April 14, 2019
Genomics is tackling complex biological challenges in health care, food security and various natural resource sectors. These transformative technologies are challenging the status quo and raising genuine questions about how our lives may be impacted in addition to how to ensure the responsible development and application for society’s benefit.
There is need for ongoing dialogue regarding the societal, economic, and ethical implications as new and powerful genomic solutions are applied – and it cannot wait until the scientific research is complete. Through collaboration, researchers examine these additional elements to inform the societal dimension of scientific research questions, research design and funding allocation. This can help research in genomics produce social benefits, address societal concerns and achieve public value.
In the context of Canada’s Genomics Enterprise, this research is referred to as GE3LS – Genomics and its Environmental, Economic, Ethical, Legal and Social aspects and is distinct from the anticipated socio-economic benefits of the project itself.
Genome BC has taken a leadership role through supporting genomics related social science and humanities research. Here are some of the leaders driving genomics social sciences projects:
