Scientific and technological advancements, particularly in the area of genomics research, continue to penetrate nearly all areas of society. Yet most of the public do not have access to the knowledge or tools necessary to understand how this new research may affect them, both in their lives and in their careers. As such, Genomics for Professionals, otherwise known as Genomics forTM, was developed as a series of educational programs designed to teach basic concepts in biology and genomics to professionals within different public sectors.

Since the inception of the Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, its slogan has been “where science meets society.” This highlights the institute’s deep commitment both past and present to communicate the research and discoveries happening at the IGB with the public, and promote scientific thinking to encourage a new diverse generation of scientists and science-informed citizens. “We established a comprehensive outreach program within a few years of opening the IGB, for several reasons,” said IGB Director Gene Robinson (GNDP).

There are several daunting challenges that our society has to collectively face in the coming decades, including climate change, food insecurity, and the spread of infectious diseases in an increasingly connected global community. Tackling these challenges will require scientifically-informed policies that also have to be shaped and welcomed by the public. To this end, the Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, in collaboration with faith groups, will organize a workshop series—Genomics for Faith Leaders—to create an open dialogue between the local community and our scientists.