The Chair of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Fahd bin Abdulaziz Al Saud for Medical Biotechnology at Arabian Gulf University (AGU) organised a scientific webinar titled "Genomics for Biodiversity: Exploring Africa's Genetic Wealth in the Age of Genomics." The event featured Dr Abdollah Sharaf, Senior Bioinformatician at SequAna - Sequencing Analysis Core Facility, University of Konstanz, Germany, and Associate Professor at Ain Shams University, Egypt.

The webinar highlighted the significance of biodiversity genomics in uncovering the genetic wealth of the African continent in light of rapid advancements in the age of genomics. It also emphasised the role of modern sequencing technologies and the development of comprehensive genetic databases to support scientific research and biodiversity conservation.

Dr Sharaf is a leading researcher in comparative genomics and genome evolution, with a focus on single-celled eukaryotes. He is actively involved in the African BioGenome Project, serving as Co-Chair of the Science, Technology, Monitoring, and Evaluation Committee, where he contributes to capacity building and the enhancement of genomic data across Africa.

The webinar was moderated by Dr Mohamed Belhocine, Assistant Professor and Head of the Department of Molecular Medicine at AGU. This event reflects the Chair’s commitment to fostering international scientific collaboration, attracting distinguished researchers, and advancing research in biotechnology and genomics. It is part of a series of seminars organised by the Chair to promote knowledge exchange and academic dialogue in advanced life sciences.

For her part, Dr Mai Sater, General Supervisor of the Scientific Chairs at AGU and Supervisor of the King Fahd bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Chair for Medical Biotechnology, affirmed the university’s dedication to supporting pioneering scientific initiatives that enhance research and innovation in genomics and biotechnology. She added that the scientific chairs will continue to strengthen international partnerships and build research capabilities, with several upcoming projects aimed at advancing knowledge and scientific development in the region.