Concerted effort in advancing biodiversity genomics in the Pacific Rim

The inaugural symposium gathers experts to discuss ways to advance biodiversity genomics in the Pacific Rim.

Pacific Rim nations harbour a substantial proportion of the Earth’s nine million species, including several biodiversity hotspots. Genome analysis is now recognised as a fundamental tool in understanding this incredible biodiversity and assisting with its preservation. Although genome sequencing at scale is becoming more affordable, significant challenges remain in achieving the goal of sequencing all known species and deriving useful biological information from these data.

CUHK, in collaboration with the University of Sydney, has launched a Biodiversity Genomics Research Programme under the auspices of the Association of Pacific Rim Universities (APRU). Co-led by Prof. Jerome Hui of the School of Life Sciences, the initiative seeks to enhance cooperation and synergies among members in the field of biodiversity and related sciences.

A symposium on 30 November marked the launch of the programme and attracted over 70 participants from around the world. This inaugural event brought together leading genomics experts from Pacific Rim nations to discuss progress in this area, the challenges they face, and how collective action can advance biodiversity genomics in the region.

A core group engaging experts in the field is being formed to steer the development of the Biodiversity Genomics Programme. CUHK researchers who are interested to learn more about the programme are welcome to contact Ms. Amy Chan of the Office of Academic Links.

Watch the video to revisit the symposium: