Published: Wednesday, August 12, 10:00 a.m. U.S. Eastern Time
Media Contact: Kara Flynn, 202.257.8424 press@ashg.org
ROCKVILLE, MD. – The American Society of Human Genetics (ASHG) has been awarded a $200,000 grant from the Illumina Corporate Foundation to support the expansion of ASHG’s Online Professional Education Program over the next two years. At a time when genetics and genomics research, knowledge, and health applications are expanding rapidly worldwide, the program will enable the Society to expand its reach and impact throughout the year. ASHG’s global member community will be able to engage directly to discuss novel discoveries, learn and enhance integration of ethical considerations in their research, and develop their careers.
“This digital expansion is part of ASHG’s strategic plan, and we are especially glad that the Illumina Corporate Foundation grant will enable us to expand ASHG’s online education programs for the genetics and genomics community at just the moment when they need it most due to restricted travel amid COVID-19,” said Anthony J. Wynshaw-Boris, MD, PhD, ASHG President. “For genetics and genomics to progress, it is very important that our community continues to have access to the latest discoveries and technologies, as well as information regarding professional practice and responsible research methods, career development strategies, and how to engage the public about the benefits of genetics and genomics. We thank the Illumina Corporate Foundation for its support.”
ASHG’s annual meeting, held each fall, is already among the most important and respected venues for announcing and discussing emerging scientific discoveries for human genetics and genomics. This new and separate year-round programming initiative approved by the Board of Directors in 2019 will offer genetics and genomics researchers online learning opportunities through webinars, online journal clubs, podcasts, micro-learning videos, short training courses, and other potential activities. Upcoming topics for digital events currently include the genomic epidemiology of the novel coronavirus, advances in bioinformatics, and multiple online journal clubs featuring recent articles from the American Journal of Human Genetics.
“At Illumina, our efforts to unlock the power of the genome mean little if people and places lack access to valuable genomic insights. Our corporate social responsibility program aims to reduce barriers to improve broad access and we are committed to working with partners like ASHG to expand the reach of genomics” said Jacquie Ross, Vice President of Communications, Investor Relations and Corporate Social Responsibility at Illumina. “We are thrilled to support this great work to connect with our communities and champion the power of genomics during the pandemic and beyond.”
The collaboration between ASHG and the Illumina Corporate Foundation reflects the organizations’ shared commitment to programs that advance science, strengthen scientific collaboration, and ensure support for researchers throughout their careers.
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About the American Society of Human Genetics (ASHG)
Founded in 1948, the American Society of Human Genetics is the primary professional membership organization for human genetics specialists worldwide. Its nearly 8,000 members include researchers, academicians, clinicians, laboratory practice professionals, genetic counselors, nurses, and others with an interest in human genetics. The Society serves scientists, health professionals, and the public by providing forums to: (1) share research results through the ASHG Annual Meeting and in The American Journal of Human Genetics; (2) advance genetic research by advocating for research support; (3) educate current and future genetics professionals, health care providers, advocates, policymakers, educators, students, and the public about all aspects of human genetics; and (4) promote genetic services and support responsible social and scientific policies. For more information, visit: http://new.ashg.org.
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