The first Genetic & Biotechnology Conference in the UAE will feature discussions from 11 leading figures in genetics research, including local and international professors, doctors, and government representatives.

The event is being organised by UAE Genetic Disease Association (UAEGDA), the sole non-profit genetics organization in the UAE, in coordination with Zayed University at the university’s Dubai campus on December 21.

The conference will be followed up by two-day PCR Technology workshop on December 22 and 23 at the UAEGDA laboratory in Dubai, which will provide local students with an insight into the newest practices being used in the field. Due to nature of the practical training workshop on DNA techniques and limited space, the event will be offered only to Zayed University students this time, a statement said.

An audience of about 200 is expected to attend the conference, including BS and MS students from Zayed University, Higher College of Technology, Manipal University, and various other institutions across the UAE who now have programmes in genetics and biotechnology.

Conference speakers will review a number of relevant topics in the field today, including the genetic basis of cancer, overcoming common genetic blood disorders in the UAE, and recent advances in genetic technologies.

“UAEGDA wanted to support an event in which local practitioners could come together to share their experiences and learn from one another,” said Dr Maryam Matar, executive director of the UAEGDA.

“We’ve also invited leading scholars from around the world to give their own input and inspire new discussions within the local scene.”

Dr Michael Allen, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Zayed University, said: "This event is all about inspiring students to think creatively about science and society, and to see themselves as part of a global community of practitioners working in similar fields.”

Dr Sulaiman AlJassim, vice-president of the university, said that this scientific initiative contributes to the enhancement of scientific central and important role played by the specialists to respond to epidemics and diseases.

He added that the event will also raise awareness for prevention and treatment methods, spreading and promoting medical knowledge and awareness, mainly that the world is being challenged by serious diseases and viruses.

Dr Marco Bacanti, executive director of DuBiotech, said: “The role of biotechnology and applications in genetics brings compelling results for a better quality of life, which makes the first Genetic & Biotechnology Conference in the UAE quite relevant.”

“As a key destination for the life sciences, DuBiotech is delighted to support the conference that will encourage fruitful discussions among experts, industry professionals and students, while adequately highlighting the region’s fast developing industry,” Dr Bacanti added. – TradeArabia News Service