TRIBUNE NEWS NETWORK
Doha
Sidra Medicine, a member of Qatar Foundation, concluded the second day of its Precision Medicine and the Future of Genomics (PMFG 2024) Summit on Wednesday.
PMFG 2024 continued to deliver impactful discussions, uniting global experts to explore groundbreaking ideas in precision medicine and genomics. The summit featured dynamic sessions and a high-profile panel addressing the opportunities and challenges of building a robust biomedical innovation economy in Qatar.
A highlight of day two was the panel powered by Doha Debates, which explored the theme ‘Shaping the Future: Exploring the Boundaries of Human Advancement’.
Moderated by Al Jazeera’s Dareen Abu Ghaida, the discussion tackled the ethical and philosophical implications of advancing genomics and biotechnology.
Panelists included Jamie Metzl (Entrepreneur and Sci-Fi Novelist), Dr Sarah Chan (The University of Edinburgh, UK), and Dr Arash Rafii (Weill Cornell Medical-Qatar).
Dr Sarah Chan, Center for Biomedicine, Self and Society, Usher Institute, The University of Edinburgh, UK, said: “Genomic medicine offers unparalleled opportunities to revolutionize healthcare, but achieving genomic justice requires addressing inequalities embedded in our systems. By better understanding genome and its benefits for the long run, we can move toward personalized treatments tailored to individual needs, no matter how unique. This transformative shift must be supported by a fairer, more innovative approach to developing cures for the genomic era, ensuring that the benefits of these advancements are accessible to all.”
The second panel session chaired by Dr Iyabo Tinubu-Karch, CEO of Sidra Medicine, which convened thought leaders from academia, healthcare, and policymaking, focused on positioning Qatar as a global biomedical hub.
Panelists included Dr Francis Yeoh (National University of Singapore), Dr. Mohamed Adel Ghanem (Qatar Investment Authority), Dr. Slim Slama (World Innovation Summit for Health), Dr. Gordan Sanghera (Oxford Nanopore Technologies), and Dr. Peter Owotoki (Vitafluence.AI).
Dr Francis Yeoh, Professorial Fellow and Chairman, Innovation & Entrepreneurship – National University of Singapore and Advisor to the Qatar Research, Development and Innovation Council, said: “To build a successful biomedical ecosystem, there are six key components: strong government policies supporting innovation and business, access to cutting-edge healthcare markets, a growing pool of skilled talent, available funding through venture capital and government grants, robust support services like legal aid, startups, and accelerators, and a culture that embraces innovation. Qatar has all of these essential elements in place – positioning it to become a leading biomedical hub.”
Dr Mohamed Adel Ghanem, Head of Healthcare at Qatar Investment Authority, said: “This event highlights Qatar’s progress and its ambition to lead in biomedical innovation. With advanced facilities like those at Sidra Medicine and access to comprehensive patient datasets, Qatar is well positioned to attract global partners and accelerate impactful solutions. Focusing on local health needs and creating a supportive regulatory environment gives the country a competitive edge to address global healthcare challenges.”
Dr Slim Slama, CEO at the World Innovation Summit for Health, said: “Qatar is a small yet remarkably agile nation with a clear vision for public health, technology, and investment. In a short time, it has made significant contributions to global health dialogue and innovation. It’s essential to ensure these discussions are inclusive and address the unique needs of regions like ours, where challenges range from infectious diseases to chronic conditions.”
The final day of PMFG 2024 (Thursday) promises sessions on custom-made therapies, innovative clinical trials, and dialogue in gene therapy. Keynote speakers include Dr. Hakon Hakonarson (Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia), Dr. Chantal Mathieu (European Association for the Study of Diabetes), and Dr James Wilson (Gemma Biotherapeutics), who will explore actionable insights in genomics and rare disease treatments.
PMFG 2024 is held under the patronage of the Human Genome Organization (HUGO) and the Global Alliance for Genomics and Health, with Qatar Precision Health Institute as a strategic partner, the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia as a knowledge partner, Qatar National Bank as the Official Diamond Patronage and Sponsor, and Msheireb Museums as a community partner.
