Panel Discussion: The Birth Of Global Biobanking April 23, 2009

It’s 2009… Science and technology are ushering in a new era of population-based DNA research, requiring massive biological databases. Are we ready for all that this entails? This is the first of four forums hosted by a unique collaboration of scientists, health providers and local spiritual leaders on the subject of biobanks- repositories for blood and DNA- and the ethical, spiritual, and civil implications for society, particularly in Michigan. The goal is to spark a dialogue among members of the Ann Arbor community regarding the implications of biobank development. At this session, guest expert panelists from a variety of scientific, policy and religious perspectives will explore the roles and relationships that government, industry, and science play in the development of biobanks.

These forums are hosted and facilitated by the Life Sciences and Society Program of the University of Michigan’s School of Public Health, in conjunction with the Interfaith Round Table of Washtenaw County. The April discussions will be moderated by Susan King, Associate Director of the Life Sciences and Society Program and George Lambrides, Executive Director for the Interfaith Round Table of Washtenaw County.

Official Website: http://www.aadl.org/events/list?id=4351