April 07, 2014
Vernon, BC – Genome British Columbia is taking our community engagement program, “Bringing Genomics Home” on the road to Vernon. Community members are welcome to join UBC’s Dr. Leonard Foster for a lively and engaging presentation: “What’s the Buzz in Bee Biology?” Presented in conjunction with Okanagan College and the Okanagan Science Centre, attendees will learn about genomics and some of the most interesting aspects of bee biology, what threats bees are currently facing and the current research that is striving to improve bee health.
In 2005 Dr. Foster started his current position at the University of British Columbia in the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, where he is now an Associate Professor and the Director of the Centre for High-Throughput Biology. Dr. Foster’s research focuses on how bacterial and viral pathogens manipulate the cells of their hosts, including honeybees and humans. Dr. Foster has also been leading a large effort in western Canada to try to develop bees that are better able to resist diseases.
“We are delighted that Dr. Foster is able to bring his significant insight and knowledge to the people of Vernon and surrounding communities”, says Dr. Alan Winter, President & CEO of Genome BC. “Honeybees play a key role in our agricultural output and their health is something of significant concern.”
This free public talk begins at 7:30pm on Tuesday, April 8th at Okanagan College (Vernon Campus), Lecture Theatre, 7000 College Way. For more information and to register for this free event please visit: www.genomebc.ca/okanagan.
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