A Genome BC GE³LS Initiative:

GE³LS in Competition III: Strengthening Collaboration between Science and GE³LS

November 15, 2006

Although Competition III was similar to previous open competitions, it was unique in that it required that each funded science project contain an embedded research project exploring the Genomics-related Ethical, Environmental, Economic, Legal and Social (GE³LS) issues. On November 15, 2006, Genome BC invited GE³LS researchers from these embedded projects to present their research at an afternoon seminar aimed at profiling GE³LS research, and developing communication and networking within the science and GE³LS community. Attendees included members of embedded GE³LS research team and the large-scale GE³LS research project; scientists; graduate students; and other individuals interested in the success of science and GE³LS research collaboration.

Alan Winter giving his introduction to Genome BC

The conference opened with introductions by President and Chief Executive Officer of Genome BC, Dr. Alan Winter, member of the Board of Directors of Genome BC and Chair of its Genomics, Society and Ethics Advisory Committee, Dr. Harold Coward.

Panel One: (from l. to r.) Dave Secko, Valia Lestou, and Cheryl Power

Following these introductions were presentations by GE³LS researchers Cheryl Power, Valia Lestou, Dave Secko, Eric Jandciu (for Stephen J. Ward), Janet Atkinson-Grosjean, Peter Danielson, William Davidson (for Patricia Ghallaugher), Paul Wood and Sid Katz and Brian Hansen. Each of the speakers outlined the primary questions behind their research, including an overview of the methodological approaches they are using. The speakers were divided into three panel presentations, each followed by a question and answer period.

Panel 2: (from l. to r.) Peter Danielson, Janet Atkinson-Grosjean, Eric Jandciu and Natalie Henrich (Chair)

A key question that arose during the final discussion of the day regarded the iterative relationship between GE³LS and genomic science. Many participants wanted to know how the integration of GE³LS research and genetic science has changed not only the approach of GE³LS researchers, but also that of scientists. Most agreed that more opportunities for bringing science and GE³LS researchers together are needed if science and GE³LS collaboration and dialogue are to be improved.

Kyeema Burns

While learning about other GE³LS projects is an important step in this direction, it was clear from the seminar that more dialogue between these groups is still needed. Participants were enthusiastic about this unique opportunity to meet and exchange ideas with their colleagues and other GE³LS researchers, and many emphasized the significance and success of this first annual event.

Panel 3: (front, l. to r.) Brian Hansen and Paul Wood, (back, l. to r.) William Davidson, Sid Katz and Gary Bull (Chair)

This article was written by Natasha Damiano. Natasha is the GE³LS Research Assistant at Genome BC.

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