researcher from University of Los Andes, Chile
Esteban Jorge Denecken Campaña is a dedicated researcher and electrical engineer specializing in medical image processing and advanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) techniques. With a strong background in electrical engineering and ongoing doctoral studies, he has established a clear trajectory in biomedical imaging and computational analysis. His work centers on the development of novel methods for the simultaneous acquisition of water, fat, and velocity imaging using phase-contrast MRI. He has contributed to multiple peer-reviewed journals and has presented at prestigious international conferences including ISMRM. Esteban has collaborated with prominent institutions such as the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where he worked with the Quantitative Body MRI team. His expertise lies at the intersection of image processing, signal acquisition, and algorithmic development for clinical and biological applications. Esteban has also contributed to innovation in image analysis of biological materials and has actively supported undergraduate research and academic mentorship. His professional journey reflects both academic excellence and practical innovation. With solid experience in both academia and industry, he combines technical precision with a creative approach to engineering challenges, particularly in healthcare technologies. His participation in innovation programs and cross-disciplinary research showcases his commitment to translating scientific discovery into practical, impactful solutions.
Professional Profile
Education
Esteban Jorge Denecken Campaña holds a robust academic foundation in electrical engineering and biomedical image processing. He earned both his Bachelor’s and Professional Degree in Civil Electrical Engineering from Universidad de Los Andes in 2015. Currently, he is pursuing a Doctorate in Engineering Sciences with a specialization in Electrical Engineering at Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, where his doctoral research focuses on the development of advanced MRI techniques for simultaneous imaging of water, fat, and flow velocity. He has also enhanced his expertise through specialized training, including a Biomedical Imaging course at Northeastern University and practical EEG-fMRI training conducted at Clínica Las Condes. Additionally, Esteban completed the Innovation Academy program at Universidad de Los Andes, where he acquired valuable knowledge in innovation management, intellectual property protection, and science communication. His academic path demonstrates a balanced integration of theoretical knowledge and applied research in electrical engineering, with an increasing focus on medical and biological imaging. His academic excellence is complemented by a commitment to continual learning, evidenced by language training at the University of California, Davis, and participation in multiple research-related technical courses. His educational background positions him as a capable and well-rounded researcher in biomedical engineering.
Professional Experience
Esteban Denecken’s professional experience spans research engineering, doctoral research, and technical innovation within academia and industry. He is currently working as a Research Engineer at the School of Engineering, Universidad de Los Andes, where he develops image processing algorithms for analyzing biological samples, including paletted rich fibrin and microglial cells. As part of his doctoral research at Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, he has developed advanced techniques for MRI data acquisition, contributing significantly to the field of simultaneous imaging of biological structures and functions. He also completed a prestigious research internship at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where he collaborated with leading experts in quantitative MRI. Earlier in his career, Esteban served as an Assistant Scientist at the Advanced Center of Electrical and Electronic Engineering (AC3E), where he enhanced algorithms for displaying HDR content on standard screens. His experience also includes working as a Frontend Developer for Falabella Financiero, where he contributed to the development of digital platforms for credit services in Latin America. Esteban has held roles supporting undergraduate education and research and has served as a teacher assistant for various engineering subjects. His broad professional experience reflects a dynamic balance between academic research, software development, and technical mentorship.
Research Interests
Esteban Denecken’s research interests lie at the intersection of electrical engineering, medical imaging, and computational analysis. His primary focus is the development of novel MRI techniques, specifically aimed at the simultaneous acquisition of water, fat, and velocity imaging. This work enhances the diagnostic capabilities of MRI in clinical settings, particularly in cardiovascular and metabolic imaging. He is also deeply engaged in image processing techniques for analyzing the structural and functional properties of biological tissues. His research addresses challenges in respiratory gating, porosity analysis, and segmentation of microglial cells—topics that are critical in both clinical diagnostics and biomedical research. Esteban is particularly interested in leveraging signal processing, machine learning, and computational modeling to improve the accuracy and efficiency of image-based diagnostics. His interdisciplinary approach involves collaboration with experts in radiology, biomedical engineering, and computer vision. Through his research, Esteban seeks to bridge the gap between engineering innovation and healthcare application, contributing to advances in personalized medicine and non-invasive diagnostics. He continues to explore how computational tools can enhance imaging resolution, data interpretation, and automation in clinical workflows, highlighting his commitment to impactful, translational research in biomedical technology.
Research Skills
Esteban Denecken possesses a wide range of research skills, particularly in medical imaging, signal processing, and algorithm development. His technical proficiency includes the design and implementation of MRI-based techniques for simultaneous imaging of multiple parameters such as water, fat, and blood velocity. He has extensive experience with 4D flow MRI and respiratory gating, which are essential for capturing dynamic physiological processes. Esteban is skilled in biomedical image processing, including tissue segmentation, porosity analysis, and quantitative imaging. He is adept at developing custom algorithms for analyzing both structural and functional aspects of biological materials, using tools such as MATLAB and Python. His research contributions extend to high-impact journal publications and presentations at top-tier international conferences. Additionally, Esteban is experienced in interdisciplinary collaboration, having worked alongside radiologists, physicists, and engineers during his internship at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. He has also mentored undergraduate students, providing guidance in thesis work related to computer vision and image analysis. His ability to communicate complex technical concepts, combined with practical software development experience, further enhances his research effectiveness. Overall, Esteban demonstrates a rare combination of scientific rigor, software engineering capabilities, and collaborative agility.
Awards and Honors
While Esteban Denecken’s formal awards and honors are not explicitly listed, his academic and professional trajectory includes multiple indicators of distinction and recognition. His selection for a competitive internship at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, under the mentorship of renowned radiology expert Dr. Diego Hernando, reflects a high level of international recognition. Participation in leading international conferences such as ISMRM, where he has consistently presented his work since 2021, also underscores the academic community’s acknowledgment of his contributions. His doctoral research at Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, one of the most prestigious institutions in Latin America, further attests to his scholarly capabilities and potential. Additionally, Esteban’s role as a mentor to undergraduate thesis students and as a research engineer at Universidad de Los Andes shows that he is entrusted with responsibilities that reflect institutional confidence in his expertise and leadership. Through these roles and invitations to high-level collaborative projects, Esteban has positioned himself as a rising figure in the field of biomedical engineering. His consistent involvement in innovative academic initiatives, such as the Innovation Academy at UANDES, reinforces his proactive engagement in research and innovation ecosystems.
Conclusion
Esteban Jorge Denecken Campaña is a highly promising researcher with a focused expertise in medical image processing and electrical engineering. His academic foundation, hands-on research in advanced MRI techniques, and collaboration with leading international institutions demonstrate a strong alignment with the criteria of a Best Researcher Award. He has contributed to multiple peer-reviewed publications and regularly participates in global scientific forums, reflecting both scholarly productivity and engagement with the research community. His skills in biomedical imaging, algorithm development, and interdisciplinary collaboration are significant strengths that enhance the impact of his work. While he could further benefit from more visible international awards or patents to supplement his growing publication record, his current achievements clearly position him as a valuable asset to the research and academic community. Esteban’s innovative mindset, academic dedication, and technical expertise make him a strong contender for recognition as a best researcher. His work not only advances scientific understanding but also holds practical value in clinical diagnostics and health technologies. Therefore, he is well-suited for consideration for the Best Researcher Award and has the potential to make significant contributions to his field in the coming years.
Publications Top Notes
1. Simultaneous Acquisition of Water, Fat, and Velocity Images Using a Phase‐Contrast T2‐IDEAL Method*
-
Authors: Esteban Denecken, Cristóbal Arrieta, Julio Sotelo, Hernán Mella, Sergio Uribe
-
Year: 2025
2. Simultaneous Acquisition of Water, Fat, and Velocity Images Using a Phase‐Contrast 3p‐Dixon Method
-
Authors: Esteban Denecken, Cristóbal Arrieta, Diego Hernando, Julio Sotelo, Hernán Mella, Sergio Uribe
-
Year: 2025
3. Impact of Respiratory Gating on Hemodynamic Parameters from 4D Flow MRI
-
Authors: Esteban Denecken, Julio Sotelo, Cristobal Arrieta, Marcelo E. Andia, Sergio Uribe
-
Year: 2022