Call for Papers on Genetic and Genomic Health: A one day Regional Meeting, November 28th 2012

Scientific advances in genetics and genomics have long promised to improve, or even revolutionise, human healthcare. It is hoped and expected that scientific progress will result in the production of technologies that will treat and prevent disease, and improve human health. Whilst the introduction and integration of such revolutionary genetic and genomic technologies, into both research and clinical practice, has perhaps been more modest than expected, the range and number of technologies and clinical applications that are being made available is steadily expanding.

Examples of genetic and genomic technologies that have been successfully applied in clinical practice include next generation sequencing, human induced pluripotent stem cells, synthetic biology, and non-invasive prenatal diagnosis (NIPD) to name but a few.

Alongside purported health benefits, these genetic and genomic technologies have been seen to raise a multitude of social benefits and concerns, and ethical issues have been raised that have implications that reach far beyond the discussion of health alone.

Through this meeting we aim to bring together students who are interested in the discussion of these issues, and who come from within a wide range of academic disciplines including law, philosophy, social science, medicine and psychology. This meeting will explore the possible impact of new and emerging health technologies on individuals, families and societies.  Discussions may include, but will not be limited to, explorations of legal and governance frameworks, theoretical and applied ethical insights, and qualitative and quantitative studies within the social sciences and psychology.

The day will consist of an introduction to the topic by an eminent clinician, full student presentations (25 mins) brief presentations of works-in-progress (15 mins) as well as a broader discussion that aims to involve all participants, and share insights that may emerge across disciplinary boundaries. All postgraduate students registered at a British university are eligible to participate. The conference is free, and we offer a limited number of travel bursaries, up to advance purchase price for rail or coach fare within the UK. Lunch and refreshments will be provided.

Proposals for 25 and 15 minute papers should include a brief abstract and title (max. 200 words) as well as the name, affiliation, and contact details (including email address) for author(s). Abstracts should be sent to workshop organiser Hannah Shipman ShipmanHE[at]cardiff[dot]ac[dot]uk by 1^st November 2012. Successful applicants will be notified by 7^th November 2012.