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DNA experts join forces in new facility
Edinburgh centres merge to support ground-breaking research

A new genomics facility at the University of Edinburgh promises to bring together experts for large-scale studies, to support ground-breaking research in both human and animal health, sustainable food production and the environment.

Based at the university, Edinburgh Genomics aims to be in the foreground of medicine personalisation, where treatment is tailored to the patient's genes.

Technology at the centre will will allow scientists to inform the development of new therapies by analysing and comparing hundreds of DNA samples from patients with certain diseases, identifying key genes involved.

Scientists will also aim to use the facility for ground-breaking agricultural research, pinpointing genes that may contribute to crop or animal disease.

Furthermore, it is hoped that the centre will enable environmental scientists to find out more about the natural world, allowing a rapid response to diseases posing a thereat to wildlife.

The university's new facilities represent a merging of its existing Edinburgh GenePool and ARK-Genomics, whose scientists and technologies will contribute to Edinburgh Genomics' work.

Professor Mark Blaxter, Director of Edinburgh Genomics, said: "Edinburgh researchers already lead the world in this area, and our facility is ready to support more of this ground-breaking work.

"We will work with clinicians to apply new knowledge in the clinic, with farmers and breeders trying to improve our food supply, and with scientists aiming to understand the genetic underpinnings of how our ecosystems function."

The new centre will capitalise on the university's expertise in supercomputing and informatics to analyse huge amounts of data generated by large DNA studies.

According to the university, Edinburgh Genomics aims to be a leading provider of training, service quality and support for its collaborators.

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Animal Medicines Amnesty returns this November

News Story 1
 Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty.

Organised by the Responsible Use of Medicines Alliance Companion Animal and Equine (RUMA CA&E), the initative is supported by a range of cross-sector organisations.

Practices are encouraged to use the campaign to engage the whole practice team and raise awareness of the safe disposal of medicines with clients. Learn how your practice can get involved at rumacae.org.uk 

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News Shorts
APHA launches free virtual work experience programme

The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), in collaboration with Springpod, has launched a free virtual work experience programme, giving young people across the UK the chance to explore careers dedicated to protecting animal and plant health.

The on-demand programme offers a unique insight into career opportunities within APHA, showcasing how students can contribute to tackling some of the UK's most critical biosecurity and environmental challenges.

Designed for students aged 13 and over, the course includes more than 10 hours of engaging content featuring real-life industry insights, scenario-based challenges, and practical guidance on applying for jobs. To register for the course, visit the APHA website.