For Immediate Release: Tuesday, July 23, 2024, 12:00 pm U.S. Eastern Time
Media Contact: Kara Flynn, 202.257.8424, press@ashg.org
ROCKVILLE, MD - The American Society of Human Genetics (ASHG) launched the ASHG Industry Roundtable earlier this year with Illumina, PacBio, and Complete Genomics joining as founding members. The Industry Roundtable provides a forum for ASHG and industry representatives to share ideas and resources with the human genetics and genomics research community.
In May 2024, the founding group met to discuss ways the Society and industry might collectively work together to speed discovery and application of genetics and genomics. This includes engaging the public in genetics and genomics research as well as growing and supporting the genetics and genomics workforce. As a result of these discussions, the Roundtable collectively determined several key ideas and recommendations that ASHG will consider as future programs or initiatives.
Ideas include providing needed education for non-geneticists, communicating the benefit of genomics to the public through patient stories, providing members with professional guidance that enhances research uniformity, and building a genomics workforce pipeline in collaboration with other organizations.
“Through alliance with our industry partners, ASHG is fostering collaboration that effectively enhances the impact of scientific research and advocates for outcomes-driven innovations in the field,” said ASHG President Bruce D. Gelb, MD. “The Roundtable is a vital conduit for exchanging knowledge and addressing global challenges through collective expertise and shared goals.”
According to Dr. Gelb, the Roundtable broadens the scope of discussion to actively involve more companies and ASHG leaders, and lead to concrete actions that address identified challenges and opportunities to advance the field of human genetics and genomics to the benefit of people everywhere. “By collaborating with ASHG, industry makes connections and gains knowledge and insight,” he said.
ASHG has long recognized the value of partnering with industry on projects of common interest. With the launch of this program, the Society builds upon the former ASHG Impact Partnership program which focused on joint efforts to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion in genetics and genomics.
The Roundtable will meet next in the fall at ASHG’s 2024 Annual Meeting in Denver, Colo. to review progress and discuss new topics and ideas.
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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 community of 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 and Human Genetics and Genomics Advances; (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://www.ashg.org.
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