September 21, 2005 Source: Lakehead University:
http://communications.lakeheadu.ca/news/?id=198 Biotechnology Research Symposium and Workshop Lakehead U bringing together research community to share ideas (Thunder Bay – September 21, 2005) As part of National Biotechnology Week, Lakehead University’s Research Program in Biotechnology is hosting a Research Symposium and Workshop on Tuesday, September 27 at 11 a.m. in the Faculty Lounge. “When people think of Biotechnology, they think DNA and genetic engineering. However, biotechnology encompasses much more than that,” says Dr. Heidi Schraft, coordinator of the Symposium, faculty member in the Department of Biology, and Canada Research Chair. “Biotechnology uses living organisms, or cellular and bio-molecular processes, to make new products, solve problems, and provide new methods of production.” The speakers at the Symposium are: Dr. Johanshir Golchin, Director, Goltec Inc.: "An Idea That Has Always Been At Work: The Application of Biotechnology for the Remediation of Contaminated Soils and Groundwater"; Dr. David Layzell, CEO and Research Director, BIOCAP Canada Foundation, “Biosphere Solutions for Climate Change and Clean Energy: Opportunities and Challenges in the Forestry Sector”: and Mike Paice, Environmental Scientist, PAPRICAN, “Biotechnology Applications in Pulp and Paper Manufacturing.” The Symposium and Workshop are designed to bring together Thunder Bay’s research community to showcase what biotechnology can be, and to broaden the vision of biotechnology in the community. During the workshop, ideas and possible opportunities for biotechnology will be discussed. As well, the main ideas brought forth at the Symposium will help guide research and curriculum in the Research Program in Biotechnology at Lakehead U. MEMBERS OF THE MEDIA: Dr. Schraft is available for interview on the Symposium day from 10:45 a.m. to 11 a.m. only. Interviews before this date are available as well. Please call Marla Tomlinson at 343-8177 to set up an interview or if you plan on attending the Symposium. Research Program in Biotechnology at Lakehead U The program aims to effectively combine the focus and expertise of faculty in both science and engineering into two interdisciplinary areas of biotechnology: Environmental Biotechnology and Molecular Biotechnology. A symposium will be held during National Biotechnology Week to showcase the breadth and depth of opportunities that the new Biotechnology Program presents for Northwestern Ontario. Networking at the symposium will both broaden and strengthen Lakehead University’s future involvement in regional biotechnology initiatives and pave the way to new partnerships with industry and the community. Biotechnology at Lakehead U There are over twenty faculty members actively involved in Biotechnology research at Lakehead University. These faculty members also employ graduate students and postdoctoral fellows, giving them hands-on training in this developing field. The faculties involved in Biotechnology research include Science and Environmental Studies, Engineering, and Forestry, with partnerships between the Northern Ontario School of Medicine and the Cancer Centre. Research on environmental issues in Northern resource sectors, primarily pulp and paper processing and mining. Biotechnology is a target area for a new research building at Lakehead University. National Biotechnology Week is a celebration of the imagination and innovation of Canadian scientists from Vancouver to St. John's. Biotechnology is improving the quality of life for Canadians through healthier foods, a cleaner environment and treatments for a great many debilitating illnesses. -30- Contact: Marla Tomlinson, Communications Officer, Lakehead University, 343-8177 or 472-9113
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